What to Drink in Morocco: A Guide to Local Beverages

Exploring Morocco’s vibrant culture makes you wonder about its authentic drinks. From mint tea to refreshing North African drinks, Morocco’s drinks showcase its rich heritage. Influences from Arab, Berber, and French traditions make Moroccan drinks a key part of its cuisine and social life.

Imagine sipping on fresh orange juice from Morocco’s top oranges or enjoying Moroccan coffee with dates or sweets. With so many choices, picking what to drink in Morocco can be tough. This guide helps you explore Moroccan drinks, including traditional teas and popular beverages like mint tea and Arabic coffee.

Whether you’re into traditional Moroccan drinks or the modern scene, this guide covers it all. Morocco’s mix of traditional and modern drinks makes it a haven for those who love drinks. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s explore Moroccan drinks and discover the flavors and traditions that make Morocco special.

Key Takeaways

• Moroccan drinks are a big part of the country’s culture and food, with influences from Arab, Berber, and French traditions.
• Drinks like mint tea and Arabic coffee are key to Moroccan culture, often enjoyed at gatherings and special events.
• Morocco is famous for its high-quality oranges, making fresh orange juice a favorite breakfast drink.
• The country offers many refreshing drinks, including sharbat, jus de bissap, and lemon mint iced tea.
• Moroccan drinks can be turned into cocktails by adding liquor, offering a new twist for adventurous drinkers.
• From traditional tea shops to modern coffee bars, Morocco’s beverage scene is vibrant and ready to be explored.

Introduction to Moroccan Drinks

Moroccan drinks are known for their unique flavors. They are made from fresh fruits, herbs, and spices. When you explore popular drinks in Morocco, you’ll find many options. From traditional mint tea to refreshing fruit juices, these drinks are a delicious way to experience the country’s culture and cuisine.

Some of the most exotic drink recipes are found in Morocco. The mix of Arab, Berber, and French influences gives them a distinct flavor. You can try everything from sweet mint tea to spicy ginger drinks. The use of fresh herbs like mint and parsley, along with spices like cumin, saffron, and paprika, makes these drinks unique.

When trying exotic drink recipes, remember the local ingredients and flavors. In Morocco, you’ll find fresh fruits like oranges, lemons, and grapes for juices. Also, the country’s tradition of hospitality is shown in mint tea, a big part of Moroccan culture.

Traditional Moroccan Mint Tea

Moroccan mint tea is a big part of Moroccan tea culture. It’s often given as a sign of welcome and respect. The drink is made from green tea, fresh mint, and sugar, served in small glasses.

The way it’s made is special. The tea is poured high up to make a foamy top. This makes the tea look and taste great.

Mint tea has a long history in Morocco. It’s a key part of social events and celebrations. It’s also enjoyed with Moroccan cocktails, showing the country’s rich food traditions. To make the best mint tea, use fresh mint, green tea, and sugar. Serve it in small glasses.

Here are some key ingredients and steps involved in preparing traditional Moroccan mint tea:

• 3 cups of water
• 2.5 teaspoons of loose “gunpowder” green tea
• 3 tablespoons of sugar
• 8 sprigs of fresh mint, each about 6 inches long

The brewing process takes 5 minutes of gentle boil and 5 minutes of steeping after adding sugar. In Morocco, men usually make the tea. This is part of the tea culture, showing respect and hospitality. Many Moroccans share tea with guests, showing kindness and friendship.

Refreshing Fruit Juices in Morocco

Morocco is a paradise for fruit lovers. It offers a wide variety of fresh fruits all year round. You can find everything from oranges and grapefruits to peaches and pomegranates. Refreshing beverages from Morocco are perfect for staying hydrated and enjoying the local flavors.

A large cup of freshly made fruit juice in Jamaa el Fna Square costs only 20 dirhams (£1.20). This makes it a budget-friendly and popular drink in Morocco. Some favorite juice mixes are orange and grapefruit, and peach and pomegranate.

Common Fruits Used

Here are some common fruits used in refreshing beverages from Morocco:

• Oranges
• Grapefruits
• Peaches
• Pomegranates

Popular Juice Combinations

Here are some favorite juice mixes in Morocco:

• Orange and grapefruit
• Peach and pomegranate

With its rich flavors and affordable prices, it’s no surprise that popular drinks in Morocco are a big hit. Whether you’re up for trying something new or sticking to a classic, Morocco has a juice for everyone.

Coffee Culture in Morocco

Moroccan coffee culture is lively and social. It includes drinks like Arabic coffee and espresso. Unlike Moroccan tea culture, coffee is enjoyed at any time, most in the morning and after meals. The traditional way to make Moroccan coffee is by boiling water, adding ground coffee and sugar, and serving it in small cups.

Coffee is key in Moroccan hospitality. Saying no to coffee is seen as impolite. Traditional Moroccan cafes, or “cafes,” are found in almost every town and city. They are places where locals enjoy authentic Moroccan cocktails and coffee together.

In these cafes, people sit inside or outside, chatting or doing activities. This is different from the solo work seen in U.S. coffee shops.

Some popular coffee types in Morocco are:

• Café Noir (espresso)
• Nous Nous (half milk, half espresso)
• Moroccan spicy coffee, or “café touba,” made with black coffee, ground spices, and sugar

Coffee drinking in Morocco is a social event. Friends, family, and colleagues often meet at cafes. The traditional brewing method uses a small pot called a “jebena” or “kanoun,” allowing flavors to develop slowly. Exploring Moroccan coffee reveals a rich culture filled with tradition and hospitality.

Unique Soft Drinks of Morocco

Morocco has a variety of unique soft drinks to try. La Cigogne, established in 1929, became popular in the 1960s. It’s known for its exotic drink recipes and is a big part of Moroccan culture.

Sharbat and jus de bissap are among the most loved refreshing beverages from Morocco. Sharbat is a fruity drink made with juice and sugar. Jus de bissap is sweet and sour, made from hibiscus flowers. These drinks are great for hot days and are enjoyed by both locals and tourists.

Here are some popular local brands and their specialties:

• La Cigogne: Known for its iconic stork logo and glass bottle design
• Other local brands: Offer a range of flavors and ingredients, including fruit juices and herbal infusions

In recent years, there’s been a comeback for traditional Moroccan soft drinks. Many people, both locals and tourists, are looking for refreshing beverages from Morocco instead of international brands. La Cigogne is a great example of a local brand that has kept its unique identity and exotic drink recipes while adapting to new tastes.

Dairy-Based Beverages

Morocco’s rich tradition of dairy-based beverages offers a unique glimpse into the country’s culinary heritage. Among the various options, argan oil drinks and buttermilk are two popular choices. These drinks not only provide a refreshing escape from the heat but also offer a taste of the local culture.

One notable example of a dairy-based beverage is Raibi Jamila, a yogurt-based drink that has been a staple in Moroccan households for decades. With its distinctive flavor and pink color, Raibi Jamila has become a beloved brand, cherished by people of all ages. The drink’s cultural significance extends beyond its taste, as it is often associated with childhood memories and family gatherings.

Some key characteristics of dairy-based beverages in Morocco include:

• Use of natural ingredients, such as argan oil and honey
• Unique flavor combinations, like yogurt and grenadine
• Cultural significance, with many drinks being an integral part of family gatherings and traditions

In the context of traditional beverages, Morocco’s dairy-based drinks offer a unique perspective on North African refreshments. With their rich flavors and cultural significance, these beverages are an essential part of the country’s culinary identity. Whether it’s argan oil drinks or buttermilk, there’s no denying the importance of dairy-based beverages in Moroccan cuisine.

Herbal Infusions and Teas

Moroccan tea culture is rich and diverse, with many herbal infusions. Chamomile tea, made from dried flowers, is popular for relaxation. Rose tea, from dried rose petals, is calming and soothing.

These teas are not just tasty but also good for you. They help reduce stress and improve digestion. Trying these teas is key to experiencing Morocco like a local. Learn more about Moroccan tea culture.

• Chamomile tea: known for its calming and soothing effects
• Rose tea: made from dried rose petals and known for its calming and soothing effects
• Hibiscus tea: made from dried hibiscus flowers and known for its cranberry-like flavor and potential health benefits

Morocco also offers unique cocktails, blending tea, herbs, and spices. These drinks are a refreshing way to explore the country’s culture.

Alcohol Consumption in Morocco

In Morocco, alcohol is not as common as other drinks. But, you can find local beers and wines like Casablanca and Meknes. These are usually enjoyed in private or on special occasions.

Morocco is a great place to try unique drink recipes. The country is seeing more craft beer and local spirits, thanks to younger people in cities. This means there’s a lot to discover in the world of drinks.

Here are some interesting facts about drinking in Morocco:

• 95% of Moroccans don’t drink alcohol
• You can only buy alcohol in licensed places like bars, hotels, and liquor stores
• The legal drinking age is 18

Even though drinking isn’t big in Morocco, there’s still a chance to find new drinks. You can try popular Moroccan drinks and unique recipes.

Street Vendors and Beverage Experiences

Exploring Morocco is best done by visiting street vendors. Here, you can try refreshing beverages from Morocco. From coffee shops to juice stalls, there’s a lot to choose from. Morocco’s street food scene is lively and varied, offering traditional drinks and snacks.

In the evenings, street vendors gather in popular spots. They offer a variety of drinks and snacks. You can try mint tea or orange juice for just $1 to $3. Some top places to enjoy these drinks include:

• Jemaa el Fna market in Marrakech
• The Medina in Fez
• The beachfront in Essaouira

Drinking with locals is a great way to see Morocco’s kindness. Moroccans love to share their culture with visitors. Drinking tea or coffee together is a wonderful way to connect.

Seasonal Drinks and Festivities

Moroccan culture is rich in traditions and festivities. These often include unique and tasty drinks. During Ramadan, Moroccans enjoy drinks like harira and jallab. These are made from lentils, tomatoes, and dates.

These drinks are key to Moroccan tea culture. They highlight hospitality and community.

In Morocco, special occasions like weddings and holidays are celebrated with drinks. Authentic Moroccan cocktails are made with local ingredients. Oranges, lemons, and mint are often used.

These drinks are not just tasty. They also show the country’s rich cultural heritage.

Some popular seasonal drinks in Morocco include:

• Harira: a hearty soup made with lentils, chickpeas, and tomatoes
• Jallab: a sweet drink made with dates, molasses, and rose water
• Mint tea: a refreshing beverage made with green tea, mint, and sugar

These drinks are a big part of Moroccan festivities. They are served to guests as a sign of welcome. Whether it’s a wedding, holiday, or just a get-together, authentic Moroccan cocktails and traditional drinks are always there.

Conclusion: Savoring Moroccan Beverages

Exploring Moroccan culture is like diving into a world of flavors. The traditional Moroccan drinks are a key part of this journey. They show the country’s rich history and traditions.

Take the famous Moroccan mint tea, for example. It’s more than just a drink; it’s a sign of welcome. And then there are the North African refreshments, which are perfect for hot days.

Whether you prefer a warm tea or a cool juice, Morocco has something for everyone. Its drinks are a mix of tastes and customs that will stay with you. So, grab a glass and enjoy the unique tastes of Moroccan drinks. They make the Moroccan experience unforgettable.