Authentic Moroccan Drinks for Every Season

Morocco is a land of vivid colors, spice-laden dishes, and – perhaps most memorably – refreshingly rich drinks steeped in tradition. Whether you’re sipping something warm on a chilly winter night or cooling down under the scorching summer sun, Authentic Moroccan Drinks are here to elevate the experience.

In this guide, we’ll walk through seasonal Moroccan beverages with step-by-step instructions, easy-to-find ingredients, and pro tips to help you enjoy Morocco in every sip – no matter where you are in the world.

1. Spring Sips: Moroccan Avocado Almond Smoothie (Zazaa)

Spring in Morocco brings a burst of fresh produce and a refreshing shift from the cozy drinks of winter. One favorite? Zazaa – a rich, energizing avocado almond smoothie that’s perfect for breakfast or a mid-day treat.

Ingredients:

• 1 ripe avocado
• 2 tablespoons raw almonds (soaked overnight)
• 2 cups cold milk (or almond milk for a dairy-free option)
• 2 tablespoons honey
• A pinch of cinnamon
• Crushed ice

Instructions:

1. In a blender, combine soaked almonds and half the milk. Blend until smooth.
2. Add avocado, honey, cinnamon, and the rest of the milk.
3. Blend again until creamy.
4. Add crushed ice and blend briefly.
5. Serve in tall glasses with a sprinkle of cinnamon on top.

Why It Works: This smoothie is nutrient-packed and naturally sweet, offering the perfect start to your day as spring blooms.

2. Summer Coolers: Moroccan Mint Tea with a Chilled Twist

No post about Authentic Moroccan Drinks is complete without mentioning Moroccan mint tea, also known as atay b’naana. While traditionally served hot, you can put a summer spin on it with a cold brew version!

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon Chinese green tea (gunpowder tea)
• 1 bunch of fresh spearmint
• 4 cups cold water
• 3 tablespoons sugar (or to taste)
• Ice cubes

Instructions:

1. Rinse the green tea with a splash of hot water to remove bitterness.
2. Add tea, mint, and sugar to a pitcher with cold water.
3. Let it steep in the fridge for 3–4 hours.
4. Strain and pour over ice.

Pro Tip: Add a slice of lemon or a splash of orange blossom water for an extra layer of flavor.

3. Autumn Aromas: Khoudenjal (Hot Ginger Tea)

As the air gets crisp and leaves start falling, Moroccans turn to Khoudenjal – a warming, spiced tea that’s packed with health benefits.

Ingredients:

• 1 thumb-sized piece of fresh ginger (sliced)
• 2 sticks cinnamon
• 5 cloves
• 1 teaspoon anise seeds
• 4 cups water
• Honey or sugar to taste

Instructions:

1. Add ginger and spices to water in a pot.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes.
3. Strain and sweeten to taste.
4. Serve piping hot, ideally in ceramic mugs.

Why It Works: Khoudenjal is bold, spicy, and perfect for clearing the sinuses and warming up the soul.

4. Winter Warmers: Moroccan Sahlab (Warm Milk with Orange Blossom)

Winter in Morocco calls for something soothing and fragrant. Enter Sahlab – a velvety warm milk drink delicately scented with orange blossom water, beloved across Moroccan households during colder months.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups whole milk (or plant-based milk)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon orange blossom water
• Crushed nuts (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Mix cornstarch and a few tablespoons of milk to form a slurry.
2. Heat the rest of the milk in a saucepan and stir in the sugar.
3. Once warm, add the slurry and stir constantly until the milk thickens.
4. Turn off the heat and add orange blossom water.
5. Pour into mugs and top with crushed nuts.

Why It Works: Creamy, floral, and comforting – perfect for curling up by the fireplace.

5. Year-Round Favorite: Moroccan Lemon Barley Drink (Sharbat Belchaïr)

This drink is both a detoxifier and a delicious way to hydrate year-round. Popular especially during Ramadan and hot days, Sharbat belchaïr blends fresh lemon juice with barley water for a tangy, earthy taste.

Ingredients:

• ½ cup barley grains
• 6 cups water
• Juice of 2 lemons
• 2 tablespoons sugar (or honey)
• Orange or lemon zest (optional)

Instructions:

1. Rinse barley thoroughly and boil in water for 30–40 minutes.
2. Strain and allow the liquid to cool.
3. Stir in lemon juice and sweetener.
4. Serve chilled with citrus zest if desired.

6. Moroccan Café Culture: Spiced Moroccan Coffee (Qahwa Ma’atra)

While Morocco is famed for tea, coffee lovers aren’t left behind. Qahwa Ma’atra, or spiced Moroccan coffee, is subtly infused with warming spices like cardamom and nutmeg.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups strong brewed coffee (Turkish or espresso-style)
• 1 pod cardamom, cracked
• A pinch of ground nutmeg
• Sugar or milk (optional)

Instructions:

1. Brew your coffee with cardamom pod added to the pot.
2. Add nutmeg while still hot.
3. Stir well and serve in small demitasse cups.

Why It Works: Great for after meals or during long conversations, this coffee is all about bold flavor with a hint of exotic warmth.

7. Festive Treat: Moroccan Almond Milkshake (Halib Blouz)

Served during celebrations and family gatherings, this drink is sweet, fragrant, and full of rich almond flavor.

Ingredients:

• ½ cup blanched almonds
• 2 cups milk
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• ½ teaspoon orange blossom water
• Ice cubes

Instructions:

1. Blend almonds with milk until completely smooth.
2. Add sugar and orange blossom water.
3. Blend again with ice.
4. Strain if desired for a smoother texture.

Pro Tip: Add a splash of rose water or crushed pistachios for a twist!

Final Thoughts: How to Enjoy Authentic Moroccan Drinks All Year

Exploring Authentic Moroccan Drinks is more than just a culinary journey – it’s a cultural experience. Each beverage tells a story of heritage, family, and the rhythms of the seasons. Whether you’re cooling off with iced mint tea or cozying up with a cup of Sahlab, these drinks bring the spirit of Morocco into your home.

So next time you’re looking for something special, try one of these recipes. Share them with loved ones, pair them with traditional Moroccan sweets, and take a moment to appreciate the care and flavor that go into every glass.

Summary: Seasonal Moroccan Drinks At-a-Glance

Season	Drink	Key Ingredients	Occasion
Spring	Zazaa	Avocado, almonds	Breakfast/refreshment
Summer	Iced Mint Tea	Green tea, mint	Heat relief
Fall	Khoudenjal	Ginger, spices	Cold remedy
Winter	Sahlab	Milk, orange blossom	Cozy nights
Year-Round	Sharbat Belchaïr	Barley, lemon	Detox/hydration
Festive	Halib Blouz	Almonds, milk	Celebrations

Let these Authentic Moroccan Drinks transport you across the seasons and into the heart of Moroccan hospitality.