Hello to bold flavors and exciting plates! If you are tired of the same old snacks, these 10 Moroccan appetizers are here to wake up your tastebuds.
Each bite is packed with culture and spices that totally transform your party spread.
1. Moroccan Kefta Kabobs
You absolutely cannot miss out on Kefta kabobs. The succulent beef gets seasoned with harissa and cumin and turmeric for a flavor that is out of this world.
Three types of fresh herbs add brightness while the grill brings that perfect char. It tastes just like street food but you get to eat it right at home with your friends.
2. Moroccan Fava Bean Soup (Bissara)
Fava beans might not seem exciting on their own but this recipe changes everything. Bissara is a thick and creamy vegan soup that packs a serious punch with six cloves of garlic.
Hints of cumin and ginger make it sensationally flavorful. Grab a piece of crusty bread because you will want to sop up every single drop.
3. Moroccan Potato Cakes (Maakouda)
Do you want a starter that you know your guests will love? Serve Maakouda because it is basically a big mashed potato cake.
You mash spuds with garlic and herbs before dusting them in flour and dropping them in the fryer. The outside gets crispy while the inside stays tender and perfect for dipping in spicy harissa yogurt sauce.
4. Moroccan Pita (Batbout)
Batbout is a special type of Moroccan pita bread that also goes by names like mkhamer or toghrift. You cook this dough on the stove instead of in the oven.
It puffs up as it cooks to form a big pillowy pocket that is perfect for sandwiches. Serve it with zaalouk for an authentic experience that your friends will adore.
5. Moroccan Cigar
These savory bites will totally steal the show at your next gathering. They are a traditional appetizer for celebrations that look just like a cigar when rolled up.
The filling is usually beef or lamb but this version uses Impossible Burgers. That means more of your guests can enjoy the crunchy and delicious fun.
6. Moroccan Cooked Eggplant Salad (Zaalouk)
Zaalouk will change how you think about salad. This dish is actually a dip rather than a bowl of leafy greens.
It is a robust blend of tomatoes and herbs and eggplant that cooks in one pot. You can eat it hot or cold but I love it with a side of warm pita bread.
7. Classic Moroccan Tomato Salad
This classic salad works for big feasts or just simple summer snacking. It bursts with juicy tomatoes and fresh cilantro and red onion.
Olive oil and cumin let the natural flavors shine in a way that is fresh and simple. You can make it in just 10 minutes so it is a great recipe to memorize.
8. Moroccan Chicken Pastilla
Pastilla is a North African stuffed pie that is a total favorite in Morocco. The filling features chicken seasoned with cinnamon and cumin plus roasted almonds for texture.
Cilantro adds a hint of freshness to the mix. You can use phyllo dough if you cannot find the traditional pastry sheets at the store.
9. Moroccan Chickpea and Lentil Soup (Harira)
This mouthwatering soup works as a first course or the main event. Harira usually includes meat but this version is vegetarian and hearty thanks to lentils and chickpeas.
A robust tomato base gets loaded with onions and garlic and heaps of spices. Serve it with a dollop of yogurt and some toasted almonds.
10. Moroccan Almond & Pistachio Briouat
If you enjoy baklava then you need to try this briouat. It is a phyllo pastry that gets brushed with butter and stuffed with a nut filling infused with orange blossom water.
The triangles soak in honey after baking for a truly sweet treat. Put this dessert on the menu to impress your guests.