As part of our tour in Marrakech, we had the delightful opportunity to attend a cooking demonstration at the renowned Restaurant Al Baraka. While I initially hoped it would be a hands-on cooking class, the demonstration turned out to be an engaging showcase of traditional Moroccan couscous preparation. Though it was not a hands-on experience, watching the demonstration and enjoying the delicious meal afterward made it a worthwhile experience.
The Setting: Restaurant Al Baraka
Our culinary adventure began as we walked through an outdoor patio area to a private room at the back of the restaurant. Although the room wasn’t set up for the demonstration initially, the staff quickly assembled the necessary ingredients for making couscous. Our instructor, a Moroccan grandmother, was ready to share her culinary expertise, with our guide serving as an interpreter to facilitate questions during the demonstration.
The Art of Making Couscous
The couscous preparation started with a base of semolina mixed with spices. Flour, water, and oil were added in portions, guided only by the instructor’s experience and intuition. She didn’t measure anything, instead rolling the couscous and adding ingredients until she achieved the perfect consistency. Using a large basket and a wire mesh container, she worked the couscous with deft hands, demonstrating the skill and artistry that come with years of practice.
Layering Flavors: Meat and Vegetables
Next, our instructor demonstrated the method for layering the flavors of meat and vegetables. She used a variety of root vegetables and goat, though she didn’t cook them during the demonstration due to time constraints. Instead, she used a pre-cooked stew to show us the ornate plating. Moroccan cuisine places a great emphasis on presentation, and she carefully stacked the root vegetables on a bed of couscous, creating an attractive pattern.
Dining on the Patio
After the demonstration, we moved to the patio area for lunch. The restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor seating, and on such a pleasant day, we chose to dine outside. The patio tables, shaded by umbrellas, provided a comfortable setting for our meal. The food was served family-style in generous proportions that were almost impossible to finish. And it was absolutely delicious.
A Feast of Moroccan Flavors
Our meal began with a selection of pastries, followed by a variety of Moroccan vegetable dishes including eggplant, potatoes, carrots, beans, and squash. These vegetable dishes alone were enough to satisfy, but the main course of freshly made couscous and vegetables was the highlight. Every bite was a testament to the rich flavors and culinary traditions of Morocco.
A Memorable Experience
The cooking demonstration at Restaurant Al Baraka was a fun and informative way to spend our lunch in Marrakesh. The class was engaging, the meal was delectable, and the setting was charming. Though the experience was touristy and cost fifty dollars per person, it was worth every penny. If you find yourself in Marrakesh, I highly recommend both the cooking demonstration and the restaurant itself for an unforgettable culinary experience.
Restaurant Al Baraka is located at 1, Place Jamâa El Fna, Marrakech, Maroc, 40000, Marrakesh 40000, Morocco. They are open daily:
From 12pm to 3 pm
And from 7pm to 11pm
While we didn’t stay for the evening, they are known to have live entertainment at night. That would have been a great experience as well.
More on Morocco Travel!
- Hassan II Mosque, Casablanca
- Novotel Hotel, Casablanca
- Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Casablanca
- Essaouira Day Trip, Essaouira
- Goat Trees of Morocco, near Essaouira
- Marjana Cooperative, Essaouira
- Horse Carriage Ride, Marrakesh
