Discovering the Allure of Moroccan Sweets
Discovering the allure of Moroccan
sweets is like entering a colorful and flavorsome world of delight.
Moroccan sweets are an array of
incredibly sweet, mouth-watering treats that are loved by locals and tourists
alike. From traditional gumy sweets to creamy baklavas, each treat has its own
unique flavor profile and texture. There is something for everyone, whether it
be a sticky sweet or something savory.
Traveling through Morocco as a
tourist, you can find these sweets in almost every part of the country, from
the souks in Marrakech to local bakeries in smaller villages. Whether you're
shopping for souvenirs or looking to satisfy your sweet tooth, you will find a
variety of fascinating sweet temptations that are sure to tantalize your taste
buds.
In this article, we’ll explore the
allure of Moroccan sweets and why they have become so popular around the world.
We’ll also learn about some common varieties and where to find them.
Classic
Moroccan Sweets: Gazelle Horns and Chebakia
Moroccan sweets are a unique
traditions deeply rooted in the country’s culture. Among the most beloved are
gazelle horns and chebakia.
Gazelle horns, also called mkharka,
are crescent-shaped cookies made with an almond paste and sprinkled with sesame
seeds. They’re often filled with either tahini or date paste, both of which are
popular ingredients in middle eastern cooking. Theses cookies remain one of the
most traditional desserts today because of their delicious flavor profile and
their use throughout Moroccan ceremonies, such as weddings or births.
Chebakia is a pastry that is shaped
into a flower and deep-fried in oil until golden brown. After being drained on
paper towels, each pastry is then coated in honey syrup flavored with orange
flower water or rose water. The morsels become crispy on the outside and melt
in your mouth on the inside. Chebakia is often served during Eid al-Fitr—the
festival marking the end of Ramadan—alongside other classic dishes like harira
soup or couscous.
Almond
and Pistachio Pastries: Makroud and Kaab El Ghzal
Moroccan sweets often feature
almonds and pistachios, which add an unforgettable flavor and texture to these
delightful desserts. Two classic examples are makroud and kaab el ghzal.
It is traditionally cut into diamond
shapes, deep fried until golden, drenched with honey and finally sprinkled with
sesame or almonds. Its crunchy texture gives way to a sweet and chewy center
that makes it absolutely addicting. Meanwhile, kaab el ghzal is a
crescent-shaped pastry filled with ground almonds and then deep fried, giving
it its characteristic crunchy exterior. It's not as sweet as its makroud
cousin, but makes for a plentiful snack thanks to its rich flavor complemented
by an aromatic scent of orange blossom water.
It's no wonder why both of these
classic desserts have been enjoyed in Morocco for centuries! From their unique
textures to their unforgettable flavor profiles, these pastries can be easily
incorporated into special occasions - making them a must-have when feasting
with friends and family.
Moroccan
Candy: Halva, Turkish Delight and Sugared Almonds
Moroccan candy is a sweet delight
that is sure to please. This country has been perfecting the art of
confectionary-making for centuries, and it shows. One of the most popular
confections in Morocco is Halva, a type of fudge made with sesame paste, sugar
and nuts. The result is a unique combination of textures and flavors that can't
be found anywhere else in the world.
Turkish delight, or Lokum as it's
known in Morocco, is another popular treat. It's made from cornstarch, sugar
syrup, rose water and almonds, creating a delicate flavor profile that will
tantalize any palate.
Sugared almonds are also part of the
Moroccan tradition, typically presented as gifts during special occasions like
weddings. They are covered with sugar syrup and dyed in vibrant shades to add
an extra splash of color to a special day.
The sweetness of these treats will
stay with you long after you've finished your last bite, reminding you why
Moroccan sweets are so sought after around the world.
Moroccan
Biscuits and Cookies: Cornes De Gazelle and Ghriba
Moroccan sweets have taken the world
by storm and no wonder why - from the crunchy and aromatic cornes de gazelle to
the light and buttery ghriba, these biscuits and cookies offer a unique taste
experience.
Cornes
De Gazelle
Cornes de gazelle are
crescent-shaped cookies made with almonds and orange blossom water, giving them
a slightly sweet, nutty flavor. They are delicately dusted with sugar for a
hint of sweetness and crunch. Enjoy these light and crunchy treats on their own
or pair them with some Moroccan mint tea for an authentic experience.
Ghriba
Ghriba are buttery coconut
macaroon-style cookies that melt in your mouth. They are made with almond
flour, butter, honey or sugar syrup and plenty of melted coconut for an intense
flavor experience. Enjoy them as a snack on their own or add some traditional
flavors like sesame seeds, cinnamon or orange blossom water for an even more
indulgent treat.
Moroccan
Fritters: Beghrir, Baghrir and Chebakia
Moroccan fritters are an ideal way
to add some old-world sweetness to your day. Let's take a closer look at some
traditional favorites: Beghrir, Baghrir and Chebakia.
Beghrir are light and spongy
pancakes made with semolina flour, yeast and warm water. The texture is unique
thanks to thousands of small holes that adorn the surface. When served with
honey or jam, it makes for a delightful snack.
Baghrir is another popular fritter,
made with a thin batter of semolina, flour and yeast. When poured onto the
griddle, Baghrir quickly forms hundreds of small bubbles on its surface, which
gives it an interesting layered appearance when served.
Then there's Chebakia - a deep-fried
sesame cookie that looks like flower petals. It is made from dough or almond
paste seasoned with cinnamon and orange blossom water, then deep fried in oil
until golden brown. This holiday treat is usually served during the Eid al-Adha
feast to celebrate the end of Ramadan.
So, if you're looking for a sweet
indulgence that transports your taste buds back in time, try one – or all – of
these traditional Moroccan treats!
Where
to Find Moroccan Sweets in Singapore
Are you ready to embark on a
delicious journey to discover the allure of Moroccan sweets? You can find these
delightful treats in several places in Singapore.
Local
Grocery Stores
You can find a variety of Moroccan
sweets in local grocery stores. Look for the large, colorful packages filled
with sweet pastries and confections such as baklava, nougat and mandarinello.
Some stores even offer freshly-made halwa and ma'amoul straight from Morocco!
Specialty
Stores
If you are looking for a wider
selection, specialty stores are your best bet. These stores specialize in
selling authentic Moroccan products and offer a variety of sweet treats like
hazelnut-based ma'amoul and honeyed sfouf cake. You can also find popular
snacks such as almonds or dates coated with sugar crystals.
Bakeries
Moroccan bakeries are another option
for those looking to try out traditional Moroccan sweets. These shops offer
freshly-baked goodies like chebbakia, mhancha and makroudh pastries that are
sure to tantalize your taste buds!
Conclusion
Morocco is a country steeped in
culture and tradition, and part of that includes a unique array of sweets and
delicacies. From delicious baklava to zesty ghriba, those who visit this
bustling nation can’t help but enjoy the warm hospitality and the amazing food
the locals provide.
Whether you’re in Marrakech, Fez or
Chefchaouen, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your sweet tooth. With
plenty of stalls and shops that offer everything from colorful macarons to
sweet dates and honey, there’s no shortage of delicious delights to try on your
journey.
So if you’re ever looking for a
unique way to experience Morocco, why not take the time to explore its
incredible selection of sweet treats? You’re sure to be delighted by the
experience.