Date of publication 30/03/2026
A journey through the flavors of Morocco in 9 recipes
Agadir, Marrakech, or Saïdia: Iberostar’s hotels in Morocco await, ready to guide you through a magnetic culture where sensory richness coexists in harmony with spiritual simplicity. An essential part of this ancient heritage is its cuisine.
To speak of Moroccan cooking is to step into one of the most distinctive culinary traditions, not only in North Africa but across the entire continent. It is a cuisine of musky nuances and enveloping spices, where sweet and savory meet; where the table is shared with family and with strangers alike. It is both tradition and modernity. Simplicity and mystery. This African destination is a paradise for attentive eyes and palates, living up to an Arabic proverb: “Whoever does not understand a glance will not understand a long explanation.”
Join us on a journey through the flavors of Morocco, from its foundations and rituals to its traditional recipes, the best places to eat, and the drinks that accompany each dish.
The essence of Moroccan cuisine
Ras el hanout
You have likely heard of this key ingredient in Moroccan cuisine, one that evokes warm hues, endless sunsets, and unforgettable images such as the golden Morocco associated with Carmina Ordóñez and other bohemian-spirited celebrities. But what exactly is ras el hanout, and how is it used? The first thing to know is that it is a blend of spices, not a single one, as is often assumed, created as a premium seasoning in local shops and market stalls. In fact, its name means “head of the shop,” referring to the merchant’s finest blend.
There is no single way to prepare it, as it can include between 20 and 40 dried spices and herbs, such as turmeric, coriander, ginger, black pepper, cardamom, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Sometimes rose petals and other exotic touches are added. Its flavor, both sweet and slightly spicy, pairs perfectly with dishes like couscous or tagine.
The ritual of hospitality through food
From the moment you arrive at our all-inclusive hotels in Morocco, you will feel the warmth of a destination known for its welcoming spirit. Moroccan dining rituals are rooted in respect, generosity, and mutual kindness. The tea ceremony, often accompanied by dates and traditional sweets, is the ultimate gesture of hospitality and one of those local customs that make you feel at ease wherever you go. As a general rule, it is considered impolite to refuse a cup of tea or other culinary offerings, as doing so may be seen as a lack of appreciation toward the host.
The 9 essentials
Couscous
Couscous reigns in Moroccan cuisine as one of its staple foods. Loved by all generations, it is a must during a stay at family-friendly hotels in Morocco. One of the oldest healthy recipes in Arab cuisine, with roots in Berber culture, dates back nearly 1,000 years. It is essentially a garnish of semolina served with a stew, cooked using the steam from the dish itself. Lamb with prunes is especially popular. While there are countless variations, one of the most distinctive is the sweetcouscous known as Seffa, traditionally prepared to celebrate the birth of a child.
Tagine
Of Berber origin, tagine is one of the most iconic dishes in Moroccan gastronomy. Its name comes from the vessel in which it is cooked, just as paella does in Spain. Inside, you will find a slow-cooked stew of meat, fish, or vegetables, where spices, dates, and prunes play a central role. It is prepared over low heat, making use of the steam that condenses in its distinctive cone-shaped lid, continuously rehydrating the dish. Fish tagine is typical along the coast. Try it during your stay at our hotel in Agadir.
Harira
From Agadir to Marrakech, and to harira, a staple of the Moroccan table, especially in this destination. This hearty soup is traditionally enjoyed during the month of Ramadan. It is made with chickpeas, vegetables, a blend of spices, and meats such as lamb, beef, or chicken. Its richness and deep flavor make it ideal for breaking the fast. It is usually served with bread and fresh fruit, although customs vary by family. Interestingly, it is enjoyed hot even in warm weather. You can savor it year-round at what may become your favorite hotel in Marrakech.
Pastela (bastilla)
A Moroccan feast often begins with a pastela or bastilla. This delicious pastry is both savory and sweet, made with layers of phyllo dough filled with a stew of chicken, onion, almonds, and a blend of spices including cumin, cinnamon, and turmeric. The filling is prepared the day before and left to rest, allowing the flavors to fully develop. During your stay at a seafront hotel in Saïdia, try the seafood version, a popular variation in this coastal destination.
Skewers (kofta and shish taouk)
Saïdia, home to our five-star resort Iberostar Waves Saïdia, is often called the “Moroccan Caribbean” for its pristine beaches. Some recipes seem made for enjoying in this setting, with views of clear waters as part of a light lunch or dinner. Skewers are one of them. There are several types, with kofta and shish taouk among the most popular. Kofta skewers are made from spiced ground lamb shaped around a skewer, while shish taouk features marinated chicken breast with a citrus touch and yogurt, the key to keeping the meat tender.
Moroccan salad
There are several versions of Moroccan salad, reflecting a seasonal cuisine based on local ingredients. The most popular, known as chlada, includes diced tomato, cucumber, onion, and sometimes green pepper, dressed with olive oil, salt, pepper, vinegar, and fresh cilantro. Tomato salad may include or omit cucumber and is seasoned with cumin and cilantro. A crunchy version combines celery, green and red peppers, onion, mint, chili, and parsley. Other variations include beet salad, potato salad with garlic, and marinated carrot salad, or khizou mchermel.
Tanjia marrakshia
Tanjia marrakshia is a hearty meat dish typical of Marrakech, made with various cuts marinated in turmeric, cumin, saffron, preserved lemon, butter, garlic, and ras el hanout. Its uniqueness lies in how it is cooked: slowly, in the embers of underground ovens, inside a clay vessel. A sweet variation includes sugar, cinnamon, and dates. This dish pairs perfectly with a stay at Iberostar Waves Club Palmeraie Marrakech, one of the best places to stay in Morocco, set in the heart of the palm grove and just 15 minutes from the Medina, where the aromas and flavors of the city are ever present.
Rfissa
Among Morocco’s celebratory dishes, rfissa stands out. It is made with stewed chicken, lentils, fenugreek seeds, ras el hanout, and pieces of meloui, a flaky flatbread from the previous day, or msemen, a local crepe-like bread. This comforting, family-style recipe is especially popular in places like Agadir, home to Iberostar Waves Founty Beach. It is an ideal choice for those looking for beachfront hotels in Morocco, whether traveling as a couple, with children, or with friends.
Gazelle horns and “Berber whisky”
Do not let the name mislead you. Gazelle horns, or kaab el ghazal, are one of Morocco’s most beloved desserts, featuring a delicate blend of almond paste scented with orange blossomwater and cinnamon. This filling is wrapped in small, crescent-shaped pastries made from thin dough. Pair them with another playful name, “Berber whisky,” which is actually Moroccan mint tea. The authentic version, a symbol of hospitality and respect, is made with green tea, fresh mint, and sugar.
Where to experience the best of Moroccan gastronomy
Street food with a story
Staying at hotels in Morocco brings you closer to its gastronomy, both on-site and beyond. In this country, street food is a statement of intent, as much a part of the experience as surfing or desert expeditions. Stalls in souks and riad courtyards offer an authentic and distinctive street food scene, often with excellent value for money. Historically, these food stands have reflected the coexistence of different cultures in public spaces, including Berbers, Jews, Arab Muslims, sub-Saharan communities, and Europeans.
Some of the must-try bites include maakouda, a potato fritter; kefta sandwiches made with seasoned ground meat; msemmen, a flaky flatbread or crepe; baghrir, known as the “thousand-hole” pancake; and sfenj, a type of Moroccan doughnut.
Restaurants in Riads
Many riads serve meals throughout the day, even if you are not staying there. Early mornings, in particular, offer a glimpse into local flavors. A typical Moroccan breakfast may include bread such as harcha, pan-fried semolina bread, or krachel, a soft anise-and-orange-blossom bun, along with baghrir topped with butter, honey, and fresh fruit, plus Moroccan tea or coffee. At times, breakfast leans savory, with eggs, olives, mild cheese, and bread, or even dishes like hhellea, made with dried meat, spices, and eggs wrapped in soft bread. Bissara, a hearty legume soup, is another option. As the sun sets, dinners unfold at an unhurried pace under the stars, in patios or on rooftop terraces with views.
Learn to cook like a local
Beyond discovering curious facts about Morocco, such as snowfall in the Sahara, you can connect more deeply with the destination by learning to cook Moroccan dishes and bringing those skills home. It often begins with a visit to a local market or souk, shopping just as locals do. The aroma of spices guides you toward seasonal dishes that are best prepared slowly and shared with others, using traditional methods such as clay tagines, bread ovens, and the ritual of couscous preparation.
Spices, led by ras el hanout, define the flavors. In many destinations, cooking classes, workshops, and tastings are available near souks, in riads, and within hotels and resorts.
Restaurants at some of the best hotels in Morocco
From the Moroccan restaurant Jawhara at Iberostar Waves Club Palmeraie Marrakech to Teatro Casablanca and Bar Jazmín at Iberostar Waves Saïdia, or the Antares Moroccan Restaurant at Iberostar Waves Founty Beach, the culinary spaces within our all-inclusive hotels in Morocco are thoughtfully curated. Each menu brings together the best of local gastronomy with international variety, including vegan options and children’s menus. Buffets and themed restaurants allow guests to enjoy Moroccan dishes made with fresh, high-quality ingredients, with a strong focus on local sourcing, alongside traditional dinners with live shows, memorable breakfasts, and relaxed snacks by the pool or on the beach.
Tips for food-loving travelers
How to spot an authentic restaurant versus a tourist one
In Morocco’s most visited destinations, such as Marrakech, it is easy to come across places that cater primarily to tourists. When choosing where to eat, look for restaurants frequented by locals. If you see Moroccan families dining there, it is usually a good sign. Opt for places with simple, focused menus centered on dishes like tagine or couscous, reasonable prices, slightly tucked-away locations, and modest décor. Avoid, on the other hand, places with menus displayed in multiple languages right at the entrance, overly central locations, or staff who are overly persistent in inviting you in. You can find more tips for your trip in this three-day Marrakech guide.
Table etiquette
In addition to accepting food and drink when offered, it is important to follow a few basic customs. Remove your shoes before entering a home as a sign of respect, something that may also apply in small family-run restaurants, riads, hammams, or prayer spaces. Eat and greet with your right hand, and respond with gratitude and presence to the hospitality extended to you.
Dining etiquette in Morocco is closely tied to building connections, especially in rural and desert areas where these values remain deeply rooted. Although our four-star hotels in Morocco follow an international approach, keeping these customs in mind can enrich your experience.
Typical drinks
Fresh fruit juices and smoothies such as zaazaa, made with avocado and nuts, or raibi jamila, a liquid yogurt drink with pomegranate, are among Morocco’s most representative beverages. Kefir, now popular worldwide but as old as North African culinary traditions, is made by fermenting milk, whether animal or plant-based, with natural bacteria and yeasts. Similar in appearance to drinkable yogurt, it can contain up to 60 microbial strains, giving it notable probiotic benefits.
In Morocco, mint tea is consumed almost like water. Beyond the playful nickname of “Berber whisky,” this infusion is a national symbol and a cornerstone of the country’s culinary identity, even though the tea tradition itself dates back only a couple of centuries. Its preparation is simple yet powerful: green tea, fresh mint, and sugar. According to custom, it is served three times: the first, bitter as life; the second, strong as love; and the third, sweet as death. It tastes best in places with a true sense of soul, such as Morocco’s hotels.
Where to stay to experience Morocco with all your senses
Choosing the right place to stay is part of Morocco’s gastronomic and cultural experience. Iberostar is present in three of the country’s most captivating destinations, with all-inclusive hotels in Morocco designed so nothing interrupts the pleasure of discovering this country.
In Marrakech, Iberostar Waves Club Palmeraie Marrakech is set among palm trees just 15 minutes from the Medina, making it one of the best options for families who want to combine the energy of the city with relaxation by the pool. Its restaurants reflect the depth of local cuisine from the first breakfast to the final dinner with live entertainment.
On the Atlantic coast, Iberostar Waves Founty Beach is a four-star beachfront hotel in Agadir where the sea, gastronomy, and Berber culture come together naturally. It is a popular choice for those looking for family-friendly hotels in Agadir, whether exploring the souk or enjoying the Atlantic sun without leaving the resort.
To the north, overlooking the Mediterranean, Iberostar Waves Saïdia is a five-star resort that fully embodies the nickname “Moroccan Caribbean.” With pools, direct beach access, and a culinary offering that celebrates the region’s best flavors, it stands out as one of the top choices for families seeking a complete and authentic escape.
