Moroccan Street Food Snacks You Need to Try Now
Morocco isn’t just about beautiful riads, vibrant souks, or colorful mosaics. One of its best-kept secrets? The incredible variety of Moroccan street food and snacks that fill the alleys, squares, and markets of every city. Whether you’re a tourist walking through Marrakech’s Djemaa El-Fna or a local grabbing a quick bite, Moroccan street food is a journey of flavor you’ll never forget.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through 10 delicious Moroccan street food snacks you absolutely must try—plus where to find them, what to expect, and how to enjoy them like a local.
1. Sfenj – The Moroccan Donut
What is it?
Sfenj is Morocco’s answer to the donut—crispy on the outside, soft and chewy on the inside, and often served hot from street stalls. It’s traditionally eaten plain or dipped in sugar.
Where to find it:
Look for old frying vats and coils of golden dough in medinas and markets early in the morning.
Pro tip:
Eat it fresh with Moroccan mint tea. It’s the perfect sweet-and-savory breakfast combo.
2. Maakouda – Spicy Potato Fritters
What is it?
These mashed potato patties are mixed with spices, garlic, and herbs, then deep-fried until golden. They’re often served in sandwiches with harissa (spicy chili paste) or alone with a squeeze of lemon.
Where to find it:
Common in street-side sandwich stalls and food carts, especially in Casablanca and Tangier.
Why we love it:
It’s warm, spicy, comforting—and costs less than a dollar!
3. Harira – The Soulful Soup
What is it?
This rich tomato-based soup with lentils, chickpeas, and spices is often topped with lemon and dates. Though traditionally served during Ramadan, you’ll find it year-round in street-side pots.
Where to find it:
Local soup stands in cities like Fez and Rabat.
How to enjoy it:
Order it with chebakia (a sweet sesame pastry) for a full-on flavor bomb.
4. Msemen – Moroccan Layered Pancake
What is it?
A flaky, buttery square-shaped flatbread that’s grilled until golden. You’ll find it plain or stuffed with onions, herbs, and sometimes minced meat.
Perfect for:
A quick savory breakfast or an afternoon snack.
With what?
Best enjoyed with honey or spicy tomato sauce, depending on the filling.
5. Bissara – The Comfort Bean Soup
What is it?
A thick fava bean soup seasoned with cumin, olive oil, and chili flakes. It’s a humble but hearty dish served hot in a bowl or cup.
Where to get it:
In small street cafés or from mobile food vendors, especially in the cooler months.
Local tip:
It’s super cheap, filling, and vegan-friendly!
6. Khobz Sandwiches – The All-in-One Street Meal
What is it?
Round Moroccan bread (khobz) is sliced open and stuffed with just about anything—maakouda, kefta (meatballs), sardines, olives, eggs, or veggies.
Street vendor favorite:
The make-your-own sandwich stall. Pick your fillings, get it wrapped, and eat on the go.
Cost:
Usually under 20 MAD (about $2).
7. Snail Soup (Babbouche) – Moroccan Street Food Snacks
What is it?
A surprisingly delicious and aromatic broth made from snails and over a dozen spices, like thyme, anise, and orange peel. The snails are eaten with a toothpick.
Who loves it:
Locals swear by it for its warming and medicinal properties.
Where to find it:
Night markets, especially in Marrakech’s Djemaa El-Fna.
8. Brochettes – Grilled Skewers
What is it?
Charcoal-grilled meat skewers (lamb, beef, chicken) marinated with cumin, paprika, garlic, and herbs.
Sidekick:
Served with fresh khobz, salt, cumin, and spicy harissa.
Insider tip:
If the vendor’s stall smells amazing from a block away—follow your nose.
9. Rghaif – Savory Flatbread Rolls
What is it?
A rolled version of msemen, usually stuffed with spiced onions and minced meat, then pan-fried until crispy.
Perfect for:
A heavier snack or small meal.
What to expect:
Oily fingers and a happy belly!
10. Chbakia – Honey-Coated Sesame Pastry
What is it?
A deep-fried cookie shaped like a flower, soaked in honey and topped with sesame seeds.
When to try:
Anytime, but especially during Ramadan.
Pair with:
A cup of harira or mint tea.
Where to Find the Best Moroccan Street Food and Snacks
Whether you’re in the buzzing heart of Marrakech or a quiet alley in Chefchaouen, Moroccan street food is everywhere.
Top cities to explore street food:
- Marrakech: Djemaa El-Fna for live grilling and soup stalls
- Fez: Local markets and narrow medina streets
- Casablanca: Beachfront and city center stalls
- Tangier: Seaside cafés and street corners
How to Eat Like a Local
Step 1: Watch Before You Buy
Observe how clean the stall is and how the food is handled. A busy stall usually means fresher food.
Step 2: Use Bread, Not Cutlery
Most snacks are eaten by hand or with khobz. It’s traditional—and tastier!
Step 3: Don’t Be Afraid to Try Something New
From snails to bean soup, keep an open mind. You may discover your new favorite food.
Step 4: Ask for Harissa
This chili paste is the secret sauce that gives most Moroccan snacks their kick.
Step 5: Bargain if You Buy in Bulk
If you’re grabbing multiple items, especially pastries, don’t be shy to ask for a little extra.