What is Moroccan Couscous?

Moroccan Couscous is a traditional dish in North Africa, made every Friday when all the family gathers around the table to enjoy the delicious flavour of couscous. Couscous is a colourful dish made of tiny, steamed balls of semolina flour (a type of wheat) and water, topped with meat of your choice, a mix of cooked vegetables and a tasty broth.

From what is Moroccan Couscous made? 

As you’re making your first Moroccan Couscous, you want to begin with: 

The couscous:

• 1kg of semolina flour (made from durum wheat, commonly used in pasta).
• 6 cups of water.
• 1/4 cup of olive oil or vegetable oil.
• 3 tsp of salt.

The meat and broth:

• 1 kg of your preferred meat (lamb, beef, goat, or chicken).
• 3 fresh tomatoes (peeled and coarsely chopped).
• 1 large onion.
• 1/4 cup of olive oil or vegetable oil.
• 1 1/2 tbsp of salt.
• 1 tbsp of ginger.
• 1 tbsp of pepper.
• 1 tsp of turmeric.
• A handful of parsley and cilantro sprigs tied into a bouquet.

The vegetables:

• 1/2 cup of dried chickpeas (soaked overnight).
• 1 small head of cabbage (cut in half or quartered).
• 3 medium turnips (peeled and cut in half).
• 5 to 7 carrots (peeled).
• 4 or 5 small courgettes (ends trimmed, or 8-ball round cut in half).
• 2 small tomatoes (peeled, seeded, and quartered).
• 2 small onions (cut in half).
• 2 or 3 potatoes (peeled and cut in half).
• 1 small acorn squash (quartered).

Once you have all these ingredients ready, you’re probably wondering what’s next, right? You can start preparing your delicious Moroccan Couscous!

How to cook Moroccan Couscous. 

Now you’ve finished preparing all the ingredients, let’s begin the cooking: 

1. The first thing I suggest doing is to soak the dried chickpeas in water overnight.
2. Brown the meat or chicken with oil, onion, tomatoes and spices in a large pot until a thick and rich sauce forms.
3. Add the soaked chickpeas, parsley/cilantro bouquet and water. Cover and cook for about 30 minutes.
4. Add oil over the couscous and toss it between your hands to distribute the oil evenly.
5. Add water and work it into the couscous the same way until well blended.
6. Steam the couscous for 15 to 20 minutes.
7. Return the couscous to the bowl and work in water as before.
8. Add salt and more water, and steam for another 15 to 20 minutes.
9. Add turnips and carrots to the pot and cook while working more water into the couscous.
10. Steam the couscous again until light and fluffy.
11. Arrange the couscous into a mound and make an indentation in the middle to hold the meat.
12. Place the meat in the center, and arrange the other vegetables around it.
13. Garnish with chickpeas, chili peppers, and the parsley bouquet if desired.
14. Add broth over the couscous and offer the remaining broth in bowls on the side.

Moroccan Couscous: Regional Variations.

Some Moroccan regions have their own varieties of couscous unique to the area. Here is a quick look at three of them. 

Tfaya Couscous.

The Tfaya couscous includes almonds and raisins instead of the vegetables and is also known as the Fes couscous as it is popular in this region. It sometimes replaces the other meats with veal. The almonds (500 g) are peeled and gently fried in oil. After preparation, the couscous is made into a cone with the meat on top, the chickpeas around that and then the almonds further down with the raisins (500 g) at the base of the cone. The mound is covered with a little of the sauce and a teaspoon of powdered cinnamon is sprinkled over the top as decoration.   

Berkoukes Couscous. 

A traditional southern Moroccan dish, this is an Amazigh/Berber dish with Amlou instead of the other ingredients added to the couscous, so no chickpeas, vegetables, almonds, or raisins are required.  The couscous is prepared as normal and placed on a large round plate and in the centre of the couscous mound is placed a small bowl of Amlou. Amlou is a rich sauce from the Souss region made from ground almonds, argan oil and honey. The meal is accompanied by Argan oil and sour milk.  

Soussi Couscous.

Soussi couscous is popular in the Sous-Massa area of south west Morocco from Agadir to the Algerian border. It is almost a combination of the traditional couscous and the Berkoukes couscous. After the couscous is prepared and placed on the family-sized plate, some of the sauce is added, then the meat and vegetables are arranged on the bed of couscous as usual. The preferred vegetables are onions, courgettes, carrots and turnips, all cut in half lengthways, and a couple of grated tomatoes and a 400 g pumpkin cut into eight pieces. More sauce is added. The dish is then served with a large cup of Amlou and Argan oil mixed with sour milk and powdered thyme.

FAQs about Moroccan Couscous.

From what is Moroccan Couscous made?

Moroccan couscous is made from two main ingredients; semolina flour and water. Semolina is a type of flour made from durum wheat and is commonly used in various traditional pasta dishes. When mixed with water, it forms the basis of delicious Moroccan couscous.

Is Couscous a protein or a carb?

Couscous is mainly a carb since it is made from wheat. Although it does have some protein, the amount of carbohydrates in each serving is much higher. So, it’s mostly classified as a carb-rich food.

Is Moroccan Couscous a grain?

Even though it looks similar to grains like barley, quinoa, or rice, Moroccan couscous is not a grain. It is actually a type of pasta. Both pearl couscous and Moroccan couscous are made using semolina flour and water, just like traditional pasta.

How healthy is Couscous for you?

Whole-grain couscous is considered healthy because it is a good source of fiber. Fiber is beneficial in many ways. It can prevent sudden spikes in blood sugar and make you feel full for a longer time. Additionally, it plays a role in reducing cholesterol levels, which can lower the risk of heart disease. So, including whole-grain couscous in your diet can be a healthy choice.

Moroccan Couscous Recipe
Must Visit Morocco

Despite the fact that Morocco is not an expensive country, especially for foreigners, you still can stretch those euros even further and visit Morocco on a budget without compromising on your Moroccan experience.

From sightseeing to food and accommodation, here are the best ways to Visit Morocco on a budget.

Visit Marrakech on a Budget

You can’t visit Morocco without giving a visit to the Red City, Marrakesh, so here’s a glimpse of budget-friendly experiences that Marrakech offers and that will allow you to enjoy your trip to fully experience the city’s culture, history, and vibrant atmosphere without straining your wallet:

• Jardin Majorelle: Explore this stunning botanical garden filled with vibrant colours and exotic plants. It’s an oasis of tranquillity in the centre of the city. The best time to visit the Majorelle garden is early in the morning when it opens.
• Explore Bahia Palace: One of Marrakech’s most important architectural structures that allow you to experience the opulent world of Moroccan building design. You can admire the detailed tile patterns, peaceful inner yards, and vibrant green gardens, all in one place.
• Experience Jemaa el-Fnaa: The Jemaa el-Fna square is one of the main cultural exchange spaces in Marrakech. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Marrakech’s main square. From snake charmers, who should not be supported, to Moroccan cultural traditions performed through musical, religious, and artistic expressions, and food stalls, it’s a sensory overload that shouldn’t be missed.
• Explore the Koutoubia Mosque: Marvel at the impressive architecture of the Koutoubia Mosque, the largest mosque in Marrakech. Travellers of all religions can visit Koutoubia’s plaza and gardens for free.
• Take a Day Trip to the Atlas Mountains: Escape the city for a day and go to the breathtaking Atlas Mountains. Hike scenic trails, visit traditional Berber villages, and enjoy panoramic views without breaking your budget.

Now, what we do know is that for every traveller, the best way to avoid expensive accommodation is to travel outside of peak season. However, you can still travel whenever you want if you are ready to stay in hostels because they are the best option for someone seeking to visit Morocco on a budget.

Here are the best hostels you can stay in while enjoying your Marrakesh trip:

• Hostel Dream Belko: 14 Derb Sbaia Kasbah, Marrakech 20000 Morocco.
• Hostel Riad Marrakech Rouge: Riad Zitoune Jdid Derb Zenka Dika, No. 40, Marrakech 40000 Morocco.

Read also: Where to shop in Marrakech

Visit Chefchaouen on a budget

Chefchaouen is a charming city located in the Rif Mountains of northwest Morocco. It’s one of the most captivating destinations that attracts visitors with its stunning blue-painted streets, houses, and buildings. It’s the perfect spot for travellers wanting to visit Morocco on a budget and seeking tranquillity, beauty, and a glimpse into Morocco’s diverse cultural tapestry. 

The Medina: Chefchaouen, like every other ancient city of Morocco, exudes undeniable beauty and cultural richness. However, what sets it apart is the unique tapestry of its individual history, culture, and costumes just waiting to be discovered. This city is absolutely one of those cities that will get every visitor lost in its charming blue alleyways.

Akchour and Ras El ma Waterfalls: The best spot for anyone who wants an escape from the city. The crystal-clear waters and the soothing sounds of rushing water mesmerise visitors and create an unforgettable experience that showcases the natural charm of the region.

Outa El Hammam Square: Located in the centre of the city’s medina, surrounded by blue and white buildings, pavement cafes, restaurants, and markets that offer a variety of local goods and souvenirs, this square creates a unique and vibrant atmosphere.

Just like we mentioned before one of the secrets in planning a budget-friendly Moroccan adventure is staying in hostels, so here are a few you can stay in on your trip to Chafchaouen:

• Riad Baraka- Chefchaouen: 12 Derb Ben Yakoub, Chefchaouen 91000 Morocco
• Chefchaouen hotel: Quartier Znika Rue Hawta, Chefchaouen 91000 Morocco
• Hotel Mauritania: No. 15 Rue Kadi Alami, Chefchaouen 91000 Morocco
• Pension Cordoba: 36 Rue Granada, Chefchaouen 91000 Morocco

Visit Tangier on a budget

Tangier is a city where you can find a mix of cultures; from North Africa to Spain, Portugal and France, too. The city is located in northern Morocco and it’s so close to Europe that, on a clear, sunny day, you can see Spain across the straits.

Cafe Hafa is a meeting point for intellectuals, artists and bohemians, as well as the perfect spot for a traditional Moroccan mint tea while you’re chilling with your friends or on your own and enjoying one of the best views in the city above a low cliff overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.

The cafe is located in the Marshan of Tangier, a more residential area on a hill just above the Kasbah.

American Legation Museum: What a lot of people seem not to know about Morocco is that it was one of the first countries in the world to recognize the USA as a nation and this Museum conveys the history of the relationship between the US and Morocco. The museum is a must-visit when you’re in Tangier, especially for Americans.

Tangier Kasbah is one of the most beautiful spots to visit in the city. Situated in the upper part of the medina where you get to feel the rich history of Tangier. The kasbah has served as the region’s military and political centre since the Roman era.

Cap Spartel is a great spot for tranquillity and beautiful landscapes to immortalise in your memory. Cap Spartel is located 14 kilometres west of Tangier, famous for its beautiful cliff view where the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean meet. Everyone coming to Tangier shouldn’t miss a visit to Cap Spartel.

Hercules Cave: The first thing that catches your attention about this cave is its name; according to the myth it’s called Hercules Cave because Hercules (the character from Greek and Roman mythology) slept there during his quest to fetch three golden apples from the Garden of the Hesperides.

The cave is known for the famous crack in the rock that resembles the outline of Africa which allows you to catch a glimpse of the deep blue tones of the sea through the fissure.

The Cave of Hercules is situated below Cape Spartel and could be reached from Robinson Plage.

Wondering where to stay on your visit to Tangier? we’ve got you.

• The Medina Hostel: Rue Abaroudi n 14, Tangier 90000 Morocco
• Tangier Kasbah Hostel: Rue Sidi Jalil, Tangier 90030 Morocco

Read also: Where to shop in Tangier

Visit Fes on a budget

Fes is a city rich in history and culture, famous for its historic sites, including the University of Al Quaraouiyine, the oldest working university in the world, the Al-Attarine Madrasa, Bou Inania Madrasa and the fascinating Chouara Tannery. Also known for its traditional arts and crafts, including pottery, ceramics, and leatherwork, Fes is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Moroccan history and culture.

Fes El Bali: also known as the old city or The Medina, is an introduction to the rich history and architectural beauty of Fes. It’s famous for its narrow, winding streets, the bustling souks are full of vibrant colours, exotic scents and a wide array of goods, including spices, textiles, carpets, jewellery and other traditional Moroccan products, as well as historic mosques and Medersa (Islamic schools) decorated with stunning architecture.

Al-Qarawiyyin Mosque and University: The world’s oldest continuously operating university, founded in the 9th century, Characterised by a long-standing reputation for academic excellence, attracting students from all over the world and famous for a range of disciplines, including Islamic studies, theology, Arabic language, law, sciences, and humanities. 

Medersa Bou Inania: Another Islamic school rich in architectural beauty and historical significance. Today, Medersa Bou Inania is open to the public, so everyone can appreciate its architectural splendour and historical past. It offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Fes and the enduring legacy of Islamic education

Mellah (Jewish Quarter): The Mellah, or the Jewish Quarter, used to be a residential area and cultural hub for Jewish residents of Fes and the surrounding regions. Today it represents a symbol of tolerance and harmony between Jewish and Muslim communities in Morocco.

Discover affordable accommodations that still offer comfort and convenience for your stay in Fes:

• Dar ATLANTICA – Fes: 10 Arsat Jiar Zenfour Bab El Guissa, Fes 30000 Morocco 
• Dar ELINOR: Fes, 8 Derb Benani Ziat Douh, Fes 30000 Morocco
• Fes Touria Palace: 9, Derb Sidi Youssef, Nekhalin Fès-L’Ancien, Fes 30200 Morocco
• BackHome Fes: 15 Derb Bennani Douh Batha Fez, Fes 30000 Morocco

Read also: Where to shop in Fez?

Visit Essaouira on a budget

A beautiful coastal city, Essaouira, is located in the western region of Morocco where you can: 

• Visit the Medina: Explore the narrow streets of Essaouira’s Medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where you can wander by the charming blue and white buildings, browse through local shops, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere.

• Discover the Skala de la ville: One of the magnificent architectural landmarks in Essaouira. Exploring the Skala de la Ville allows you to soak up Essaouira’s rich history while admiring the breathtaking scenery that surrounds it.
• Attend the Gnawa and World Music Festival: A Moroccan festival that serves to promote Gnaoua culture. You can attend a live performance of Gnawa to be able to absorb yourself in the hypnotic rhythms and soulful melodies of this traditional African-inspired music.
• Visit the Sidi Mohammed Ben Abdallah Museum: The museum gives you the chance to enjoy Essaouira’s rich history and art scene and discover traditional Moroccan artefacts, historical exhibits and contemporary artworks. The entry cost for foreigners is 60 Dirhams and 20 Dirhams for locals.

Affordable hostels for your trip to Essaouira:

• Dar loulema: 2 Rue Souss, Essaouira 44000 Morocco
• Essaouira Beach hostel: Rue Lalla Hasna n18, 44000 Essaouira, Morocco

Visit Morocco on a Budget – Moroccan Cuisine

When it comes to Moroccan cuisine, it is an adventure like no other that will allow you to enjoy the flavours of Morocco without breaking the bank. Here are the local, must-try dishes on your visit to Morocco:

Mint tea: It is the staple of Moroccan hospitality and can be found everywhere in the country.

Tangia: An iconic dish exclusive to Marrakech. Prepared in a traditional clay pot called a Tangia, this slow-cooked meat masterpiece is a must-try when exploring the flavours of the city. Don’t miss the opportunity to savour this authentic Moroccan delight during your visit to Marrakech.

Harira: is the most famous, traditional soup in Morocco and my personal favourite dish. It is made with tomatoes, lentils, chickpeas, fresh herbs and meat. Noone visits Morocco without trying Harira.

Snail soup or as it is called in Morocco, Babbouche: A dish originating in Morocco, it is made with snails that are cooked slowly in a bouillon containing thyme, anise, gum Arabic, mint and other ingredients. 

Bistilla: Bastila or Pastilla is a traditional Moroccan pastry dish that combines sweet and savoury flavours. It’s made with layers of thin filo pastry, spiced shredded chicken or pigeon meat, eggs, almonds, cinnamon, saffron and ginger, and is topped with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and ground cinnamon before serving. 

Read also: Moroccan cuisine: a culture you can taste

Conclusion

For every passionate traveller wanting to visit Morocco on a budget, let us assure you that Morocco is an irresistible destination where you can immerse yourself in the culture and create lifelong memories without spending vast amounts of money. Follow our guide and experience the richness and beauty of Morocco without breaking the bank.

Top Cheap Morocco Tours In 2024

Visit Morocco on a Budget
Must Visit Morocco

While activities like camel trekking, desert tours, or Hot Air Balloon Ride aren’t free and can be costly, there are numerous other activities you can enjoy without having to pay for them.

This North African country provides a wide variety of things to see and experience, including many different places to visit and opportunities to engage with its rich culture.

So, to help you enjoy your time in Morocco without worrying about your budget, we have highlighted some Free Things to consider when planning your trip to Morocco:

Lose yourself in the Medinas of Morocco

Walking through the Medinas of Morocco is like stepping into a maze of alleyways that can lead you to unexpected discoveries. Each Medina has its own unique charm and beauty, they are usually surrounded by walls and filled with narrow streets, and busy marketplaces.

What you should know is that Medina is not only a place to shop or explore; it’s also an adventure that will tantalize your taste buds, you can experience authentic Moroccan cuisine, from street food stalls serving flavorful tagines and freshly baked bread to cozy cafés offering mint tea.

We think these 5 Medinas are the best to visit in Morocco:

• Fez
• Marrakesh
• Essaouira
• Chefchaouen
• Rabat

Souks – Street markets

Souk is a traditional Arabic market for everyday products. However, in Moroccan Medinas Souk is more like a bazaar, a huge market where you can find everything from food, clothing, shoes, traditional rugs, and ceramics fabrics to jewelry.

If you ever visit Morocco, you should never miss on visiting Moroccan souks, they are great places to get closer to the culture of Moroccans, even if you aren’t intending to shop – but let’s be honest who goes to Souks without coming back with at least one souvenir for himself or for his beloved ones?!

Now we’ll highlight some of the must-visit Souks in Morocco:

• Souk Al’Attarine: A spice square where you can find any spice you want.
• Souk Fekharine: Pottery market where plates, tajines, and bowls are made and sold.
• Souk Semmarine: the main focal point of the souks in Marrakech where you’ll find other smaller individual souks.
• Jamaa El Fena: most visited in Marrakesh, it’s a marketplace known for street food stalls, orange juice vendors, and argan oil.

• Souk  Derb Ghallef: A very famous market in Casablanca, known for good deals when buying electronic products. 
• Souk Derb Omar: Also in Casablanca, it’s the largest market in Morocco, known for clothing, and cosmetics.

Visit the Historic sites of Morocco

Losing yourself in the Souks or in the Medinas of Morocco is cool, but there is more to this country; a depth that goes beyond its beauty and that is its historical sites.

Visiting the Historic sites is one of the free things to do in Morocco if you want to explore the North African country’s rich history, and because we know it can be confusing where to begin, we’ve made it easy for you, Don’t worry!

Chouara Tannery: Visiting Chouara Tannery in Fez City is a unique experience, you get to explore one of the largest and oldest tanneries in the country, where animals’ skins are processed in order to make leather for human use. what makes this tannery even more unique is that you’ll see how leather used to be made years from now.

The Oudaya Kasbah: Located in Rabat city and constructed in the 12th century and restored several times over the years, it has served as a dwelling for Arab tribes, Andalusian immigrants, and influential Moroccan sultans. Today it is considered one of the country’s most unique sites. and is the first milestone of the city of Rabat.

The Ancient Roman City Volubilis: Located between the Imperial Cities of Fez and Meknes, in the foothills of the Zerhoun massif. Volubilis is the largest site in Morocco with a surface of 18 hectares, and it’s an open space for everyone to explore.

Ksser Ait Ben Hadou: A mud town located in southern Morocco, about 30 kilometers from the city of Ouarzazate. If you’re Games of Thrones fan then you shouldn’t miss on this iconic stop.

Ait Ben Haddou is one of the most attractive places for tourists due to its unique architecture and incredibly magical ambiance and also because Ait Ben Haddou has been a set for many movies including Game of Thrones, Gladiator, The Mummy, Lawrence of Arabia, and many more.

Attend Festivals and Cultural Events

Morocco, as a country with a rich cultural Heritage, has numerous festivals to enjoy. and because we know well that you’re looking for FREE things to do in Morocco we’ve made a list of festivals that you can attend for free:

Fes’ World Sacred Music Festival is an annual music event that takes place in Fez City in the middle of summer, specifically in late May or early June. This festival serves as a 10 days celebration to honor international artists from all over the world, representing diverse religious backgrounds from Muslim, Jewish, Christian, and Hindu, to other faiths. the main purpose of this event is to showcase the rich diversity of spiritual music from around the world.

Gnaoua and World Music Festival is one of Morocco’s major cultural events, which is held each June for four days in Essaouira. The event celebrates the vibrant and spiritual Gnaoua music, which is deeply rooted in the culture of Morocco as well as other various genres of music such as jazz, African blues, rock, and American.

In addition to music performances, the Gnaoua Festival also features exhibitions, workshops, and discussions on Gnaoua culture, history, and spirituality.

Kalaat Mgouna Rose Festival is a cultural event held in the town of El-Kelaa M’Gouna, located in the Valley of Roses in Morocco, and takes place in May, coinciding with the blooming season of roses. You will lose yourself in the exquisite rose displays, divine food, and a lot of Amazigh ( Berber) music and dance performances which add a lively and festive ambiance.

International Nomads Festival is one of the most important festivals in the south of Morocco, it usually takes place in March, in M’hamid El Ghizlane.

During this Festival, you can expect a range of cultural activities and performances as many nations come together to celebrate with music, poetry, storytelling, and cultural dances, as well as workshops and conferences where you can learn about the nomadic lifestyle, traditional practices, and the challenges faced by nomadic communities in the modern world.

You can also read about summer festivals in Morocco.

Free things to do in Morocco
Must Visit Morocco