Moroccan cuisine makes its way to Pakistan

Food festival organised by embassy introduces locals, diplomats to traditional dishes

ISLAMABAD:

Moroccan cuisine is famous all over the world for its unique flavours, perfect blend of spices and the fusion of Arab, Berber and French influences. Their aroma and delicious taste are popular all over the world.

Its irresistible aroma and flavours travelled to Pakistan over the weekend and were featured at the Moroccan Food Festival organised at a private hotel in Islamabad.

The festival was attended by a large number of diplomats. Traditional Moroccan dishes were presented at the festival. These included tajine, the most famous dish of Morocco, which is cooked in a special clay pot on low heat. It is made with meat (chicken, beef or mutton) along with vegetables, dried fruits and olives. Couscous is a dish made from wheat semolina and is especially eaten on Fridays. Meat and various fresh vegetables are added to it for extra nutrition.

Harira is a traditional soup made with lentils, chickpeas, tomatoes and meat. Pastilla is a delicious layered pastry filled with chicken or pigeon meat, almonds and spices. It is sprinkled with sugar and cinnamon powder.

When it comes to drinks and desserts, the special Moroccan mint tea, which is called "Atay" in the local language and is made with green leaves and fresh mint, is a symbol of Moroccan hospitality. Kaab el Ghazal is a famous sweet dish that is crescent-shaped and filled with almond paste.