In Morocco, mint tea is much more than a simple beverage; it is the heart of Moroccan hospitality and an essential element of the country’s social culture. Served several times a day, tea is a matter of tradition and refinement.
The ritual of preparing tea is almost sacred. It begins with the careful washing of fresh mint leaves, followed by the infusion of green tea, often of the “gunpowder” type. The sugar, added in large quantities, and the mint are then mixed in a metal teapot, usually silver, known as the “berrad”.
The way the tea is served is just as important as its preparation. The tea is poured into small glasses from a height, which allows a fine foam to form on top. This gesture, repeated three times, symbolizes welcome and hospitality.
The mint tea often accompanies social moments, conversations among friends or after meals, serving both as a digestif and a convivial pause. It is also an indispensable element during special occasions such as weddings and festivities.
