Morocco may be famous for its lamb tagines and grilled meats, but its culinary heritage offers a treasure trove of vegan-friendly delights.
Marrakech – Rooted in fresh produce, fragrant spices, and time-honored cooking techniques, Moroccan dishes are a vegan’s dream come true.
Tagines
A Plant-Powered Twist on the Classic
Tagines are Morocco’s most iconic dish, and vegan versions are just as satisfying. Popular options include:
Vegetable Tagine: Packed with seasonal vegetables like zucchini, carrots, potatoes, and olives, slow-cooked in a savory sauce.
Chickpea and Tomato Tagine: Featuring protein-packed chickpeas in a zesty tomato base spiced with paprika and cumin.
Insider Tip: Ask for m’semen bread instead of khobz, as khobz sometimes contains milk.
Bissara
Bissa is a vegan staple, especially in colder months. Drizzled with olive oil and sprinkled with cumin, it’s often serve with warm bread.
Zaalouk
A beloved dip made with roasted eggplant, tomatoes, garlic, and spices like paprika and cumin.
Perfect as a side dish or spread. Pair it with warm pita or crackers.
Couscous with vegetables
While couscous is traditionally served with meat, the vegetable-only version is still a must-try.
Fluffy semolina is topped with an array of steamed vegetables like carrots, zucchini, and pumpkin, seasoned with cinnamon and saffron.
Harira
Morocco’s famous soup can easily be made vegan.
Traditionally made with lentils, chickpeas, tomatoes, and a blend of spices, harira can be prepared without meat or eggs to accommodate the plant-based diet.
It’s often enjoyed during Ramadan but is also a year-round comfort food.
Taktouka
Similar to zaalouk, taktouka combines roasted tomatoes and green peppers with garlic and olive oil. It’s light, fresh, and pairs perfectly with crusty bread.
Salads galore
Moroccan salads are vibrant, creative, and naturally plant-based. Some favorites include:
Carrot Salad: Spiced with orange blossom, cinnamon, and a touch of sugar.
Cucumber-Tomato Salad: Tossed with parsley and lemon dressing.
Beet Salad: Earthy, sweet, and refreshing with a hint of vinegar.
Moroccan bread and olives
Whether it’s m’semen (a flaky bread) or batbout (a fluffy pocket bread), Moroccan bread is often vegan-friendly.
Pair it with locally cured olives for a simple yet satisfying bite.
Sweet endings
While many Moroccan desserts use butter or honey, some are naturally vegan, like:
Sellou: A nutty, spiced mix of roasted sesame seeds and almonds, typically served dry.
Orange Slices with Cinnamon: A refreshing dessert that highlights Morocco’s citrus bounty.
Although it may seem daunting in a place known for its sheep dishes and chicken tajines, the reality is that being vegan in Morocco is a flavorful adventure, with dishes as colorful and varied as the country itself.
