Vegan Food in Morocco: A Guide to the Best Plant-Based Eats in the Country

Looking for vegan food in Morocco? Here’s what to eat in this wonderful country so you don’t miss out on its incredible cuisine!

If you’re a vegan traveling to Morocco, you may be wondering what options are available to you. While Moroccan cuisine is known for its meat dishes, there are plenty of vegan options to choose from.

In fact, many traditional Moroccan dishes are naturally vegan or can easily be made vegan with a few substitutions.

Vegan Food in Morocco in a Nutshell

One of the most popular vegan food in Morocco is the tagine, a slow-cooked stew typically made with vegetables, spices, and sometimes fruit.

You can find a variety of vegetable tagines on most menus, including options with eggplant, zucchini, and carrots.

Another popular vegan dish is harira, a hearty soup made with chickpeas, lentils, and tomatoes. It’s often served during Ramadan, but you can find it year-round in many restaurants.

Moroccan street food is also a great option for vegans. You can find grilled vegetables, falafel, and roasted nuts and seeds in many markets and food stalls.

Can You Find Vegan Food in Morocco?

Morocco is a country known for its rich and flavorful cuisine, but is it possible to find vegan food in Morocco? The answer is yes!

While meat and dairy products are staples in Moroccan cuisine, there are plenty of vegan options available as well.

One of the most popular vegan dishes in Morocco is called tagine. It is a slow-cooked stew made with vegetables, spices, and sometimes tofu or chickpeas. Another vegan option is harira, a traditional soup made with lentils, chickpeas, and vegetables.

Moroccan salads are also a great option for vegans. They are made with a variety of fresh vegetables and herbs, such as tomatoes, cucumbers, and parsley. Some salads may also include beans or lentils.

In addition to traditional Moroccan cuisine, there are also vegan restaurants and cafes popping up in major cities like Marrakech and Casablanca. These establishments offer a variety of vegan options, from burgers and sandwiches to smoothie bowls and desserts.

Popular Vegan Moroccan Dishes

Moroccan cuisine is known for its unique blend of flavors and spices. Although meat is a staple in many Moroccan dishes, there are plenty of vegan options available. Here are some of the most popular vegan food in Morocco:

Couscous

Couscous is a staple food in Morocco and is often served with vegetables. The dish is made from semolina wheat and is steamed in a special pot called a couscoussier.

The vegetables used in couscous can vary, but some of the most common ones include carrots, turnips, zucchini, and chickpeas. The dish is often seasoned with spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric.

Harira

Harira is a traditional Moroccan soup that is often served during Ramadan.

The soup is made with tomatoes, lentils, chickpeas, and a variety of spices like cinnamon, ginger, and saffron. It is often served with dates and a type of bread called khobz.

Tagine

Tagine is a type of stew that is named after the clay pot it is cooked in.

The dish is made with a variety of vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and bell peppers, and is often served with couscous. The stew is seasoned with spices like cumin, paprika, and cinnamon.

Vegan Street Food in Morocco

One of the best ways to experience vegan food in Morocco is by trying the street food. Here are two vegan street food options you should definitely try:

Zaalouk

Zaalouk is a traditional Moroccan salad made with eggplant and tomatoes. It’s typically served as a side dish, but it can also be enjoyed as a snack.

To make it vegan, simply skip the yogurt that’s sometimes added. The salad is seasoned with garlic, cumin, and paprika, giving it a flavorful kick.

Bissara

Bissara is a popular Moroccan soup made with fava beans. It’s often served for breakfast, but it can be enjoyed any time of day. The soup is thick and hearty, and it’s seasoned with cumin, garlic, and olive oil. It’s usually served with bread, making it a filling meal.

Both of these vegan street food options are delicious and easy to find in Morocco. They’re also affordable, making them a great choice for budget travelers.

Tips for Vegan Travelers in Morocco

Here are some tips to help you navigate your way through Moroccan cuisine as a vegan:

Look for Traditional Moroccan Vegan Dishes

Moroccan cuisine has a rich tradition of vegetarian and vegan dishes that are packed with flavor and nutrition. Some of the most popular vegan food in Morocco include:

Tagine: A slow-cooked stew made with vegetables, spices, and sometimes fruit.
: A sweet and savory pastry made with layers of phyllo dough, almonds, and a spiced vegetable filling.
Harira: A hearty soup made with chickpeas, lentils, and vegetables.
Zaalouk: A dip made with roasted eggplant, tomatoes, and spices.

Visit Vegetarian and Vegan Restaurants

Morocco has a growing number of vegetarian and vegan restaurants that cater to travelers and locals alike. These restaurants offer a variety of vegan options, from traditional Moroccan dishes to international cuisine. Some popular vegan restaurants in Morocco include:

Earth Cafe Marrakech: A cozy cafe in the heart of Marrakech that serves vegan and vegetarian dishes.
Vegan Marrakech: A restaurant in Marrakech that specializes in vegan Moroccan cuisine.
Cafe Clock: A cafe with locations in Marrakech and Fes that offers vegan and vegetarian options.

Learn Some Basic Arabic Phrases

Learning a few basic Arabic phrases can be helpful when communicating with locals and ordering food. Here are some phrases that might come in handy:

Ana nabati: “I am vegetarian”
Ana nabatiya: “I am vegan”
Ma fi shi lahm: “No meat”
Ma fi shi samak: “No fish”

Vegan Food in Morocco: Conclusion

You’ve now experienced the diverse and delicious vegan food in Morocco. From the hearty tagines to the flavorful couscous, there are plenty of options for plant-based eaters to enjoy.

When dining out, don’t be afraid to ask for vegan options or substitutions. Many restaurants are happy to accommodate dietary restrictions, and the staff are often knowledgeable about the ingredients in their dishes.

If you’re looking to cook your own meals, be sure to visit the local markets to pick up fresh produce and spices. You’ll find a wide variety of fruits and vegetables, as well as traditional Moroccan spices like cumin, coriander, and paprika.