A memorable culinary adventure in Morocco for a lifetime’s worth

 

The food history of Morocco dates back to the early settlement of Berbers who enthusiastically introduced a range of gastronomical delights with the inclusion of locally grown ingredients – figs, dates and olives, into cooking. Later, the Arabs would bring an appetising range of food choices to the land. Owing to its geographical location, the country is blessed with diverse dishes that are rich in spices—including saffron, cumin, ginger, turmeric and cinnamon, and flavours.

When wandering in Morocco, try these traditional dishes from their popular nooks and crannies:

The Cosy Food Stalls in the Imperial City of Fez

Taste the heavenly Bissara—soup concocted from split peas and fava beans. The delightful sprinkle of cumin on the soup makes it a darling for cold, wintry days. What perhaps puts Bissara on a pedestal higher in the richness of olive oil and creamy texture which could be scooped up with soft locally made oven bread. Mint tea is often drunk after a savoury meal of Bissara.

While in Fez, do walk around to try the other dishes which were historically served to the sultans. The options include myriad types of sandwiches, fruits and bread.

The Aromatic Marrakesh

Marrakesh is an abode for veg lovers. Each meal has a splendid array of veggies in it. Some of the well-known recipes are Falafel—a Moroccan classic with tomato-cooked salad, taktouka and pepper; quiche and salad is another heavenly pleasure to relish. While at Marrakesh, the allure of gourmet veg burgers and ‘kech platter is also irresistible. Before wrapping up, make sure to sip some cold brew coffee – the icing on top.

Before visiting specific stalls, you may want to glance through the reviews online to narrow down your options.

The Fresh and Savoury Flavours at Essaouira 

If food jamming is one of the priorities on this trip to Morocco, Essaouira is an oasis to quench your thirst. The stalls are beaming with traditional Moroccan food sold at pocket-friendly prices. Among the plethora of things you should try, Harira Soup, AM’smen— a type of flatbread, Harcha or semolina bread and Tacos certainly deserve a mention. Around Hassan Square, you might also stumble upon the mysterious sellers of candies and cookies! They stroll around with a delicious spread hanging above their shoulders.

Besides the gastronomical treats, the street is a visual euphoria. As the quaint street-side kitchens beautifully line up the alleys, you get a glimpse into the hitherto less touristy side of Morocco.