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What Is Moroccan Cuisine Like?
Moroccan cuisine is an absolute gem, often overlooked by many. Its rich flavours, aromatic spices, and vibrant colours will leave your taste buds fulfilled. Moroccan food has tons of dishes that are extremely rich in flavour! Here's a run down of some iconic Moroccan plates that left a mark on my palette.
8 Foods To You Must Try In Morocco
1. Tajine
A tajine is a type of slow-cooked stew or casserole that originated in North Africa. It is made by combining meat and vegetables with spices, then simmering slowly in a shallow, terracotta pot with a conical lid. Traditionally, tajines are cooked over an open flame, but they can also be made in a slow cooker or oven.
Tajines are available in a diverse range of styles, including beef and prunes, chicken and lime, lamb, kefta, and vegetable varieties, among others. If you’re by the coast in cities like Essaouira, you even get the opportunity to order fish tajines and calamari tajines. Each option is undoubtedly worth trying!
2. Couscous
Couscous is a high-protein grain that is often served with meat and vegetables mixed in. It’s a staple in Moroccan cuisine and is extremely delicious. The light, fluffy texture of couscous pairs perfectly with the rich flavours of the accompanying stew or meat. Personally, couscous is one of my favourite grains out there!
3. Batbout
Batbout is a type of Moroccan flatbread, similar to pita, that is often enjoyed as a street food. It can be filled with a variety of ingredients like meats, cheeses, or vegetables. Batbout is soft, fluffy, and perfect for a quick snack or a light meal.
4. Mint Tea
Mint tea is a classic Moroccan beverage and an integral part of the culture. You'll see people sipping Moroccan mint tea at restaurants and cafes everywhere. It's extremely delicious and refreshing. Be sure to try it at Foundouk Gargaa if you’re around the medina.
5. Pastilla
Pastilla is a traditional Moroccan dish that consists of a savory pie made with thin layers of dough. I tried the chicken variation and the seafood variation when I was there. I was not a fan of the chicken flavour as it had a sweet taste to it, however, the seafood pastilla was one of the best things I ate during my trip.
6. Harira
Harira is a traditional Moroccan soup made with tomatoes, lentils, chickpeas, and lamb. It’s a staple during Ramadan but enjoyed year-round. Its hearty, rich flavour is reminiscent of Indian daal if you've ever had that.
7. Kefta
Kefta are Moroccan meatballs, which can be served dry or as part of a tajine dish with a spiced tomato-based sauce. They are typically made from ground beef or lamb, mixed with spices and herbs.
8. Brochettes
Brochettes are skewers of marinated meat, typically lamb, beef, or chicken, grilled to perfection. The marinade usually includes a mix of spices, garlic, herbs, and olive oil, giving the kebabs a rich and savoury flavour. They are often served with fresh bread and a side of tangy dipping sauce.
And That's A Wrap!
Moroccan cuisine is a journey all on its own across all its spiced tajines and the refreshing sips of mint tea in a busy medina. Each dish has its own story, flavour, and place in Moroccan culture. Make sure to get a taste of all these iconic dishes when you’re in Morocco. Your taste buds – and maybe even your soul – will thank you!