The Best Things to Eat and Drink in Morocco: Must-try Moroccan Food and Drinks

When planning your Morocco tours, immersing yourself in the rich culinary tapestry of Morocco is an essential experience. From savoring traditional Moroccan foods like tagine and couscous to sampling refreshing drinks in Morocco, the journey through Moroccan cuisine is tantalizing and rewarding. In this guide, we delve into the must-try Moroccan foods and drinks, providing insights to enhance your culinary adventure in Morocco.

Must Try Street Food Stall and Traditional Foods of Morocco

Tagine

A tagine is a slow-cooked stew that is a hallmark of Moroccan cuisine. It is traditionally prepared in a cone-shaped clay pot, also called a tagine. The dish consists of tender meat (such as lamb, chicken, or beef), poultry, or fish, along with an array of vegetables, dried fruits, and Moroccan spices like cumin, ginger, cinnamon, and saffron. The unique design of the tagine pot allows the ingredients to simmer and meld together, resulting in a rich, flavorful dish with tender meat and aromatic vegetables.

Where to Try It: You can experience the authentic flavors of tagine at local restaurants, street food stalls, or traditional markets (souks) throughout Morocco. Cities like Marrakech, Fes, and Casablanca are renowned for their diverse culinary scene, offering a wide variety of tagine dishes to suit every palate.

Bastilla (Pastilla)

Bastilla, also known as pastilla, is a quintessential Moroccan dish that beautifully blends sweet and savory flavors. It is a delicately spiced pie made with thin layers of phyllo pastry, which encase a filling of shredded chicken or pigeon, almonds, eggs, and a medley of aromatic spices such as cinnamon, saffron, and ginger. The pie is then baked until golden and crispy, and traditionally dusted with powdered sugar and cinnamon before serving.

Where to Try It: Bastilla is a specialty of Moroccan cuisine and can be found in restaurants specializing in traditional Moroccan dishes, particularly in cities like Fes and Rabat. These cities boast establishments renowned for their authentic preparation of this iconic dish, offering a delightful culinary experience for visitors.

Couscous

Couscous is a staple grain dish that holds a significant place in Moroccan culinary tradition. It consists of tiny steamed balls of semolina, which are fluffy and light in texture. Couscous is typically served as a base for a hearty stew made with a variety of vegetables (such as carrots, zucchini, and chickpeas) and meat (such as lamb, chicken, or beef). The dish is seasoned with a fragrant blend of Moroccan spices like cumin, paprika, and turmeric, resulting in a flavorful and satisfying meal.

Where to Try It: Couscous is widely available in restaurants across Morocco, ranging from casual eateries to fine dining establishments. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culinary scene by sampling couscous dishes at traditional Moroccan homes through homestay experiences, where they can enjoy the hospitality of Moroccan hosts while savoring this beloved dish.

Zaalouk

Zaalouk is a classic Moroccan salad that showcases the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean. It is made from cooked eggplant and tomatoes, which are mashed together to create a chunky texture. The mixture is then seasoned with garlic, olive oil, and a blend of Moroccan spices such as cumin, paprika, and coriander. Zaalouk is often served as a side dish or appetizer, accompanied by crusty bread or as a topping for couscous or grilled meats.

Where to Try It: Zaalouk is a popular dish in Morocco and can be found in traditional Moroccan restaurants, cafes, and street food stalls. Visitors can indulge in this flavorful salad while exploring the bustling markets and vibrant neighborhoods of cities like Marrakech and Chefchaouen, where it is commonly offered as part of the local cuisine.

Mechoui

Mechoui is a traditional Moroccan dish that celebrates the rich flavors of slow-roasted lamb. The dish is prepared by marinating a whole lamb in a mixture of Moroccan spices, including cumin, coriander, paprika, and garlic, before roasting it slowly over an open flame or in a pit dug in the ground. The slow cooking process results in tender, succulent meat with a smoky aroma and a flavorful crust. Mechoui is often served during festive occasions and celebrations, symbolizing hospitality and generosity in Moroccan culture.

Where to Try It: Mechoui is a highlight of Moroccan cuisine and can be enjoyed at traditional Moroccan restaurants, festive gatherings, and local markets across the country. During special events like Ramadan feasts and weddings, visitors can partake in the communal experience of sharing a delicious Mechoui meal with family and friends, creating lasting memories of their time in Morocco.

Moroccan Drinks Worth Trying

Mint Tea

Mint tea, also known as "Moroccan whiskey," is a beloved beverage in Morocco, cherished for its refreshing taste and symbolic significance in Moroccan hospitality. It is made by steeping green tea leaves with fresh mint sprigs in boiling water and sweetening it with sugar. Mint tea is traditionally served in small glasses and poured from a height to create froth, adding to the ritualistic charm of the drink.

Where to Try It: Mint tea is ubiquitous in Morocco and can be enjoyed at cafes, restaurants, and households throughout the country. For an authentic experience, visitors can savor mint tea at local tea houses (known as "nous-nous") or in the bustling souks and medinas of cities like Marrakech and Fes.

Moroccan Coffee

Moroccan coffee is a strong and aromatic beverage that holds a special place in Moroccan culture. It is typically made from dark roasted coffee beans and brewed in a small pot called a "dallah" or "kanaka." Moroccan coffee is often flavored with spices like cardamom or cinnamon, which add depth and complexity to its flavor profile.

Where to Try It: Moroccan coffee can be found in cafes and restaurants across Morocco, particularly in urban areas like Casablanca and Rabat. Visitors can enjoy a cup of Moroccan coffee at street-side cafes, traditional Moroccan coffeehouses (known as "maqha"), or while socializing with locals in vibrant neighborhood settings.

Jus d'Orange

Jus d'Orange, or orange juice, is a popular beverage enjoyed throughout Morocco for its refreshing taste and nutritional benefits. It is made from freshly squeezed oranges, which are abundant in Morocco's fertile regions. Jus d'Orange is commonly served at breakfast or as a refreshing beverage throughout the day, particularly during hot summer months.

Where to Try It: Visitors can find Jus d'Orange at juice stands, cafes, and restaurants across Morocco, especially in markets and tourist areas where vendors offer freshly squeezed juices. Whether enjoyed as a standalone drink or as part of a traditional Moroccan breakfast spread, Jus d'Orange is sure to delight the taste buds of travelers exploring Morocco.

Avocado Smoothie

Avocado smoothie is a creamy and nutritious drink that has gained popularity in Morocco, particularly among health-conscious individuals and vegan enthusiasts. It is made from ripe avocados blended with milk or dairy-free alternatives, such as almond milk or coconut milk, and sweetened with honey or sugar. Some variations of avocado smoothie may also include flavorings like vanilla extract or ground cinnamon for added depth of flavor.

Where to Try It: Avocado smoothies can be found in cafes and juice bars in Moroccan cities like Marrakech and Tangier, where they are often featured on menus alongside other healthy and vegan-friendly options. Visitors can enjoy a refreshing avocado smoothie as a nutritious snack or as a satisfying beverage to complement their meals while exploring the culinary landscape of Morocco.

Araq

Araq is a traditional anise-flavored spirit that holds cultural significance in Moroccan cuisine and social gatherings. It is typically distilled from grapes or figs and infused with anise seeds, which impart a distinctive licorice-like flavor to the spirit. Araq is commonly enjoyed as an aperitif before meals or as a digestif after dinner, and it is often served neat or mixed into cocktails for added complexity and depth of flavor.

Where to Try It: Araq can be found in Moroccan restaurants, bars, and liquor stores across the country, particularly in regions known for their production of distilled spirits. Visitors can experience the authentic taste of Araq while dining out or socializing with locals, gaining insight into the rich cultural heritage of Moroccan culinary traditions.

Must-Try Vegetarian and Vegan Moroccan Food

Vegetable Tagine

Vegetable tagine is a flavorful and nutritious dish that caters to vegetarians and vegans alike. It features an assortment of seasonal vegetables such as carrots, potatoes, zucchini, and bell peppers, simmered in a fragrant broth infused with Moroccan spices like cumin, paprika, and turmeric. The slow cooking process allows the vegetables to soak up the aromatic flavors, resulting in a hearty and satisfying meal that is both wholesome and delicious.

Where to Try It: Vegetable tagine can be found in traditional Moroccan restaurants and cafes across the country, where it is often listed as a staple dish on the menu. Visitors can also seek out vegetarian-friendly eateries and health-conscious establishments that specialize in plant-based cuisine, particularly in cities like Marrakech and Essaouira, known for their vibrant food scenes.

Chickpea and Spinach Couscous

Chickpea and spinach couscous is a flavorful and protein-rich dish that showcases the versatility of Moroccan cuisine. It consists of fluffy couscous grains topped with a savory stew made from chickpeas, spinach, tomatoes, onions, and a blend of Moroccan spices like cumin, coriander, and cinnamon. The dish is not only delicious but also nutritious, making it a popular choice among vegetarians and vegans looking for wholesome meal options.

Where to Try It: Chickpea and spinach couscous can be found in restaurants and cafes throughout Morocco, where it is often featured as a vegetarian-friendly option on the menu. Visitors can also explore local markets and food stalls, where they may find vendors offering freshly prepared couscous dishes made with seasonal ingredients sourced from nearby farms and producers.

Harira

Harira is a hearty tomato-based soup that is a staple of Moroccan cuisine, particularly during the holy month of Ramadan. It is made from a flavorful combination of lentils, chickpeas, tomatoes, onions, and aromatic spices like ginger, turmeric, and cinnamon. Harira is not only delicious but also nutritious, providing a comforting and satisfying meal for vegetarians and vegans seeking traditional Moroccan fare.

Where to Try It: Harira is commonly served in Moroccan restaurants and cafes year-round, but it is especially prevalent during Ramadan when it is consumed to break the fast at sunset. Visitors can enjoy a bowl of harira at local eateries and street food stalls, where it is often paired with dates and traditional sweets for a complete Ramadan experience.

Moroccan Stuffed Peppers

Moroccan stuffed peppers are a flavorful and colorful dish that highlights the vibrant flavors of Moroccan cuisine. Bell peppers are filled with a fragrant mixture of rice, lentils, nuts, dried fruits, and Moroccan spices like cumin, paprika, and cinnamon, creating a satisfying and nutritious meal that is both visually appealing and delicious. This vegetarian-friendly dish is perfect for those looking to explore the diverse flavors of Moroccan cuisine without meat.

Where to Try It: Moroccan stuffed peppers can be found in traditional Moroccan restaurants and cafes, where they are often featured as a seasonal specialty or vegetarian option on the menu. Visitors can also seek out local markets and food vendors, where they may find stuffed peppers freshly prepared and served alongside other traditional Moroccan dishes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a brochette in Moroccan cuisine?

A brochette is a skewer of grilled meat or vegetables, commonly seasoned with Moroccan spices like cumin, paprika, and coriander. It's a popular street food and can be found in many restaurants across Morocco.

How are spices used in Moroccan foods?

Spices play a vital role in Moroccan cuisine, adding depth and flavor to dishes like tagine and couscous. Common spices include cumin, ginger, cinnamon, and saffron, creating a rich and aromatic culinary experience.

What are the best Moroccan food to try?

Some must-try Moroccan foods include tagine, couscous, bastilla, mechoui, and zaalouk. These dishes offer a taste of Morocco's diverse culinary heritage and are widely enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.

What are the best places to eat in Morocco?

Morocco offers a vibrant dining scene, with options ranging from street food stalls to upscale restaurants. Cities like Marrakech, Fes, and Casablanca are known for their diverse culinary offerings, including traditional Moroccan cuisine and international fare.

How does Ramadan impact dining in Morocco?

During Ramadan, the holy month of fasting observed by Muslims, many restaurants and cafes in Morocco alter their hours of operation and menus. Traditional dishes like harira and dates are commonly enjoyed to break the fast at sunset, while larger meals are served during nighttime feasts.

What is a Tanjia, and where can I try it in Morocco?

Tanjia is a traditional Moroccan dish consisting of slow-cooked meat marinated in spices and preserved lemon, then cooked in a clay pot. It's a specialty of Marrakech and can be found in local restaurants and street food stalls.

How can you plan your trip to Morocco to experience its culinary delights?

Planning your trip to Morocco involves researching popular dishes, dining destinations, and local customs related to food. Consider booking culinary tours, cooking classes, and dining experiences to fully immerse yourself in Morocco's vibrant food culture.