A Taste of Morocco, Beyond the Tagine
Morocco is a land of color and contrast from the pink glow of Marrakesh’s medina to the quiet blue alleys of Chefchaouen. Its food, much like its landscape, is a warm blend of spice, tradition, and heartfelt hospitality.
Everyone knows the iconic dishes: couscous, lamb tagine, and sweet mint tea. But ask any Moroccan what they eat at home during family milestones or when they crave true comfort food, and you’ll likely hear one word: Rfissa.
You might come across Rfissa in a very traditional Moroccan restaurant, but it’s not something you’ll easily find once you return home. This is a dish woven into personal stories, made during postpartum recovery, served at family gatherings, and known to bring people together over hours-long meals.
So whether you’ve already explored Morocco and want to relive the flavors you enjoyed there, or you're planning a trip and want to preview the country’s true culinary soul, this recipe will give you what you are looking for, and give you something unforgettable to share with family and friends.
Rfissa: A Dish Steeped in Tradition
Rfissa is one of Morocco’s most culturally significant dishes, passed down through generations with a sense of care and ceremony. Its roots go back to the Arab-Andalusian period, when layered dishes using flatbread as a base were part of everyday life. Over time, that concept evolved uniquely in Morocco into what we now know as Rfissa.
What makes this dish truly special is its ritual significance. Rfissa is traditionally served to women after childbirth, thanks to its blend of healing ingredients like fenugreek, believed to support recovery. But it’s not reserved only for that moment—Rfissa often appears at family gatherings and intimate celebrations, always prepared with patience and intention.
It’s not a dish you whip up on a whim. It takes time, care, and usually a reason, making it all the more meaningful. And while it may be found in the most traditional kitchens or festivals, Rfissa remains largely off the tourist menu, deeply tied to Morocco’s domestic life and private traditions.
Rfissa Recipe: Make This Moroccan Favorite at Home
Serves 4–6 people
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken (cut into pieces)
- 2 onions, finely chopped
- 1.5 cups green or brown lentils
- 1 tablespoon fenugreek seeds (soaked overnight or simmered for 30 minutes)
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ras el hanout
- ➤ Substitute: ½ tsp cumin + ½ tsp coriander + ¼ tsp cinnamon + a pinch of clove
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 bunch fresh cilantro
- 2–3 msemmen (Moroccan flatbread)
- ➤ Substitute: Indian paratha, thick crepes, or lightly pan-fried flour tortillas
- Water
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil and sauté the onions until soft.
- Add chicken pieces and lightly brown them on all sides.
- Add turmeric, ginger, ras el hanout (or substitute), salt, and pepper. Stir well.
- Add lentils and soaked fenugreek, then pour in enough water to cover everything.
- Simmer on low for 45–60 minutes until the chicken is tender and the broth is rich and fragrant.
- Meanwhile, warm or prepare your msemmen or substitute flatbread.
- Tear the bread into a deep serving dish.
- Pour the hot stew over the bread so it soaks up the broth.
- Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro and serve immediately.
Bring Morocco Home: What to Look for in Local Markets
If you plan to recreate Rfissa—or just want to take a bit of Morocco back with you—the markets and souks are a treasure trove of unique ingredients and handmade kitchen goods you won’t find in your local shops.
When visiting places like the Mellah of Marrakesh, the spice rows of Fez, or the weekly rural markets, keep an eye out for:
- Ras el Hanout: Every vendor has their own fragrant mix. Buy it freshly blended if you can.
- Fenugreek Seeds (Helba): A staple for stews and health remedies.
- Dried Preserved Lemons: With their deep citrus flavor, they add magic to many Moroccan dishes.
- Handmade tagines or spice jars: Both beautiful and practical for your kitchen at home.
- Fresh Msemmen: Some bakeries may offer travel-ready versions—just ask!
These markets aren’t just places to shop—they’re vibrant, living expressions of Morocco’s culture. Take your time, taste freely, and don’t hesitate to ask how things are made.
Staying Connected While You Travel
If you’re planning a trip to Morocco, or you’re already on the ground and looking for a hassle-free way to stay connected, you can easily get online with the Morocco JetSet eSIM.
It saves you the confusion of buying a local SIM card and lets you stay connected throughout your journey without interruptions.
With our eSIM, you can:
- Book trains, buses, or riads in smaller towns
- Use maps to explore hidden souks and lesser-known bakeries
- Look up recipes, ingredients, or even cooking workshops while exploring
- Share your culinary discoveries and your homemade Rfissa with friends and family instantly
JetSet eSIM keeps you connected to the cultural heartbeat of Morocco. You’ll be free to enjoy the experience fully and bring a true taste of it back home.
