In Morocco, tea is far more than just a beverage—it’s a symbol of hospitality, a cornerstone of social interaction, and an art form steeped in tradition. Known as atai or Maghrebi mint tea, this fragrant, sweet drink is an integral part of Moroccan culture. Whether you’re invited into a local home, browsing a bustling souk, or relaxing in a riad, the ritual of preparing and serving Moroccan tea is an experience you can’t miss. Here’s everything you need to know about this cherished tradition.
Tea was introduced to Morocco in the 18th century, likely through trade with Europe. However, it was the British who popularized tea in the region during the 19th century, and Moroccans quickly made it their own by adding fresh mint and sugar. Today, Moroccan mint tea is a national drink, enjoyed multiple times a day and deeply woven into the fabric of daily life.
The simplicity of Moroccan tea belies its complex flavors. The three key ingredients are:
Green Tea: Traditionally, Chinese gunpowder green tea is used for its robust flavor and ability to withstand the addition of mint and sugar.
Fresh Mint: Spearmint is the most commonly used variety, prized for its refreshing aroma and taste.
Sugar: Moroccan tea is famously sweet, with sugar cubes or granulated sugar added to taste.
Some variations include additional herbs like sage, wormwood (sheeba), or lemon verbena for extra depth of flavor.
The preparation of Moroccan tea is an art form, often performed with flair and precision. Here’s how it’s done:
Rinse the Tea: The green tea leaves are rinsed with a small amount of boiling water to remove bitterness.
Steep the Tea: Fresh mint and sugar are added to the teapot, followed by boiling water. The tea is left to steep for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
The Pour: The tea is poured from a height into small, ornate glasses. This not only aerates the tea, creating a frothy top, but also showcases the server’s skill. The higher the pour, the more impressive the display.
The process is often repeated multiple times, with the first pour being the strongest and subsequent pours becoming lighter as more water and mint are added.
Moroccan tea is more than just a drink—it’s a gesture of hospitality and friendship. Serving tea to guests is a way of welcoming them into one’s home and showing respect. It’s also a social activity, often enjoyed during family gatherings, business meetings, or casual conversations in the medina. Refusing a cup of tea is considered impolite, so be prepared to accept at least one glass!
At Home: If you’re invited to a Moroccan home, tea will almost certainly be served. It’s a chance to connect with locals and experience their warmth and generosity.
In the Souks: While shopping in the bustling markets, vendors often offer tea as a way to build rapport and encourage you to browse their wares.
In Riads and Cafés: Many traditional guesthouses and cafés serve tea as part of their daily routine, often accompanied by pastries like msemen or chebakia.
Sip Slowly: Moroccan tea is meant to be savored, not rushed. Take your time and enjoy the moment.
Hold the Glass Properly: Use your right hand to hold the glass, as the left hand is considered unclean in Moroccan culture.
Accept Seconds (or Thirds): It’s customary to have multiple glasses of tea, so don’t hesitate to accept refills.
Learn the Lingo: If you want to impress your host, say “B’ssaha!” (to your health) before taking your first sip.
If you fall in love with Moroccan tea (and you likely will), you can recreate the experience at home. All you need is a traditional Moroccan teapot (berrad), gunpowder green tea, fresh mint, and sugar. Don’t forget to pour from a height to capture the essence of the ritual!
Moroccan tea is more than just a drink—it’s a window into the country’s soul. It reflects the warmth, generosity, and artistry of Moroccan culture. Whether you’re sipping tea in a bustling medina, a tranquil riad, or a local home, this ritual is an unforgettable part of any journey to Morocco. So, the next time you’re offered a glass of mint tea, take a moment to appreciate the history, craftsmanship, and hospitality that go into every pour. B’ssaha!
