11 must-try dishes and treats in Morocco

Couscous is likely the one thing you’ve probably heard of on this list. It's a small pasta that resembles sand in shape and size, typically served with veggies, a type of meat (chicken, beef, or fish), and a sauce. On Fridays, the tradition is for families and communities to gather and share a couscous meal.

“Tajine” refers to the dish and the cookware used to make it. The large flat bowl and cone-like top are traditionally made of ceramic or clay, which is used to slow-cook the dish over a stove or fire. After a few, a stew of veggies, olives, rice, and meat is served.

This Berber pizza is a popular Moroccan dish from the desert, traditionally cooked over fire. Round dough balls filled with ground beef, onions, and spices are baked. This produces a flat, stuffed pizza, like a flat calzone or stuffed bread.

The French colonial history is present in much of the country, especially in the bakeries. Typically, it’s difficult to find bread that the French consider as high quality as their own, but Morocco is one place you won’t have that problem! The baguettes here rival those found in Paris.

This brightly colored sauce originates in Tunisia but isn’t any less tasty in Morocco. Made from chiles, garlic, and olive oil, you’ll frequently see it served with a variety of dishes across the region.

These date-filled cookies are sweetened with simple syrup, which produces a unique taste that isn’t too sweet. They can be found across the Middle East and North Africa and are popular during holidays and celebrations. Other versions use nuts for fillings if you want to try something different! 

The national drink is a must-try on any trip. And you will not be able to leave the country without double-digit tea offers from numerous friendly Moroccans. At cafes, it’s served with sugar cubes on the side so you can sweeten it to your liking, but if you enjoy it at someone’s house, make sure to check because they’ve likely already sweetened it. A perfect companion to Maamoul cookies!

This tomato soup is quite different from the canned stuff frequently found on US grocery shelves. For a much heartier version, it can also be made vegan, as the primary ingredients are tomatoes, lentils, chickpeas, and fresh herbs. Non-vegetarians/vegans can add meat for extra protein and flavor. 

A smoked eggplant dish that is as mouth-watering as it sounds. Eggplant and tomato are cooked over the stove with various species (although garlic is the star) and blended to create more of a mash. Olive oil is added. Zalouk can be served hot or cold, usually with bread.

These deep-fried potato balls are found around the North African region and will absolutely rock your tastebuds! Made from pureed potatoes fried with egg, cheese, garlic, and spice. Typically served with harissa.

The staple round bread is found in bakeries and kiosks throughout the country. Thin Arabic pita bread is frequently used as a utensil to pick up sauces and other dishes.