8/9/2019 The Spice of Moroccan Life - Anita Carmin

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s anyone with an appetite for travel will tell

you, getting a taste of the local cuisine is the

best way to discover the singular flavors and

subtle nuances of a region. In Morocco,

this is enticingly true.

From its boisterous markets teeming

with fragrant spices to its steamingtagines (stews) and esteemed tea

rituals, this colorful North African country has enchanted

visitors for centuries.

Due to its location on the ancient Arabian spice route,

Morocco has long been known for its spice-infused cuisine.

Among the most popular spices: karfa (cinnamon), kamoun

(cumin), kharkoum (turmeric), skignbir (ginger), tahmira

(paprika), kasbour (coriander), andzaafrane beldi (saffron).

Youll taste them in the exotic stews, the sweetened salads,

and the savory pastries that are mainstays in Moroccan

homes and on restaurant menus.

In the ancient capitals of Marrakech and Fez, begin

your culinary odyssey with a stroll through the seductive

spice souks (markets). Prepare yourself for a kaleidoscope

of colors, a cacophony of sounds, and a collision of

intoxicating aromas. This is sensory overload at itsbest and a photo op if ever there was one. Indeed, theres

something almost unreal about those cone-shaped mounds

of blazing red paprika, fiery cayenne pepper, and bright

yellow turmeric that rise from baskets or pots at the front

of the shops. Look for ras el hanout(best of the shop), a

mixture of spices anywhere from ten to one hundred

that vendors make exclusively for their shops. The recipes

for ras el hanoutare always a secret, and no two are ever

the same.P

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8/9/2019 The Spice of Moroccan Life - Anita Carmin

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8/9/2019 The Spice of Moroccan Life - Anita Carmin

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V I R T U O S O I N S I G H T S

ON TOUR

Our friends at Mountain Voyage Morocco have

a collective one hundred years of experience

introducing travelers to the colorful treasures

and culinary pleasures of this exotic country.

Working with your Virtuoso travel advisor, they

will be happy to create a private culinary tour

tailored to your unique tastes, and supply English-

speaking guides to help you navigate the labyrinth

of narrow streets in themedinas. They also

can secure reservations at any of the countrys

acclaimed restaurants, including Yacout and Al

Fassia. Contact your Virtuoso travel advisor for

more information.

IN FEZ

Formerly the palace of the Grand Vizir Jamai,

the legendary Sofitel Palais Jamai offers 142

guestrooms and suites, most with balconies.

Amenities include the renowned Al Fassia

restaurant, an outdoor swimming pool, and

hammam (steam bath) with massage and

beauty treatments. Virtuoso guests receive

a complimentary upgrade, if available; buffet

breakfast daily; choice of a hammam or sauna

spa session for two, once during stay; early

check-in and late checkout, if available; and

a special, keepsake gift. From MAD2,356

(approx. US$325) per room, per night.

IN MARRAKECH

Located amidst palm and olive trees, Amanjena

(translation: peaceful paradise) features a

swimming pool, hammam, and exquisite dining.

Virtuoso guests receive a complimentary

upgrade, if available; continental breakfast daily;

one lunch for two once during stay; and private

transportation to and from the Marrakech Airport.

From US$900 per room, per night. Also visit

Sir Richard Bransons walled retreat, Kasbah

Tamadot, which boasts ambrosial gardens, two

pools, and terrace dining with breathtaking views.Virtuoso guests enjoy a complimentary upgrade, if

available; buffet breakfast daily; a complimentary

hammam for two; and early check-in and late

checkout, if available. From EUR320 (approx.

US$505) per room, per night.

THREE WAYS TOSAVOR MOROCCOWhere to Dine

In Marrakech: Yacout This romantic restaurant a

favorite of European celebs is tucked away in the medina.

Saffron-scented tagines of beef, veal, or chicken are the

house specialty, and patrons are invited to eat the traditional

way with their fingers.

In Fez: Al Fassia In addition to excellent food (its

pastilla a blend of shredded chicken, cinnamon, saffron,

and herbs in a flaky puff pastry is said to be one of the

best in the entire country), Al Fassia is known for its smaller,

la carte portions and its all-female ownership highly

unusual in an Islamic country. Morocco boasts five Al Fassia

restaurants, including one in Fezs posh Sofitel Palais

Jamai hotel.

A Sweet Finale to a Spicy MealMeals in Morocco always end on a sweet note with a

steaming glass of tea, flavored with Moroccan mint and

plenty of sugar. The tea is poured from a great height into

clear tea glasses. More than a mere beverage, Moroccan tea

is a symbolic acknowledgment of friendship. The green of

the tea is said to bring good luck; the high sugar content is a

blessing for continued good health. Incidentally, you will be

offered mint tea wherever you go. Never turn it down; to do

so is considered a discourtesy. In fact, when invited to tea in

a private home, you should drink at least three cups to show

your hosts you have accepted their hospitality.

om great heights:

oroccan mint tea.

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