Mint tea, made by steeping green tea with mint leaves, is very popular, and many Moroccans drink it several times throughout the day and evening.
Moroccans are famous for their hospitality, and it is Moroccan etiquette to offer tea to any visitors that might stop by. Although the tea is usually prepared with a generous amount of spearmint leaves, other herbs such as absinthium or wild mint might be used.
The Traditional Moroccan Tea Ceremony
At one time, mint tea was ceremoniously prepared in front of guests. This tradition still takes place at some formal occasions.
During the tea ceremony, the host or hostess sits before a tray holding decorated glasses and two tea pots. Fresh mint leaves (or other herbs), dried green tea leaves, sugar and boiling water should be nearby.
The host begins by rinsing the tea pots with boiling water. He then then adds the tea leaves to each pot, and rinses the leaves with a little boiling water. The water is discarded.
Sugar is added to the pots and the host fills them with boiling water. The tea steeps for several minutes before being stirred, and then the host fills the tea glasses halfway while pouring simultaneously from both pots. The pouring is usually done from a height of twelve inches or more.
While the guests drink their fist glass of tea, the host will replenish the pots with more tea leaves and sugar. Large handfuls of fresh mint will also be added, and then the host again fills the pots with boiling water.
It is this second pot of tea, fragrant with mint and usually heavily sweetened, that has gained fame both within and outside of Morocco.
Modern Method
These days, tea is much more likely to be prepared in the kitchen before being brought before the guests. Nonetheless, if you’ve had the opportunity to have mint tea served by a Moroccan, you’ll probably agree that tea time can be quite impressive and is an ultimate way to relax with friends and family.
Make Your Own Mint Tea
If you’d like to try making your own Moroccan tea, this Mint Tea recipe will show you how easy it is.
