On Day 11 of the African Travel Seminars’ May 2025 tour to Morocco, participants will embark on an unforgettable culinary adventure in the breathtaking Atlas Mountains. The day starts in the vibrant city of Marrakech, known for its rich history and bustling markets. From there, the journey heads towards the serene Atlas Mountains, where participants will be introduced to the Amazigh people, also known as the Berbers, an indigenous ethnic group native to North Africa.
One of the day’s most anticipated highlights is a cooking class with an Amazigh family, providing an authentic and immersive cultural experience. The Amazigh are renowned for their hospitality and culinary traditions, and this class offers a unique opportunity to learn from them firsthand.
Participants will dive into the art of preparing traditional Moroccan chicken Tagine, a staple of Amazigh cuisine. The Tagine, named after the earthenware pot in which it is cooked, is a flavorful dish composed of chicken pieces braised with an aromatic blend of spices, garlic, onions, olives, and preserved lemons. These ingredients combine to create a rich and fragrant meal that epitomizes Moroccan culinary traditions.
The cooking class begins with a detailed introduction to the ingredients and techniques unique to Moroccan cuisine. Participants will learn how to properly braise the chicken, blend the spices, and prepare the preserved lemons, a key ingredient that imparts a distinctive tangy flavor to the dish. The Amazigh family’s hands-on guidance ensures that participants not only follow a recipe but also understand the cultural significance and traditional methods behind the dish.
As the Tagine simmers, filling the air with its enticing aroma, participants will have the opportunity to engage with the Amazigh hosts, learning about their heritage, traditions, and daily life in the Atlas Mountains. This interaction provides a deeper appreciation of the cultural context in which the food is prepared and enjoyed.
Once the Tagine is ready, participants will savor the fruits of their labor in a communal meal, enjoying the tender, flavorful chicken enhanced by the harmonious blend of spices and preserved lemons. This shared dining experience fosters a sense of community and connection, highlighting the role of food in bringing people together.
The day concludes with a return to Marrakech, but the memories and skills acquired during the cooking class will last a lifetime. Participants will leave with not only the knowledge to recreate this traditional dish at home but also a profound appreciation for the Amazigh culture and the rich culinary heritage of Morocco.
This cooking class in the Atlas Mountains is more than just a culinary lesson; it is an enriching cultural exchange that enhances the overall travel experience, making Day 11 of the tour a truly memorable and transformative experience.
Plan to join us on this upcoming trip, May 22-June 4, 2025! See the full itinerary here
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