Fes: Breakfast Overlooking Medinas & the Art of the Couscous

Awakening in Fes to the mesmerizing sounds of the call to prayer echoing through the ancient medina is a unique and spiritual experience. Fes, the spiritual and cultural heart of Morocco, offers an unforgettable breakfast setting as you sit overlooking the medina’s labyrinthine alleys, surrounded by the soulful melodies of the call to prayer. This city is also famous for its culinary traditions, and one dish that shines is its intricate couscous. This delicate semolina pasta is steamed to perfection and served with rich stews and an array of vegetables. The preparation and presentation of couscous in Fes are steeped in tradition, passed down through generations, and it’s a true culinary art form. The meal isn’t just a feast for your taste buds; it’s a cultural immersion that connects you to the spiritual and culinary heart of Morocco.

Some traditional foods and dishes commonly enjoyed in Fès:

Bastilla (Pastilla): Delicate pastry filled with pigeon or chicken, almonds, and spices, topped with powdered sugar.
Couscous with Seven Vegetables: Moroccan couscous served with a hearty vegetable stew, including carrots, zucchini, and chickpeas.
Harira Soup: Nourishing soup with tomatoes, lentils, chickpeas, and a blend of spices, particularly enjoyed during Ramadan.
Mechoui: Slow-roasted whole lamb seasoned with traditional Moroccan spices for tender and flavorful meat.
Tagine with Prunes and Almonds: Slow-cooked stew with meat (commonly lamb or chicken), prunes, almonds, and aromatic spices.
Fekkas: Moroccan cookies made with almonds, sesame seeds, and anise, often served with mint tea.
Makroud: Sweet pastry filled with dates and nuts, fried until golden, sometimes coated in honey.
Briouat: Triangular pastries filled with a mix of meats, vegetables, or nuts, commonly served as appetizers.
Khlii: Preserved meat, typically beef or lamb, air-dried and preserved in a mixture of oil and spices.
Rfissa: Dish made with lentils, fenugreek, and shredded msemen (Moroccan pancakes), often prepared during special occasions.