If you visit medinas in Morocco like Marrakech or Fes, you will come across shops that sell many spices arranged in colorful pyramid shapes. But what are the common spices used in Moroccan cuisine? Here, I’ll share the most used spices by Moroccan families—my own included!
The common spices used in Moroccan cuisine in daily life are cumin, salt, paprika, black pepper, ginger, and turmeric. These spices are a combination that you will find every couscous and tagine that includes vegetables. Cumin is a favorite among Moroccans and is used in nearly every Moroccan dish.
What Are Common Spices Used in Moroccan Cuisine?
Common spices used in Moroccan cuisine almost every day include cumin, sweet paprika, black pepper, ginger, and turmeric. These are essential ingredients to complete my two favorite tagines and couscous.
But that is not all; the spice palette of Morocco also includes saffron in daily dishes. Commonly known for its floral fragrance and rich color, saffron elevates special meals to a completely different level. Being very expensive, I use saffron only for particularly special dishes.
Cayenne adds depth and heat, while cinnamon lends its warmth to both savory and sweet dishes alike, including the iconic pastilla. Together, these create complex, aromatic flavors that make Moroccan cuisine unforgettable.
For a quick dish outdoors, or when I don’t know what to use, I opt for Ras el Hanout. This spice blend, often composed of over 20 spices, varies from one shop to another, making it a favorite among food lovers.
You can always visit any store and ask the owner which spices you need for a particular meal. They often sell mixtures for dishes like tagines or couscous to perfect that dish. Ras el Hanout is truly a lifesaver in adding depth and aroma to any Moroccan-inspired dish!
If you’re in Marrakech or Fes and out exploring the colorful streets, make time for the spice stalls. The riot of colors and aromas will linger long after your trip is over. Even better, you can take a pinch of spices home; that’s how magic gets transported into your own kitchen.
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