Why Moroccan Cuisine is the Best Cuisine in the World

Moroccan Cuisine Ranked the BEST in the world

For travelers visiting Morocco, the country’s cuisine is often the highlight of the journey. Moroccan food has a unique mix of flavors, textures, and cooking techniques that come from a long history of cultural influences. Each dish tells a story shaped by Arab, Berber, Mediterranean, and even sub-Saharan African traditions, creating a dining experience that appeals to food lovers worldwide.

Moroccan cuisine was voted the best in the world by over 2.5 million Instagram users on the popular platform “Pubity” in recent culinary rankings. Receiving 60% of the vote, Morocco’s cuisine outranked even renowned favorites, like Mexican cuisine. Internationally famous chefs, including Gordon Ramsay, have praised Moroccan food for its rich flavors and intricate cooking techniques, further establishing it as a top choice for culinary enthusiasts.

Why Everyone Loves Moroccan Cuisine

Moroccan cuisine’s appeal comes from its extraordinary depth of flavors, cultural influences, and traditions of hospitality. Each dish is prepared with care, combining a variety of spices that bring out the best in each ingredient. For many, the experience of eating Moroccan food goes beyond taste, as it’s a moment of connection and discovery. Moroccan food’s global recognition stems from its ability to bring people together, providing a unique dining experience that feels like a journey through Morocco’s rich history and diverse landscape.

Iconic Moroccan Dishes to Try

1. Tagine: Tagine is perhaps Morocco’s most iconic dish, with endless variations. It’s made with slow-cooked meat, such as lamb, chicken, or fish, paired with a variety of vegetables and spices. Moroccans cook in a clay pot: The Tagine, which has a cone-shaped lid that allows steam to circulate, locking in the intense, aromatic flavors. Tagine is a must-try for visitors wanting to experience the heart of Moroccan cuisine.
2. Couscous: Traditionally served on Fridays, couscous is a staple in Moroccan households. We usually serve the dish with seven different vegetables and sometimes with meat. Its fluffy texture, combined with a hearty stew, makes it a comforting and satisfying meal.
3. Pastilla: Pastilla is a unique pastry that combines sweet and savory flavors in one dish. It is typically made with layers of flaky pastry, filled with spiced chicken, almonds, and cinnamon, or sometimes with seafood along the coast. Pastilla’s blend of flavors and textures makes it a favorite for special occasions.
4. Rfissa: A popular dish at family gatherings, Rfissa consists of shredded bread topped with a spiced broth, chicken, and lentils. The flavors are warm, comforting, and rich, making it a favorite meal for colder weather.
5. Fried Fish and Seafood: Along Morocco’s coastline, particularly in cities like Essaouira,El Jadida and Safi, fresh fish and seafood are commonly fried or grilled. The simple preparation lets the natural flavors of the seafood shine, making it a popular choice for a quick meal.

Street Food and Snacks

1. Sfenj: A fluffy, Moroccan-style doughnut sprinkled with sugar.
2. Msemen: A flaky, square-shaped pancake often served with honey or filled with savory ingredients.
3. Brochettes: Skewers of seasoned, grilled meat, usually lamb or chicken.
4. Snails: Served in a hot, spiced broth, snails are a popular street food in Morocco, offering a unique local flavor.
5. Caliente: Found primarily in the north, Caliente is a savory, chickpea-based snack that’s light yet filling.
6. Grilled Corn: A simple, delicious street snack, grilled corn is served hot off the coals, perfect for a quick bite.
7. Maakouda: These potato fritters are especially popular in the Fez-Meknes region. Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, they’re a satisfying snack.
8. Beignets: These doughnuts are often dusted with sugar or jam and are a sweet treat found at markets and street corners.
9. Nougat and Fresh Juices: Sweet nougat and fresh fruit juices are widely available and make for refreshing, tasty treats during hot days.

Practical Tips for Dining in Morocco

To help you fully enjoy Morocco’s cuisine, here are a few tips:

• Go Slow with the Spices: Moroccan dishes can be spice-heavy, so start slow if you’re sensitive to spicy food. Most dishes are rich in flavor but mild in heat, so even sensitive eaters can enjoy them.
• Vegetarian Options: While Morocco is meat-heavy, vegetarians can find options like vegetable tagine, lentil salads, and stuffed vegetables.
• Try Communal Dining: In Morocco, meals are often communal. Sharing food is a sign of friendship and hospitality, so don’t hesitate to join locals at the table.
• Hydration: Moroccan food is rich and sometimes heavy; staying hydrated will help you enjoy it fully, especially during hot months.

When dining in Morocco, especially at traditional meals, it’s common for locals to eat with their hands. Here are a few practical tips for enjoying this experience respectfully:

• Eat with Three Fingers: Use only three fingers of your right hand to take food, especially when sharing from a communal plate.
• Respect the Communal Plate: If you’re eating from a shared dish, stick to your spot and avoid reaching across the dish.
• Be Prepared for Bread as Utensils: Bread often replaces cutlery and is used to scoop up food.

Moroccan Tea in Local Culture

No guide to Moroccan cuisine is complete without mentioning mint tea. Mint tea, often referred to as “Moroccan whiskey,” symbolizes hospitality and is served everywhere, from bustling cafes to family homes. The tea brews with green tea leaves, fresh mint, and a generous amount of sugar.. The ritual of pouring tea from a height creates froth on the surface, enhancing both flavor and presentation. Sharing tea is a central part of Moroccan social life, so expect to enjoy it often during your visit.

For readers interested in a traditional Moroccan tea experience, be sure to check out my guide on how to make Moroccan tea like a local. This guide offers insights into preparing and serving tea, a ritual that’s central to Moroccan culture.

Need help Navigate Moroccan Food ?

Exploring Morocco through its cuisine is one of the most enriching ways to experience the country. Whether you’re savoring tagine, snacking on street food, or enjoying a cup of mint tea, each meal will bring you closer to understanding Morocco’s unique charm and tradition.

If you’re planning a trip to Morocco and want to explore its food culture in depth, reach out! As a local guide, I can introduce you to authentic dishes, and make sure you experience the best of Moroccan hospitality and cuisine.