Must-Try Moroccan Dishes

1. Tagine

Tagine is perhaps the most iconic Moroccan dish, named after the earthenware pot in which it's cooked. This slow-cooked stew features tender meats, vegetables, and aromatic spices like cumin, coriander, and saffron. Popular variations include:

• Chicken Tagine with Preserved Lemons and Olives
• Lamb Tagine with Prunes and Almonds
• Vegetable Tagine with Seasonal Produce

2. Couscous

Couscous is a staple in Moroccan cuisine, traditionally served on Fridays. This steamed semolina dish is often accompanied by meat, vegetables, and a flavorful broth. Try Royal Couscous, which includes a variety of meats like chicken, lamb, and merguez sausages.

3. Pastilla

Pastilla, also known as b'stilla, is a unique sweet and savory pie. Traditionally made with pigeon meat (often replaced by chicken), it features layers of phyllo pastry, almonds, and a dusting of powdered sugar and cinnamon.

4. Harira

Harira is a hearty soup commonly served during Ramadan to break the fast. Made with tomatoes, lentils, chickpeas, and spices, it's often garnished with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon.

5. Moroccan Salads

Moroccan meals often begin with a selection of salads, both cooked and raw. Some popular options include:

• Zaalouk: A smoky eggplant and tomato salad.
• Taktouka: A spicy salad made with roasted peppers and tomatoes.
• Carrot Salad: Featuring grated carrots, orange juice, and cinnamon.

6. Mechoui

Mechoui is a traditional dish of slow-roasted lamb, seasoned with cumin and salt. The tender, flavorful meat is often served at celebrations and special occasions.

7. Moroccan Mint Tea

No meal in Morocco is complete without a glass of Moroccan mint tea. This sweet, refreshing beverage is made with green tea, fresh mint leaves, and plenty of sugar. It's a symbol of hospitality and is often served to guests.

Dining Tips for Enjoying Moroccan Cuisine

1. Embrace the Communal Experience

Moroccan meals are often communal, with dishes shared among family and friends. Embrace this tradition by dining with locals or joining a family-style meal at a riad.

2. Explore the Street Food Scene

Morocco's street food scene offers a variety of delicious and affordable options. Try freshly grilled brochettes (meat skewers), sfenj (Moroccan doughnuts), and briouats (savory pastries filled with meat or cheese).

3. Be Adventurous with Spices

Moroccan cuisine is known for its bold use of spices. Be open to trying new flavors, and consider purchasing some spices from local markets to bring the taste of Morocco home with you.

4. Respect Local Customs

When dining in Morocco, it's customary to eat with your right hand and use bread as a utensil. Always wash your hands before a meal, and avoid touching food with your left hand, as it's considered impolite.

5. Try a Cooking Class

For a deeper understanding of Moroccan cuisine, consider taking a cooking class. Many riads and culinary schools offer classes where you can learn to prepare traditional dishes and gain insight into Moroccan cooking techniques.



Moroccan cuisine offers a rich and diverse culinary experience that every food lover should explore. From aromatic tagines to sweet pastillas, the flavors of Morocco are sure to leave a lasting impression. By embracing local customs and being open to new tastes, you'll enjoy a delicious journey through this vibrant country's culinary landscape.