Prepare to be blown away by the intoxicating flavors of Moroccan cuisine

Welcome to the land of enchantment, where the aroma of spices and the sizzle of tagines wafts through the air. Morocco, nestled in the northernmost part of Africa, is a treasure trove of diverse gastronomic delights bearing Arabic, Berber, Moorish, and Mediterranean influences. 

Spices & flavors: The soul of Moroccan cuisine 

At the heart of Moroccan cuisine lies an intricate dance of spices. Wander through the bustling souks (markets), and your senses will be overwhelmed with the vivid colors and intoxicating scents of saffron, cumin, ginger, cinnamon, paprika, and more. These spices not only infuse Moroccan dishes with robust flavors but also represent the country's historical trade connections with other civilizations. 

The irresistible allure of the tagine 

You can’t talk about Moroccan cuisine without mentioning the iconic tagine. Named after the traditional earthenware pot in which it is cooked, the tagine is a slow-cooked stew that showcases a perfect marriage of flavors. Whether it's tender lamb, succulent chicken, or hearty vegetables, the tagine presents an array of choices for every palate. The inclusion of dried fruits like apricots, prunes, or raisins adds a delightful sweet-tangy contrast to the savory notes. 

Couscous: A time-honored tradition 

Couscous is another staple of Moroccan cuisine, and its preparation is a meticulous and time-honored tradition. Fine grains of semolina wheat are steamed to perfection, creating a fluffy, light texture that serves as the perfect base for various meats, vegetables, and aromatic broths. Couscous Fridays are a customary affair, with families coming together to enjoy this beloved dish. 

Street food bliss 

From the bustling city of Marrakech to the coastal town of Essaouira, the tantalizing array of street food options will leave you spoilt for choice. Sink your teeth into crispy and savory Moroccan pastries like "briouats" (stuffed triangles) or "msemen" (flaky square-shaped pancakes). Or indulge in the comforting goodness of "harira," a hearty soup bursting with lentils, chickpeas, tomatoes, and aromatic spices, that’s often served during Ramadan or as a special treat. 

Teatime: Moroccan style 

Tea culture in Morocco is an integral part of daily life and an essential gesture of hospitality. Sip on traditional mint tea, a sweet and fragrant blend of gunpowder green tea, fresh mint leaves, and generous amounts of sugar. It's customary to pour the tea from a height to create a frothy top, symbolizing the art of pouring and the warm welcome extended to guests. 

A cornucopia of sweets and pastries 

Moroccan desserts are a celebration of flavors and textures. Delve into the world of "pastilla," a unique blend of sweet and savory featuring layers of flaky pastry filled with pigeon meat (yes, you read that right), almonds, and a dusting of powdered sugar and cinnamon. Satisfy your sweet tooth with "m'hanncha" or snake cake, a coiled almond pastry with orange blossom water and cinnamon. For those seeking a lighter option, "sellou" is a delightful treat made from roasted sesame seeds, almonds, and honey. 

Fruits of the sea 

With a lengthy coastline stretching along both the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea, Morocco offers a bounty of fresh seafood delights. And nowhere is this more evident than in the picturesque fishing town of Essaouira, where you can savor an assortment of grilled fish, octopus, and calamari, seasoned with Moroccan spices and served with a side of zesty salads. 

Morocco’s cuisine is truly outstanding – in fact, many of our travelers list it as their number one highlight. Experience it for yourself with SA Expeditions. Peruse our most popular Morocco itineraries here or speak to a Destination Expert about crafting your own.