Combining the best of Mediterranean, Arabic and traditional Berber cuisine, Morocco promises you a feast for the senses. From its heart-and-soul-warming soups to its tantalizing tagines and street food, here are some of the best dishes to be enjoyed.
B’Stilla
The Moroccan take on the simple pie sees layers of paper thin pastry holding a decadent meat filling. Across the country you’ll find plenty of chicken varieties but the town of Fez is famed for its pigeon-filled B’stillas. Spiced with saffron and cinnamon, these pocket-sized snacks are finished with a liberal dusting of icing sugar and cinnamon.
Couscous
No trip to Morocco would be complete without sampling its most renowned side dish. This fine wheat pasta is traditionally hand-rolled and quickly steamed over a hearty stew. Its light texture compliments the rich meat perfectly, best served with a sweet raisin preserve.
Zaalouk
Many meals in Morocco began with several cooked vegetable salads served alongside warm pitta bread. Zaalouk is amongst the most popular — a smoked combination of eggplant, tomatoes, garlic, olive oil with a pinch of spices. With surprisingly few ingredients, this dish packs a powerful flavor profile.
Tagine
Coming in all shapes, sizes and flavor combinations, the classic tagine is actually named after the clay pot which the stew cooks in. Bubbling away at street side eateries and fine dining restaurants, this dish is enjoyed by the masses. Lamb is the popular choice and often includes a myriad of dried fruits, chopped tomatoes, spices and flaked almonds.
Harira
Visit Morocco during the holy month of Ramadan and you’ll more than likely come across this traditional soup. Many break the fast at sunset with this broth of tomatoes, lamb, chickpeas and lentils. Soak up the flavors with the sweet pretzel bread known as “chebakia.”
Chermoula
Morocco’s seafood is amongst the finest in the world, made even better by their signature Chermoula marinade. A combination of herbs and spices, with heaps of fresh cilantro, this paste is added to a variety of dishes. For an authentic taste, order grilled marinated fish cooked over coals and use chermoula as the dipping sauce.
Makouda
The perfect pick-me-up during a day of hectic sightseeing, Makouda can be found across many of the street food vendors in Morocco. These deep-fried potato balls are incredible simple but addictively moreish. Spice lovers can enjoy them with the tangy harissa dip.
B’ssara
A local staple in the northern regions of Morocco, this soup of dried, split fava beans is commonly served for breakfast. Garnished with cumin and served with freshly baked bread, it’s the perfect start to your day.
With so many affordable all-inclusive holidays to countries like Morocco, there’s never been a better time to sample this beautiful cuisine. Indulge in these classic dishes and you’ll enjoy the true flavors of a beautiful country.
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