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What do people eat in Morocco?

Diet

The Moroccan diet reflects the country's rich culinary heritage, blending flavors and ingredients from Arab, Berber, Mediterranean, and African culinary traditions.

Staple Foods:

Couscous: Considered Morocco's national dish, couscous is a staple grain made from semolina flour. It is typically served with a variety of savory toppings, such as vegetables, meat, or fish.

Bread: Bread is a ubiquitous part of Moroccan cuisine, with various types including khobz (round flatbread) and msemen (square-shaped flatbread). Bread is often served alongside meals or used to scoop up sauces and stews.

Flavorful Spices and Herbs: Moroccan cuisine is known for its use of aromatic spices and herbs, such as cumin, cinnamon, saffron, ginger, paprika, and turmeric. These spices add depth and complexity to dishes, enhancing their flavor profiles.

Tagines and Stews:

Tagine refers to a clay cooking vessel with a conical lid and the dishes cooked in it. Tagines are slow-cooked stews made with meat (such as lamb, chicken, or beef), vegetables, dried fruits, and spices. They are often served with couscous or bread.

Vegetable-based Dishes:

Moroccan cuisine features a variety of vegetarian and vegetable-based dishes, including salads, soups, and cooked vegetable dishes. Salads like zaalouk (eggplant salad) and taktouka (tomato and pepper salad) are popular starters or side dishes.

Seafood:

Given Morocco's extensive coastline along the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea, seafood is an integral part of the diet in coastal regions. Grilled fish, seafood tagines, and seafood pastillas (savory pastries) are commonly enjoyed.

Sweets and Pastries: Moroccan desserts are known for their sweetness and indulgence. They often feature ingredients such as almonds, honey, and dates. Popular desserts include baklava, chebakia (sesame-coated cookies), and ma'amoul (date-filled cookies).

Mint Tea: Mint tea, known as "atay nana," is Morocco's national drink and an integral part of Moroccan hospitality. Made with green tea, fresh mint leaves, and sugar, mint tea is served throughout the day and on special occasions.

Street Food: Moroccan street food offers a variety of flavorful and convenient options, including grilled meats, kebabs, sandwiches (like merguez sausage sandwiches), and savory pastries (such as b'stilla, a delicious pie filled with meat and spices).

Mealtime

Before and after eating, each person washes their hands. A basin of water is usually available for washing in the eating area. Moroccans eat with their fingers from a large communal dish, using the right hand only.

Popular Morocco Recipes

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