The Spice of Moroccan Life - Anita Carmin
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Transcript of 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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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
The sc of
Mcc life Aa Feast For tHe eyes anD paLate
V i r t u o s o i n s i g h t s 27V i r t u o s o i n s i g h t s
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kaleidoscoe of sices givee to a Marrakech souk.
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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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