They call it the ritual or tea ceremony in Morocco, as drinking this infusion in company is a social habit of the day. If you are lucky enough to be immersed in one of these situations, feel privileged and take note of everything you need to know to enjoy this special moment.
What is the tea from Morocco?
As you will know if you like this drink, there are many different teas. But the Moorish tea, which is considered ‘national’ in Morocco, is green tea with mint, which gives it a minty and refreshing touch. That is the secret of its success in a country where the heat can be intense. In some regions they incorporate other wild herbs, as in the Rif (sage, thyme), but the base is the aforementioned peppermint or mint. And in all cases, the sugar content is usually generous to cover the bitterness of the infusion.
A welcome and hospitality detail
Moroccans usually drink several teas a day, three in many cases. And they are usually ready to offer it when welcoming a guest at home, or as a gesture of hospitality in other areas, such as the customer in a store, from whom good treatment is expected. Therefore, to be the object of this offer should be considered a compliment and an honor, as it is a sincere sign of respect and recognition.
Teapot and glasses, standardized but special
The tableware used in the tea ritual usually follows the same characteristics, but this standardization does not detract from its importance: on the contrary, they are very special, often made in a handcrafted way . handcrafted. The teapot, as well as the tray used to carry everything, is made of metal, usually nickel, with a profuse decoration. Thecrystal glasses are usually made of cane, also with a surrounding decoration, with vegetal or geometric details that refer to the local culture.
In small quantities, in short sips
Although the glass is made of cane and relatively high, it is not filled with tea until the end, but it is usually left half full or even less in some cases. This is mainly due to the desire to cool it quickly, as it has to be drunk in a short period of time. In any case, when it is taken to the mouth its temperature will inevitably be high, so it is usual to drink it in small sips.
Served at a certain height
Another reason why a wide empty space is usually left up to the rim of the glass is the search for a ‘coup effect’ when pouring: it is poured at a certain height, giving the spurt a greater majesty and causing the tea to foam at the top, often known as the ‘turban’ of the tea. It adds a theatrical touch to the situation that reminds us of the care and attention that is being given to the act.
A tea that is good for your health
Finally, when drinking tea, you can be sure that, in addition to being part of a social ritual, you are also drinking a beverage with health benefits. Nutritionists usually emphasize its immune system strengthening, antioxidant, digestive, relaxing, anti-inflammatory and moisturizing properties.
In any case, you should keep in mind that the sugar is usually added in the teapot, shortly after infusing the green tea and mixing the mint. That is, before serving. Therefore, if you are diabetic or suffer from any disease that forces you to restrict sugar, let your host know. And never lose sight of the customs at the table that we tell you here.
