According to the world’s best cuisine competition sponsored by Pubity Cuisine, renowned British Chef Gordon Ramsay says Morocco has the best in the world.
By Enrique Fernandez
According to Chef Gordon Ramsay, Moroccan cuisine won the world’s best cuisine competition organised by Pubity Cuisine where more than 38 million people voted.
Moroccan cuisine received more than 2.5 million votes, beating several international cuisines such as Italian, Mexican, Japanese, French and Indian.
Among Ramsey’s choix du plats included couscous, tajine, Chebakia, tangia and rafisa. He praised the diversity and unique flavours of Moroccan cuisine.
The result came as no surprise to locals, as 15 of the top 1,000 restaurants in the world are Moroccan.
The competition between Moroccan and Mexican cuisines went on until the last round before Morocco finally took the top spot for the first time in its history, as it previously ranked second in 2017 and third in 2019, both according to the British blog ‘Worldsim Travel’.
Not only does the country offer visitors an unforgettable culinary journey, but it also has cities which are known as the go-to gastronomic destinations including, Marrakech, Fez, Agadir and Rabat.
In Morocco you don’t have to spend big to eat well. Street food is an integral part of the experience. Markets offer delicious cuisines such as marinated meats, fresh seafood and traditional desserts to suit every palate.
Moroccan cuisine can be divided into starters, main courses, main courses and desserts.
Moroccan appetizers are generally served at the beginning of meals, and come with the main courses, this varies according to the region. Popular choices include a Moroccan salad of raw or cooked vegetables, briouats stuffed with chicken or minced meat, ratatouille with peppers, tomatoes known as taktouka and the famous Zaalouk (a purée of aubergine). Each dish is marinated in a unique way, highlighting its distinctive flavours and colours.
As for the main dishes, they consist of a different variety, the most important of which is couscous, which has its origins in the Amazigh tradition, a quintessential Moroccan dish that is widely enjoyed by people in homes and restaurants. This versatile and traditionally popular dish is eaten on Friday. Depending on the region, it can be served with meat, vegetables, fish, chicken or even sweet additions, and is often served with vegetable broth to enhance its flavours.
Tajine is also one of Morocco’s most beloved dishes. This dish is known for its unique cooking method and its many varieties. Ingredients such as fish, chicken, meat, vegetables and sometimes nuts, peaches and apricots are slow-cooked with a mixture of spices, which enhances its rich flavour.
Tangia is also one of Morocco’s most beloved dishes. This dish is known for its unique cooking method and its many varieties. Ingredients such as fish, chicken, meat, vegetables and sometimes nuts, peaches and apricots are slow-cooked with a mixture of spices, which enhances its rich flavour.
Harira is a traditional Moroccan soup, famous for its nutritious blend of pulses, tomatoes, pasta and flour. This delicious dish is often enjoyed during Ramadan and is served in many restaurants.
Rafissa, also known as ‘Trid’, is an ancient Moroccan dish that originated in Casablanca. This delicious dish is prepared with delicate or fed Moroccan pancakes, chicken in onion broth, coriander, Ras El Hanout, lentils and rim.
Chebakia is the second main course in Morocco, and is the country’s most popular and beloved pastry. Often served alongside Moroccan soup or as a tea supplement, this delicious dessert is traditionally prepared during the holy month of Ramadan.
These cakes feature ground almonds topped with delicate pastries with a hint of orange blossom water, and are the perfect accompaniment to fresh green tea with mint.
As for beverages, Atay or mint green tea is a festive drink deeply rooted in Moroccan tradition. This refreshing tea is usually served in small coloured cups. Whether in the city or in the countryside, it is traditionally poured from one metre high! Mint tea is often served to guests as a symbol of hospitality.
The presence of milk (fermented milk) is essential as a garnish with couscous and rib (traditional Moroccan yoghurt). In the northern regions, goat’s cheese is a staple, while in the desert, camel cheese is a delicacy worth trying. Visitors to Morocco should be sure to embark on a gastronomic exploration tour, where there will be the opportunity to explore the vibrant culinary world, from busy street souks to traditional restaurants and sample the country’s diverse dishes.
The visit will not be complete without a tour of the spice markets; where one may dive deep into the heart of Moroccan cuisine discovering the aromatic spices, which characterise Morocco’s delicious dishes.
A variety of gastronomic tours can be found in cities such as Marrakech and Casablanca, from exploring popular foods to in-depth tours focusing on local cuisine. These tours provide a unique opportunity to enjoy authentic flavours while learning about the cultural significance of each dish. In Marrakech, there are plenty of cooking classes too, where locals share family recipes in high-end hotels under the supervision of top celebrity chefs.
Notes from the Editor: This feature has been edited from its original publication here.
