Things Tourists Should Never Eat Or Drink In Morocco

Travelling to Morocco comes with a lot of pros and cons, especially if you have a sensitive stomach. Although Moroccan cuisine is one of the finest in the world – with popular dishes like tajine, couscous or zaalouk, that are absolutely delicious – this North African country also has some foods and drinks that one should, preferably, avoid. Here are our tips for traditional Moroccan food to avoid.

We’ve picked out some dishes you might want to avoid but also a selection of fantastic foodie experiences to enjoy in Morocco.

Snails

If you aren’t a fan of going out of your comfort zone when it comes to food, you better steer clear of the snails. Snails are cooked, have spices added to them and are served in small, traditional bowls with the water they were cooked in. It might sound tempting but if you’re unfamiliar with such dishes, it might not be a risk worth taking.

The Original Marrakech Street Food Tour

Architectural Landmark, Historical Landmark

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Go on a culinary adventure with the Original Marrakech Street Food Tour, where you can savor the flavors of Morocco. Stroll through vibrant markets and bustling streets as you taste an array of local delicacies, including aromatic tagines, fresh pastries, and traditional mint tea. Discover the stories behind each dish while interacting with local vendors and learning about the rich culinary heritage of Marrakech. This tour offers a delicious and authentic experience of the city’s vibrant food scene.

Tap water

When it comes to Morocco, tap water is something people discuss a lot. It’s generally harmless for locals, but if you’re from another country, opt for bottled water, as you don’t know how your body might react to the different bacteria found in the local tap water.

Marrakech Street Food Tour

Architectural Landmark, Historical Landmark

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Experience the vibrant culinary scene of Marrakech on a delicious street food tour. Wander through bustling markets and lively streets, sampling a variety of traditional Moroccan dishes, including savory tagines, fresh kebabs, and sweet pastries. Engage with local vendors and learn about the rich culinary traditions of the region as you taste authentic flavors. This tour provides a unique opportunity to explore the culture and cuisine of Marrakech, making it a must-do for food lovers.

Cookies from carts

Often when walking down the street in Morocco you’ll spot a nice cart full of traditional cookies. Although people do purchase them, it would be better to stay away, as they’ve been exposed to the sun, maybe for days, and their quality isn’t as good as those found in actual bakeries.

Authentic Moroccan Food Tour in Marrakech with Dinner

Architectural Landmark, Historical Landmark

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Taste the rich flavors of Moroccan cuisine on an authentic food tour in Marrakech, complete with a delightful dinner. Explore local markets and hidden gems as you sample traditional dishes such as savory tagines, aromatic couscous, and freshly baked bread. Engage with passionate chefs who share their culinary secrets, and enjoy a warm, welcoming atmosphere. The evening culminates in a memorable dinner, allowing you to savor the essence of Moroccan hospitality and culture in a truly immersive experience.

Snacks

Snacks in Morocco are small food stores where you can buy a sandwich, chips and a beverage. These ‘fast foods’ are quite popular among young locals. However, if you’re coming from abroad, you can’t know for sure how the sandwich has been made and if the meat is fresh.

Marrakech: Street Food Tour by Night

Architectural Landmark, Historical Landmark

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Experience the vibrant nightlife of Marrakech on a captivating street food tour by night. As the sun sets, wander through bustling markets and lively streets, where the aroma of delicious street food fills the air. Sample a variety of local specialties, from sizzling skewers and flavorful tagines to sweet pastries and traditional mint tea. Engage with local vendors and soak in the lively atmosphere, making this tour a unique culinary adventure that showcases the rich flavors of Marrakech after dark.

Street food vendors

You will most likely see these in Marrakesh, where many street food vendors gather near Jemaa el-Fna to offer tourists fried fish or a barbecue. Again, these carts might not have been properly checked for food safety and hygiene – so if possible, walk by without being tempted by the smell.

Rabat Food Tour in the Old Town

Architectural Landmark

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Indulge on a delightful food tour in Rabat’s Old Town, where you can experience the rich culinary heritage of Morocco. Stroll through charming streets and vibrant markets, sampling an array of traditional dishes such as savory tagines, fresh bread, and sweet pastries. Engage with local vendors who share their culinary stories and secrets, providing insight into the city’s food culture. This tour offers a unique opportunity to savor authentic flavors while immersing yourself in the history and charm of Rabat’s Old Town.

Donuts

Locally known as sfenj, Moroccan donuts are fried in oil that may or may not be fresh. That’s why it’s better to avoid fried foods such as sfenj, and even churros. Donuts shops can be located on almost any street, and you’ll quickly spot them from the smell of oil and people coming and going with donuts in hand.

Casablanca Food Tour - Moroccan Street Food Tour

Traditional Moroccan food served in Casablanca

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Discover the culinary delights of Casablanca on a Moroccan street food tour, where you can taste the city’s vibrant flavors. Stroll through lively markets and bustling streets, sampling a variety of traditional dishes such as spicy harira soup, crispy briouats, and sweet pastries. Engage with local vendors who share their culinary expertise and stories, offering a glimpse into the rich food culture of Morocco. This tour provides an immersive experience, showcasing the best of Casablanca’s street food scene.

Fruit and vegetables

Don’t worry, not all fruit and vegetables are out of bounds, because in Morocco they are actually very tasty. The only reason produce is on this list is because you must make sure it has been peeled, washed or cooked before consumption. This is just to avoid any bacteria you wouldn’t want in your system.

Marrakech Food Tour

Architectural Landmark, Historical Landmark

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Experience the rich flavors of Marrakech on a food tour that highlights the city’s vibrant culinary scene. Wander through bustling markets and charming alleyways, sampling traditional Moroccan dishes such as tagines, couscous, and freshly baked bread. Enjoy sweet treats like pastries and local specialties, while engaging with knowledgeable vendors who share insights into their culinary heritage. This tour offers a delightful exploration of Marrakech’s diverse flavors and a deeper understanding of Moroccan culture through its food.

Super market products

Sometimes, even in the safest places you would think to shop at, like Carrefour, you must be careful and check the expiration date of products and canned goods. Although expired products are not a recurrent event, it is better to be safe than sorry!

Casablanca Food Tour

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Immerse yourself in the flavors of Casablanca on a captivating food tour that showcases the city’s culinary diversity. Stroll through lively markets and charming streets, sampling a variety of traditional Moroccan dishes, including savory tagines, fresh seafood, and delicious pastries. Interact with local vendors who share their culinary expertise and the stories behind their creations. This tour offers a unique opportunity to experience Casablanca’s rich food culture, making it a must-do for food enthusiasts.

Buffets

Buffets always sound like a good idea – that is if the food hasn’t been sitting exposed to the heat for hours. In such cases, buffets are not advised, as your stomach may not be used to the sanitary conditions of the restaurant and you might end up getting food poisoning.

3-Hour Walking Food Tour in Marrakech

Architectural Landmark, Historical Landmark

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Embark on a delightful 3-hour walking food tour in Marrakech, where you’ll savor the rich flavors of Moroccan cuisine. Stroll through vibrant markets and bustling streets, sampling an array of traditional dishes, from aromatic tagines to fresh salads and sweet pastries. Engage with local vendors who share their culinary stories and insights, providing a deeper understanding of Marrakech’s food culture. This immersive experience allows you to enjoy the city’s culinary treasures while exploring its enchanting atmosphere.

Salad

Salad may not be properly washed and could contain pathogens that might lead to E. Coli infection. For this reason it is advised to leave out the salad from any sandwiches or sides, to avoid potential food poisoning.

The Food tour of Tangier

Architectural Landmark

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Discover the culinary delights of Tangier on a captivating food tour that showcases the city’s vibrant flavors and rich heritage. Wander through bustling markets and charming streets, sampling a variety of traditional dishes such as savory tagines, fresh seafood, and sweet pastries. Engage with local vendors and chefs who share their culinary stories and expertise, offering insight into Tangier’s diverse food culture. This tour provides a unique opportunity to explore the city’s flavors while immersing yourself in its enchanting atmosphere.

Condiments

Sometimes the tiniest thing can make you ill, like mayonnaise, ketchup or other condiments you find in restaurants. Some of these products might not have been stored in a cool area, which could produce bacteria and be damaging to your stomach.