Argan oil, believed to be one of the rarest oils in the world, is a robust, nutty oil made from the nuts of the argan tree endemic to Southwestern Morocco. Traditionally in Morocco, argan oil is used in tajines, couscous, salads, grilled tomatoes and other Moroccan dishes. It is valued for its nutritive, cosmetic and numerous medicinal properties.
This oil is naturally high in vitamin E and essential fatty acids, making it an excellent dietary supplement. It is also very good for the skin; vitamin E can help smooth cracked hands, knees, and elbows while nourishing the skin, and essential fatty acids can promote healthy skin as well. These benefits have made argan oil popular in cosmetics for centuries in Morocco and beyond, and small vials of the costly oil are often on offer at high-end cosmetic stores.
- 250 g Crimini mushroom or portobello, thickly sliced
- 1-2 clove Garlic, sliced
- 150 ml Vegetable stock
- 180 g Tagliatelle
- 1 tbsp Parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp Lemon rind, finely zested
- 1 tbsp Argan oil to serve
- Grated Parmesan to serve
- Put the sliced mushrooms, garlic and vegetable stock into a skillet, bring to the boil and simmer for until the liquid has nearly all evaporated and the mushrooms are soft, about 5 minutes.
- Meanwhile, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to pack instructions. Drain and toss with the mushrooms, parsley and lemon zest. Season to taste and drizzle the argan oil over and serve with grated Parmesan.