A Foodie’s Guide to Moroccan Street Food

A Foodie’s Guide to Moroccan Street Food

September 16, 2024

Moroccan street food offers a vibrant and delicious window into the country’s rich culinary traditions. From bustling souks to roadside stalls, the streets of Morocco are filled with mouthwatering dishes that reflect a fusion of Berber, Arabic, Andalusian, and French influences. Whether you’re in Marrakech, Fes, or Tangier, the tantalizing aromas of spices, grilled meats, and freshly baked bread will draw you in. Here’s a guide to some of the must-try Moroccan street foods:

1. Msemen (Moroccan Pancakes)

What It Is: Msemen is a flaky, square-shaped pancake made from dough that’s folded and fried until golden brown. It’s typically served for breakfast or as a snack.
How It’s Served: It can be eaten plain or with honey, butter, or jam. Some vendors also serve savory versions stuffed with onions, herbs, and spices.
Where to Try It: Look for msemen being prepared at street stalls, especially in the mornings, in cities like Marrakech or Casablanca.

2. Sfenj (Moroccan Doughnuts)

What It Is: Sfenj is Morocco’s version of doughnuts, made from a simple yeast dough that’s fried until crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. It’s a popular street snack for any time of day.
How It’s Served: Typically eaten plain, sprinkled with sugar, or dipped in honey. Best enjoyed fresh and hot.
Where to Try It: Sfenj vendors can be found in markets and squares, especially around breakfast time.

3. Maakouda (Potato Fritters)

What It Is: Maakouda are small, spiced potato patties that are fried until crispy on the outside and soft inside. They are often served as a snack or side dish.
How It’s Served: These fritters are usually eaten alone or stuffed into sandwiches with harissa (a spicy chili paste) and fresh vegetables.
Where to Try It: You can find maakouda in street stalls in cities like Fes and Tangier, often sold alongside other fried snacks.

4. Harira Soup

What It Is: A hearty, flavorful soup made with tomatoes, lentils, chickpeas, and herbs. Harira is traditionally eaten to break the fast during Ramadan but is also enjoyed year-round.
How It’s Served: Served with a side of dates or chebakia (sesame and honey pastries) for a sweet and savory contrast.
Where to Try It: Harira is commonly sold in markets and near mosques, especially during the evening.

5. Brochettes (Grilled Meat Skewers)

What It Is: Brochettes are skewers of marinated meat—usually beef, lamb, or chicken—grilled over charcoal for a smoky flavor.
How It’s Served: Typically served with a sprinkle of cumin, salt, and fresh bread. Pair with spicy harissa for added heat.
Where to Try It: Look for brochette vendors at food stalls in public squares like Djemaa el-Fna in Marrakech or in souks throughout the country.

6. B’stilla (Savory Pie)

What It Is: B’stilla is a flaky pastry filled with savory and sweet ingredients. The traditional version is made with pigeon or chicken, almonds, and spiced eggs, wrapped in thin warka dough, and dusted with powdered sugar and cinnamon.
How It’s Served: B’stilla is often served as a starter at special events but can also be found in some street food stalls, especially in larger cities.
Where to Try It: Head to Marrakech or Fes to find vendors selling mini b’stillas, a perfect snack for on-the-go foodies.

7. Snail Soup (Babbouche)

What It Is: Babbouche is a popular street food made with snails cooked in a flavorful broth of herbs and spices, including anise, thyme, and licorice.
How It’s Served: Snails are served in their shells, and you’re provided with a toothpick to extract them. The spicy broth is also sipped afterward.
Where to Try It: You’ll find snail soup stalls in places like Djemaa el-Fna in Marrakech, particularly in the evenings.

8. Zaalouk (Eggplant and Tomato Salad)

What It Is: Zaalouk is a warm salad made from roasted eggplant, tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and spices. It’s often served as a side dish or dip.
How It’s Served: Typically eaten with freshly baked Moroccan bread (khobz), which is perfect for scooping up the rich, smoky salad.
Where to Try It: Street food stalls and small eateries often offer zaalouk as a side to other dishes.

9. Tagine

What It Is: A traditional slow-cooked Moroccan dish made in a conical clay pot. Tagines come in various flavors, from lamb with prunes to chicken with preserved lemons and olives.
How It’s Served: Served with bread to soak up the rich, flavorful sauce. Street vendors often offer smaller, more affordable portions than restaurants.
Where to Try It: Street vendors and food markets across Morocco, especially in places like the medina of Fes or the souks of Marrakech.

10. Kebab Sandwiches

What It Is: Thin slices of spiced meat—usually beef or chicken—grilled on skewers and served in a sandwich or wrap with fresh vegetables, herbs, and sauces.
How It’s Served: Wrapped in a Moroccan flatbread with a dollop of harissa and a side of fries.
Where to Try It: Kebab sandwiches are popular street food and can be found in busy markets and squares.

Tips for Enjoying Moroccan Street Food

Hygiene: Look for busy stalls where locals are eating, as these spots are likely to have higher food turnover and fresher dishes.
Trying Something New: Don’t be afraid to sample unfamiliar foods; Morocco’s street food is diverse, and part of the fun is discovering new flavors.
Sharing is Common: Street food portions can be generous, so consider sharing dishes to try more variety.

Conclusion

Moroccan street food offers a delicious and accessible way to explore the country’s rich culinary traditions. From savory msemen and brochettes to sweet treats like sfenj, there’s something for every palate. For travelers wanting to dive into Moroccan culture, tasting the local street food is an essential experience.