Moroccan shopping

Argan Products

2011-04-04T11:57:00.000-07:00

All our Argan products are produced in Morocco by the Adaguen cooperative.The Moroccan Adaguen cooperative is specialized in the production and marketing of Argan oil. It was born in 2000, Members of the cooperative are Moroccan women wishing to develop their skills and their social-economic situation, The realization of the products and qualifications meet international standards Argan oil is well known for it's anti-ageing properties, Due to high levels of Vitamin E and saponins, which soften the skin. It can help to reduce wrinkles by restoring the skin's water lipid layer and it also cools and soothes inflammation. Its antioxidant properties help to neutralise free radicals. Yet it does all this quite naturally. It is known as the Tree of Life. For centuries it's been a well-kept secret known only to the Berber women who use it to nourish their skin, hair and nails. They also use it to soothe dry eczema, acne and psoriasis and stretch marks. To get the maximum benefit from argan you should take it internally as well. It contains twice as much vitamin E as olive oil and is rich in antioxidants. It contains eight essential fatty acids and also rare plant sterols with anti-inflammatory properties, so it's beneficial for arthritic or rheumatic conditions. The oil has a delicious nutty taste and is best used as a salad dressing, or drizzled over pasta – the health-giving properties are lost if it's heated.

http://www.shop-morocco.com/argan-oil-48-c.asp

Exclusive to Shop Morocco

2011-02-24T02:29:00.000-08:00

This eligant Djellaba is lightweigh, made with several materials. It is heavily striped with lighter checks. And comes in Three colours.

Exclusive to Shop Morocco Only €18.99

The Djellaba, a typical robe that you cannot miss from the very first few seconds after arriving in Morocco. According to the many people we have met who have professed to be experts in many areas, there are three basic types of djellaba for men and two basic everyday options for women. For both sexes, the machzania or "government" djellaba is the most common throughout the country. For the men, there are also the northern and the southern djellaba, and for the women there is the kaftanlamic religion of Morocco is also a key factor in the way that Moroccan people dress. The djellaba covers the whole body and is therefore an acceptable modest outfit.

Shop Morocco.com Over 20 different Djellabas in stock at unbeatable prices.

Shop Morocco the Moroccan clothing experts

The Babouche Slipper

2010-11-07T05:42:00.000-08:00

The Moroccan leather babouche is a very durable and comfortable Moroccan slipper.Traditionally worn all over Morocco

Yellow is the traditional colour but the babouche also comes in white,red and black.We have the Womens babouche in red white and blue. And the Berber babouche in black and brown.

Driss has been making babouches in his home town Tangiers, for more than 40 years. His skill and craftmanship is unbeatable. Now working close with Shop Morocco, Driss can make babouches for you!

A Tribute to a Great Friend

2010-09-22T11:31:00.000-07:00

Culture:
Mohammed as been a close freind for many years.His knowledge of Moroccan culture and artisan is second to none.Living in Tangiers Mohammed as worked with tourists for nearly 50 years. If you ever visit Tangiers you could not be in safer hands.Mohammed is very proud of his country and the city he lives in.A visit to Tangiers with Mohammed is educational,mystical and enjoyable. Unlike most guides in the city your not hussled from shop to shop for the sole intention of gaining commision.With mohammed you see Tangiers for the beautiful cultural city it is.

Food:
Ive talked about Moroccan food many times.
Some of the best meals I've ever had have been in the house of Mohammed.
Having worked as a chef for many years his knowledge of Moroccan cuisine is incredible and he is always ready to share is knowledge.A typicle day with Mohammed would be to visit his house on the outskirts of Tangiers were you would take a typicle Moroccan lunch.
When visiting Morocco buying for Shop-Morocco I never miss a stay with Mohammed were we spend many a evening discussing the ways of the world.

Artisan:
When it comes to Moroccan artisan Mohammed is the master,Icould not of formed Shop Morocco without him, His knowledge a help as been invaluable.
Whether it's carpets,ceramics or leather wear Mohammed is a sorce of endless information.

Tangiers (Morocco) would not be the same without this great man.
Mohammed Alaoui ,Ambassador to Morocco.

Any one interested in visiting Tangiers for the day with a real guide, can contact me esteve@shop-morocco.com

Argan Oil

2010-09-02T04:28:00.001-07:00

Argan oil is well known for it's anti-ageing properties, Due to high levels of Vitamin E and saponins, which soften the skin. It can help to reduce wrinkles by restoring the skin's water lipid layer and it also cools and soothes inflammation. Its antioxidant properties help to neutralise free radicals. Yet it does all this quite naturally.
It is known as the Tree of Life. For centuries it's been a well-kept secret known only to the Berber women who use it to nourish their skin, hair and nails. They also use it to soothe dry eczema, acne and psoriasis and stretch marks.
To get the maximum benefit from argan you should take it internally as well. It contains twice as much vitamin E as olive oil and is rich in antioxidants. It contains eight essential fatty acids and also rare plant sterols with anti-inflammatory properties, so it's beneficial for arthritic or rheumatic conditions.
The oil has a delicious nutty taste and is best used as a salad dressing, or drizzled over pasta – the health-giving properties are lost if it's heated. Shop Morocco

2010-07-16T08:52:00.000-07:00

Summer sales are here again at Shop morocco Upto 1/2 price reductions on Djellabas and Gandoras.

2010-01-12T11:21:00.000-08:00

Shop Morocco now has it's own customer forum, It's free and open to all.
A great place to chat with other clients, make inquiries or leave comments

The Fez

2009-09-19T01:57:00.000-07:00

The name Fez is believed to come from Fez, the city, which once produced the hat's red dye, made from crimson berries.
The origins of the Fez, or "tarboosh" in Morocco, is not clear. The design may have come from ancient Greece or the Balkans. In the 19th Century it gained wide acceptance when the Ottoman rulers moved to modernize traditional costumes. The brimless hat did not get in the way of a Muslim's daily prayers and was cleaner and less cumbersome than the turban.
A version of the fez was used as an arming cap for the 1400-1700s version of the mail armour head protector (a round metal plate or skull-cap, around which hung a curtain of mail to protect the neck and upper shoulder. The fez, presumably padded, raised up the metal plate an inch or two to provide effective protection from heavy blows. The fez could be optionally wrapped with a turban.
Fez being made in Tunisia.

The red fez with blue tassel was the standard headdress of the Turkish Army from the 1840s until the introduction of a khaki service dress and peakless sun helmet in 1910. The only significant exceptions were cavalry and some artillery units who wore a lambskin hat with coloured cloth tops. Albanian levies wore a white version of the fez. During World War I the fez was still worn by some naval reserve units and occasionally by soldiers when off duty.

The Evzones (light infantry) regiments of the Greek Army wore their own distinctive version of the fez from 1837 until World War II. It now survives in the parade uniform of the Presidential Guard in Athens.
Somali man wearing a white fez

From the late 19th century on the fez was widely adopted as the headdress of locally recruited "native" soldiers amongst the various colonial troops of the world. The French North African regiments (Zouaves, Tirailleurs, and Spahis) wore wide, red fezzes with detachable tassels of various colours. It was an off-duty affectation of the Zouaves to wear their fezzes at different angles according to the regiment; French officers of North African units during the 1930s often wore the same fez as their men, with rank insignia attached. The Libyan battalions and squadrons of the Italian colonial forces wore lower, red fezzes over white skull caps. Somali and Eritrean regiments in Italian service wore high red fezzes with coloured tufts that varied according to the unit. German askaris in East Africa wore their fezzes with khaki covers on nearly all occasions. The Belgian Force Publique in the Congo wore large and floppy red fezzes similar to those of the French Tirailleurs Senegalais and the Portuguese Companhias Indigenas. The British King's African Rifles (recruited in East Africa) wore high straight-sided fezzes in either red or black, while the West African Frontier Force wore a low red version. The Egyptian Army wore the classic Turkish model until 1950. The West India Regiment of the British Army wore a fez as part of its Zouave-style full dress until this unit was disbanded in 1928. The tradition is continued in the full dress of the band of the Barbados Regiment, with a white turban wrapped around the base.
Tunisian Fez (Chechia Megidi)

While the fez was a colourful and picturesque item of uniform it was in several ways an impractical headdress. If worn without a drab cover it made the head a target for enemy fire, and it provided little protection from the sun. As a result it was increasingly relegated to parade or off-duty wear by World War II, although France's West African tirailleurs continued to wear a khaki-covered version in the field until about 1943. During the final period of colonial rule in Africa (approximately 1945 to 1962) the fez was seen only as a full-dress item in French, British, Belgium, Spanish and Portuguese African units; being replaced by wide-brimmed hats or forage caps on other occasions. Colonial police forces, however, usually retained the fez as normal duty wear for indigenous personnel.

In the Western world, the fez occasionally serves as a symbol of relaxation. In cartoons, characters are shown wearing a fez often while lying in a hammock on vacation or just relaxing after a hard day of work. This curious imagery may be a throwback to the late 19th century English practice of men wearing a loose fitting smoking jacket and braided fez-like headdress when relaxing informally in the evenings. Punch cartoons of the period 1875-90 frequently portray middle-class male figures dressed in this fashion. This practice is called "wearing mufti" and came from the habit of British officers and public servants wearing what was then Indian dress in the privacy of their homes. The dress was more comfortable in the Indian climate and created a sense of ease and relaxation such that the clothing, not unlike that of an Islamic scholar or mufti, came into the English language as a word meaning 'out of uniform' or undress.

* One of the most well-known wearings of a fez in a Hollywood film was by Victor Mature, playing Dr. Omar in Josef Von Sternberg's The Shanghai Gesture (1942).
* The Shriners are notable for wearing fezzes.
* The late British comedian and magician Tommy Cooper wore a fez as part of his stage persona.

Fez, Tarboosh and other Moroccan Hats

Tagines

2009-04-17T11:34:00.001-07:00

The Moroccan Tagine

Tagine is the Moroccan name for a cooking pot,one pot in particular has claimed this name as it's own. The Tagine is made from clay and has a conical lid. It comes in 100s of different sizes and shapes.

Tagines were originally and still today used by the Twarg. The Twarg people are nomads roaming the Moroccan desert.The tagines versatility makes it the ideal cooking implement,being a portable oven,cooking pot and serving dish all in one.The traditional way to cook with a tagine is on a charcoal brazier also made of clay.

The Tagines of today are normally glazed although you can still buy traditional clay Tagines,these are more rustic and need treating before use,to seal the pot and to take away the initial tase of earth.To do this you need a mixture of cooking oil and chopped onions,coat the inside of the Tagine with the mixture.Then leave about a 1/3 of a cup in the Tagine.

Place theTagine in the oven or hob, on a low flame and leave for 1-2 hours.Let the Tagine cool naturally.Never place a hot Tagine on a cold surface and always cook on a low heat.

The very nature of a Tagine is to cook slowly the conical lid acts like a oven to retain the heat,which not only prevents the food from drying out,but allows a slow infusion of flavors throughout the dish.Tagine cooking is by far the most simple and healthy way to cook.All the flavors and goodness stays in the pot.

Moroccan spices are an article in itself, There are several suitable for Tagine.If your lucky enough to pass Morocco.Ask for Tagine spice,this is normally a local mix and varies slightly.Most probably a little of everything.The contribution to food is unbelievable.

Tagines not only come in various sizes and shapes,but also in types.up to now we've only talked about cooking Tagines,functionally the most important but it doesn't stop here.You can use the base of your cooking Tagine to serve food.And strait from the oven its the best way.In fact most Moroccans eat this way using only bread to scoop up the food.There is a vast variety of serving Tagines.From as small as 7cm suitable for sauces etc, to full sizes of 30cm plus.

Serving Tagines are normally very decorative,hand painted with traditional designs.They present your meal perfectly adding decoration to the table. The conical lid keeps food warm and protected.

Tagines have also become a object of decoration,Ornamental or Decorative Tagines.The very shape of a Tagine makes it a focal point be it in the kitchen or living room.Ornamental Tagines can be very decorative.Sometimes adorned with Silver or Gold.Thousands of colorful designs.These Tagines also make great storage jars.Be it for jewelery or loose change,the uses are never ending.

Visit Shop morocco for more information, recipes and a great variety of Tagines

2009-04-08T04:23:00.000-07:00

New Affiliate Program

2009-04-07T14:11:00.000-07:00

Sebsi, Scuff or Shisha, Hookah

2009-02-28T10:12:00.000-08:00

In the 1960s, Morocco became one of the first destinations on the famed “Hippie Hashish Trail.” But in those early days, cannabis production was geared toward making kif—a local mixture of two-thirds chopped marijuana and one-third tobacco, smoked in a sebsi, the region’s traditional long-stemmed wood-and-clay pipe.Localy called a sebsi, The clay bowl being called a scuff.
The sebsi is still very common today and although maijuana is eligal in Morocco,You will see the sebsi used quite openly.

Moroccan water pipe ( hookah or shisha), Is used with a variety of flavoured tobaccos etc. Although originating in Egypt the water pipe is widley used in Morocco. There are shisha cafes in most larger Moroccan towns. Or it can be used as a very atractive ornament. A focal point and subject of many conversations.Add a little moroccan art and culture to your home.

Special Offer @ Shop Morocco

2009-02-20T09:27:00.000-08:00

Special offer while stocks last at Shop Morocco. This elegant Men's Djellaba Only € 15.99 less than half the normal price at Shop Morocco

For a large variety of Men and Women's Dejellabas and Gandoras visit Shop Morocco

Moroccan Clothing
Djellabs,Gandoras,
Babouches.

Seffa a traditional Moroccan recipe

2009-02-13T09:16:00.000-08:00

To serve two persons (Increase ingredients with numbers if needed)
Seffa with rice
Ingredients:
200g of good long grain rice (Not Basmati Rice, unless you like the fragrance).
400ml of boiling salted water.
50g or 100g of butter (You decide according to taste).
50g or 100g of castor sugar (Again you decide).
50g or 100g of ground cinnamon
Method:
1/ Put rice in a sieve and wash under running cold water to remove the starch and until the water runs clean, then leave to soak in cold water for 30 minutes
2/ Drain the rice and put in a microwavable dish and pour the boiling salted water over the rice and cover with cling film. Pierce a few holes in the cling film for the steam to escape.
3/ Microwave of full power for 15 minutes, then stand for 5 minutes.
PS. Steps 1, 2 & 3 are a good way to cook rice for curries, just use Basmati rice in this case.
4/ Add the butter and half the sugar, use a fork to work it in and fluff the rice
5/ Turn the rice into the serving dish and shape it into a pyramid or cone.
6/ Garnish with the remainder of the sugar and the cinnamon

Seffa with vermicelli
Ingredients:
200g of fine vermicelli (Cheveux d’anges) Angel hair or similar.
Large saucepan.
Plenty of boiling salted water.
Method
1/ Bring the salted water to the boil and add the vermicelli. Do not cover the saucepan
2/ Cook for 4 or 6 minutes (The cooking time depends on your taste. If you like the vermicelli firm cook it for less time)
3/ Drain the vermicelli through a sieve or colander and run it under cold water.
4? Melt the butter in the saucepan, and return the vermicelli into the pan with some of the sugar and toss until the vermicelli is coated.
Steps 5 & 6 are the same as for the rice version.

Recipe by Latif,
Go Morocco

Great Moroccan Forum

2009-02-02T01:41:00.000-08:00

Ive just found this great site full of usefull information on Morocco.
It has a forum specialising on Morocco,A relativly new site, so any support would be welcome.
So check it out it's already got some great freindly members and great administration.
http://www.gomorocco.com

Shopping Tips

2009-01-17T08:33:00.000-08:00

Every town and village has it's own souk,no matter how small.Cities such as Fez and Marrakesh have entire districs crammed with souks,each one dedicated to a particulare trade. while country villages have a weekly general market.

Bargaining is a way of life in Morocco, and although it is difficult for westeners to live in a world without price tags.You need to play the game if you want to purchase the things you want ay resonable prices.
Here are a few tips to help with your dealings; In Morocco bargaining is a social interaction,keep a sense of humor.
Always be polite so you can always return to the shop if you can't get a better price elswere.Accept the tea and hospitality when offered,this enhances the freindly slow nature of bargaining.
Never begin the bargaining process unless you find something you realy want to purchase.
Never show that you are in love with a item.
Always apear to be hesitant (it's not exactly what I'm looking for but how much is this ?).
Never tell the mechant your maximum price as this becomes his minimum.

Morocco is filled with beautiful things that would cost far more in your home country.A fair price goes both ways.

Moroccan Beef Kefta

2008-11-28T01:15:00.000-08:00

Moroccan Beef Kefta On Skewers With Chopped Vegetable Sal

1 1/2 lb beef,Ground
1/2 c onion,Grated
2 cloves garlic -- finely minced
2 T finely fresh,Chopped parsley
2 T finely fresh,Chopped coriander
3 t finely fresh mint or,Chopped
2 t finely fresh,Chopped marjoram
1/2 t cumin,Ground
1/2 t paprika
1/4 t cayenne
1 vegetable salad,,Chopped
1 seedless cucumber --,Peeled
1 lg tomato -- seeded and finely
1 green bell pepper -- seeded
1 and finely
1 hot italian-style pepper --
1 seeded and finely
2 cloves garlic -- finely
1 minced
3 T finely fresh mint,Chopped
2 T red wine vinegar
2 T olive oil -- (up to 3)
1 mint,Dried
1 t marjoram,Dried

In a large bowl combine the beef, onion, garlic, parsley, coriander,
mint, marjoram, salt, pepper, cumin, paprika and cayenne. Cover and
let sit for one hour. Soak 12 wooden skewers in water for one hour.
In a separate bowl combine cucumber, tomato, bell pepper, hot
pepper, garlic, mint, red wine vinegar, olive oil, salt and pepper tossing
to combine. Cover and let marinate at room temperature until ready to
serve.
Preheat grill or broiler.
Dip hands into a bowl of water. Shape and pack about a 1/3 cup of the
meat mixture into 2 sausage-shapes on a soaked wooden skewer.
Repeat procedure for remaining meat and skewers.
Grill the keftas on both sides until cooked through, about 3 to 4
minutes per side. Serve hot with chopped salad.

Shop Morocco, Specialists in Moroccan clothing

2008-11-22T14:34:00.000-08:00

The Djellaba
Our Price: £25.00
at Shop-Morocco

djellaba machzania

2008-11-22T14:11:00.000-08:00

The djellaba machzania is a long, hooded robe that fits over regular work clothes and hangs almost all the way to ones feet. It usually also has wrist-length sleeves and a v-shaped opening at the neck which is often embroidered and, on women, closed with a decorative clasp. It has no pockets but does provide openings through which one can reach to get at the pockets of clothes worn underneath. In general, men wear light colors, which is important since it reflects the light of the very strong Moroccan sun. There are also light colors for women, despite which many of the women use dark greens and browns, reds and pinks and even blacks. For everyone, the hood is vital as a protective shield against the sun or, in earlier times when it was a particularly terrible problem, against the sand carried by the desert winds. The hood is quite large so that it can fit over the traditional erraza or turban.

The Fez Hat or Tarboosh

2008-10-26T06:52:00.000-07:00

Although widely used in Morocco the fez hat originated in ancient Anatolia, modern Turkey and was subsequently worn by the Medieval Ottoman Turks during their conquest of Byzantine Anatolia. During the reign of the Sultan Mahmud Khan II (1808-39), a European code of dress gradually replaced the traditional robes worn by members of the Ottoman court. The change in costume was soon emulated by the public and senior civil servants, followed by the members of the ruling intelligentsia and the emancipated classes throughout the Ottoman Empire. While European style coats and trousers were gradually adopted, this change did not extend to headwear. Peaked or broad brimmed headresses such as the top hat did not meet the Islamic requirement that men should press their heads to the ground when praying. Accordingly the Sultan issued a firman (royal decree) that the checheya headgear in a modified form would become part of the formal attire of the Turkish Empire irrespective of his subjects' religious sects or millets.

In post-Ottoman Turkey, the fez was discouraged & ultimately banned under the leadership of the revered Mustafa Kemal (Ataturk) through the Hat Law in 1925 & the Law Relating to Prohibited Garments in 1934.

The Moroccan Gandora

2008-09-16T07:27:00.000-07:00

The Moroccan Gandora is a very traditional Moroccan garment,worn on its own or over clothing,it is worn both by men and women. It doesn’t have a hood or long sleeves like a Moroccan djellaba.The Gandora could be described as a long T-shirt. The neck tends to be open and is often embroidered.For a convenient use, this garment has a slit on one side and a pocket on the other side at the waist level.Gandoras are normally worn on the large side,giving freedom of movement and also keeping the user cool in the hot summers

Grilled Moroccan Spiced steak

2008-09-05T10:46:00.000-07:00

Morocco is famous for it's spices,here's a recipe to make your mouth water (or burn if your not careful with the chili powder). The recipe serves 6

1 medium onion
1/2 c olive oils
5 T lemon juice
2 T soy sauce
2 T fresh parsley,Minced
5 1/2 T fresh ginger,Minced
1 T cumin,Ground
1 T chili powder
2 t sherry
1 t turmeric
1 t oregano,Dried
1 t coarsely ground pepper
2 large garlic clove
4 lb flank steak
Mix first 13 ingredients in large bowl. Divide marinade mixture
between 2 large shallow baking dishes. Add steaks to marinade,
turning to coat. Cover and refrigerate overnight. Grill steaks to
desired degree of doneness, about 8 minutes on each side. Heat
marinade in saucepan. Cut steaks diagonally into thin slices. Pour
some marinade over . Garnish with cilantro and serve.
Hope you enjoy.
Esteve.

A Day in Morocco

2008-08-25T09:47:00.000-07:00

Shopping for me in Morocco is always a little different,partly because it always becomes or is business.As I do all my buying for Shop Morocco personally.And partly it gives me chance to spend some time with a great friend Mohammed.
The day always starts with a ferry trip depending whether I go by car or not dictates from where I sail.
I live in Tarifa Spain on the other side of the straits of Gibraltar.If I go by foot a take a ferry from Tarifa, unfortunately this is getting more and more expensive.So when I go by car I sail from the Spanish port of Algeciras which is aprox 25km along the coast.This ferry is a lot more economical by car.The ferry sails to Ceuta which is a Spanish colony I the cross the frontier to Morocco and drive along the coast for 75km to Tangiers.I always enjoy this drive which normally takes an hour,arriving early morning at Mohammeds house on the outskirts of Tangiers.
Breakfast is next relax a little then we go into Town I usually have a list of requested item (things I don't normally have in the shop, but acquire on request.).This normally takes up the morning.

Time to relax and take lunch probably followed by a short siesta. We normally lunch in one of the local cafes and restaurants,or on occasions return to Mohammeds for what can only be described as a feast.Moroccan cooking is the best and Mohammed is one of the best at it.First opinions of Tangiers to many, is chaos people coming and going from all directions.But the real Tangiers is really quite a relaxed and chilled out place.Although most of my trips are buying generated I always seem to find time to chill out a little.
The afternoon is usually taken up buying new stock and drinking several glasses of Moroccan tea.Early evening we return to the house of Mohammed only to be confronted with another fantastic feast.Normally on the patio overlooking Tangiers.

Dinner is followed by many deep conversations sometimes taking us into the early hours of the morning.
Early rise the following day,catch the ferry back into the real world.

Grilled Moroccan Lamb Sausage (Merguez)

2008-08-20T10:16:00.001-07:00

This is one of my favorite dishes perfect for a barbecue

1 1/3 lb lean lamb,ground with
2/3 lb lamb,pork or beef fat
2 T water
1 1/2 T garlic,Minced
2 T fresh cilantro,Chopped
2 T fresh parsley,Chopped
2 T paprika
1 1/2 t cumin,Ground
1 1/2 t coriander,Ground
1 1/4 t cinnamon
3/4 t cayenne pepper
1 1/4 t salt
1/2 t pepper,Freshly Ground
2 feet hog casing
2 T olive oil,optional
1 lg green pepper,optional
2 md onions,optional
Combine all ingredients except the olive oil and the three optional
items in a large bowl and mix well. If making sausages, use the
sausage attachment on a heavy-duty mixer, stuff the casings with the
mixture and twist and tie to make eight 4-inch links. Or shape into
eight 3-inch-long lozenges, slightly fatter in the middle, formed
around metal skewers or into 8 patties.
Preheat grill or broiler.
If the sausages are in casings, prick with a fork 2 to 3 times and
brush with oil. Grill or broil 3 to 4 minutes on each side until
cooked through. For lozenges, brush with oil and cook 3 to 4 minutes
on each side. For patties, brush with oil and grill 4 to 5 minutes on
each side or saute over high heat.
If desired, sausages may be threaded on skewers alternately with
green pepper pieces and onion quarters before grilling. These are great for barbecue's especially if you cook on a charcoal brazier.The recipe makes 4
servings.

The Djellaba

2008-08-19T06:36:00.000-07:00

The Djellaba, a typical robe that you cannot miss from the very first few seconds after arriving in Morocco. According to the many people we have met who have professed to be experts in many areas, there are three basic types of djellaba for men and two basic everyday options for women. For both sexes, the machzania or "government" djellaba is the most common throughout the country. For the men, there are also the northern and the southern djellaba, and for the women there is the kaftanlamic religion of Morocco is also a key factor in the way that Moroccan people dress. The djellaba covers the whole body and is therefore an acceptable modest outfit.

Djellabas come in different shapes and colours, and are worn in different forms. The djellaba is a long, loosely fitting hooded outer robe with full sleeves,that men and women pull over their garments. They are made in many different shapes and colours; generally men wear light colours, which is important as this helps reflect the strong Moroccan sun. Light colours are also available for women to wear but despite this, women choose to wear brighter colors such as pinks, blues and even black. The hood is of vital importance for both sexes as it protects the wearer from the sun and in earlier times was used as a defence against sand being blown into the wearers face by strong desert winds. Djellabas are made of a wide variety of materials, from cotton for summer-time djellabas to coarse wool for winter djellabas. The wool is typically harvested from camel,goats or sheep living in the surrounding mountains and then a long process of turning the wool into yarn is carried out and it is then woven in the fabric to create the garment.

Djellabas are worn by both men and women; the men's style is generally baggier, of darker colors, and plain. Women's djellabas are tighter and can sport elaborate decorative stitching in a variety of colors. Women sometimes add a scarf. Almost all djellabas of both styles include a baggy hood called a 'cob' that comes to a point at the back. Traditionally Djellabas reach right down to the ground but nowadays they are becoming slimmer and shorter.
For a variety of Moroccan Clothing visit our online shop

The Turban

2008-08-19T05:44:00.000-07:00

People have been wearing cloth on their heads since the invention of cloth. Texts and art that survive from many past cultures mention turbans.
The Vedas contain references to turbans being worn in Vedic India.And the ancient Persians wore a conical cap sometimes encircled by bands of cloth.
It is believed that the Arabs of the time of Mohammed, the Islamic prophet, wore Umamah (Arabic: عمامة). They were very useful for fending off the desert sand and protecting the head and face from very high temperatures and strong sunlight. When the great Islamic empires were established, under the first four caliphs, the Umayyads, and the Abbasids, the new rulers wore Umamah. Head wraps then diffused to populations under Islamic rule, even in countries where they were not previously worn.
Probably the largest-ever Turbans were worn by high-ranking Turks of the Ottoman period, including soldiers. These were enormous round turbans, wrapped around a hollow cone or framework, that often projected at the top. Hence they were called "Sarık", meaning "wrapped". From the 19th century the Turks mostly gave up the turban for the fez at the same time as they abandoned their kaftan tunics for more Western dress. Broad-rimmed Western hats did not meet the Islamic requirement that the forehead touch the ground during prayer and the Sultan issued a decree enforcing the wearing of the fez, applicable to all religious groups. Suleiman the Magnificent was renowned for the size of his turban.
Many contemporary images show European men of the Middle Ages and Renaissance wearing headgear that looks like turbans. These hats are actually chaperons, which could look very similar. Men in Europe were expected to take off their headgear in church, and in the presence of a person of much higher rank, like a king. This is not easy with a turban. Turbans also appear in European religious art, especially in scenes picturing the Holy Land, then inhabited by turban-wearers. Turbans did not become a regular part of European headgear until the late 17th century. Men then shaved their heads and wore heavy wigs; when relaxing at home, they removed the wigs and covered their heads with caps or sometimes turbans.

Whats a serving Tagine?

2008-08-10T02:13:00.000-07:00

A Serving Tagine, normally very decorative, sometimes hand painted.Is used for serving food, it presents your meal perfectly and adds decoration and colour to your table. The conical lid helps to keep your food warm and protected.
These tagines are normally made from a finer or white clay, the better quality ones are made from porcelain and can be bought with other dishes like soup bowls and plates all carrying the same design.
It is not recommended to cook with these tagines as they are not designed to stand extreme heat .

Some designs are so exquisite the tagines become ornaments. they also make great storage pots with the smaller ones being used for spices,salts, etc

Mohammed Alaoui

2008-08-09T08:13:00.000-07:00

Food:
Ive talked about Moroccan food many times.
Some of the best meals I've ever had have been in the house of Mohammed.
Having worked as a chef for many years his knowledge of Moroccan cuisine is incredible and he is always ready to share is knowledge.A typicle day with Mohammed would be to visit his house on the outskirts of Tangiers were you would take a typicle Moroccan lunch.
When visiting Morocco buying for Shop-Morocco I never miss a stay with Mohammed were we spend many a evening discussing the ways of the world.

Artisan:
When it comes to Moroccan artisan Mohammed is the master,Icould not of formed Shop-Morocco without him, His knowledge a help as been invaluable.
Whether it's carpets,ceramics or leather wear Mohammed is a sorce of endless information.

Tangiers (Morocco) would not be the same without this great man.
Mohammed Alaoui ,Ambassador to Morocco.

Any one interested in visiting Tangiers for the day with a real guide, can contact me esteve@shop-morocco.com

Moroccan Lamb & Okra Tagine

2008-08-06T10:43:00.000-07:00

My mouths watering just writing this, as I've said many times before Morocco is the home of some of the finest cuisine in the world.
So my aim in the following blogs is to share some of these fine recipes.Ive blogged many times on Tagines. It really is the perfect cooking pot, however I'm sure the following recipe would taste nearly as good in a casserole dish or pan.

Moroccan Lamb & Okra Tagine

1 Servings
3/4 lb leg of lamb (or shank)
3/4 t salt
3/4 t black pepper
1/2 c olive oil
1 md onion,chopped
2 t ginger
1 pn saffron or
1/2 t turmeric
2 md tomatoes,peeled and cut in
1 quarters
1 water
3 T cilantro,Chopped
2 T parsley,Chopped
1 lb okra,trimmed

Cut meat into 2-in. chunks; season with salt and pepper; set aside.
Heat olive oil in large Tagine. Add onion, ginger,
saffron, stirring until onion begins to turn translucent. Add meat
and saute briefly to brown, just a minute or two; then add tomatoes
and water to cover and stir. Cover and simmer for 1 hour, or until
meat is tender. Add cilantro, parsley, and okra and adjust water if
needed. Simmer 10 mins. or so, until okra is just tender. Make sure
okra remains whole. Serve in the tagine or even better in a decorated serving tagine (a normal serving plate will equally do), place the meat first, then
top with okra, and finally add the rest of the sauce on top. Garnish
with more chopped parsley, if desired. Serve hot.

According to Legend

2008-08-03T06:14:00.000-07:00

Legand says Tangier was founded by Sophax the son of the Greek god Hercules and Tingus. When Sophax founded the city he named it after his mother Tingus. Tingis, now Tangier, is an ancient Phoenician town; Greek legend ascribes its foundation to the giant Antaeus, whose tomb and skeleton are pointed out in the vicinity, or to Sophax, son of Hercules and the widow of Antaeus.Various coins call it Tenga, Tinga, and Titga, the Greek and Latin authors giving numerous variations of the name. Under the Romans this commercial town became, first, a free city and then, under Augustus, a colony (Colonia Julia, under Claudius), capital of Mauretania Tingitana. Portuguese in the fifteenth century, Spanish in the sixteenth, it became an English possession by the marriage of Charles II with the Infanta Catharine of Portugal. The English vacated it in 1684. When it was bombarded by the Prince de Joinville in 1844, it belonged to Morocco. The natives call it Tandja. It has about 40,000 inhabitants, of whom half are Mussulmans, 10,000 Jews, 9000 Europeans (7500 Spanish). Towards the end of the third century Tangier was the scene of the martyrdom of St. Marcellus, mentioned in the Roman Martyrology on 30 October, and of St. Cassian, mentioned on 3 December. It is not known whether it was a diocese in ancient times. Under the Portuguese domination it was a suffragan of Lisbon, and in 1570 was united to the Diocese of Ceuta. Six of its bishops are known, the first, who did not reside in his see, in 1468. Tangier is now the residence of the prefect Apostolic of Morocco, which mission is in charge of the Friars Minor. It has a Catholic church, several chapels, schools, and a hospital.
Tangiers has always been a international city. With agreements as early as the 1905, in 1923 an area of 380 square kilometers, with over 150'000 inhabitants formed the international zone which was finalised by treaty. In its peak in the 1950s, Tangiers international comunities numbered over 60,000,nearly half the population.This foreign influence as remained to present date.

More than a Drink

2008-07-25T13:54:00.000-07:00

Mint tea isn't just a Moroccan drink. It is a sign of hospitality and friendship, traditionand a way of life. Because this drink is so popular, it is served all day long, after every meal and with every conversation. Moroccans take great pride in their tea.And we have the best recipe

Moroccan whiskey?

2008-07-23T04:48:00.000-07:00

Although the origin of tea in Morocco is much debated. Several theories attribute it to various sources. One claims that Morocco's taste for green tea evolved from the first Phoenicians who visited the area. Another asserts it originates from Andalusia at the time of the Spanish reconquest. Yet another hypothesis extends further back in time to the Berbers, the first inhabitants of North Africa, who originally came from Central Asia.Most of the tea consumed in Morocco today, comes from China although several brands are processed in Morocco.wich as also aquired the name gun powder.

Moroccan tea,lovingly refered to as Moroccan whiskey.Is as much a way of life as a refreshing drink.Mastering the art of making Moroccan tea is well worth the effort it involves. To make about a litre of tea, first heat the teapot. Add about 1 1/2 Tablespoons of Moroccan tea (gun powder), a handful of fresh whole mint leaves with their sprigs intact, and between 150 - 180 grams of lump sugar. Swirl the liquids around and then quickly pour out the water, taking care not to lose any of the leaves or undisolved sugar. (Moroccans swear this takes the bitterness out of the tea). Add the mint and and more sugar to taste and pour in about 1 litre of boiling water. Let the mixture brew for about 6 - 8 minutes.

The technique of pouring the tea is almost as crucial to the success of hosts as the quality of the tea they use. This becomes easier to understand when one realizes that all Moroccan tea pots have long, curved pouring spouts and this allow the tea to be poured into even the tiniest of tea glasses from a height of half a metre or more. Practice is definitely advised before trying this with your guests. Moroccans like their tea lightly flavored by herbs, only rarely is it served "neat". The most popular herb added to tea is mint. This is normally added to the pot whilst brewing,Several leaves may also be added to the tea glass for extra flavor.

Buying a Moroccan Rug Tips!

2008-07-19T12:32:00.000-07:00

Buying a Moroccan Rug

Size and Shape:
Firstly size and shape should be considered, depending on your personal tastes, furniture, and space available. Is the rug to used as a centerpiece of a large room, or do you need a few small rugs for fun placed around the house? Runners look great in hallways, while square rugs might be best suited for your office space. Rectangular rugs are by far the most common shape and more widely available. Shop Morocco has a large array of shapes and sizes,with new rugs being added frequently.

Colors:

colors are the key. Everyone sees colourful rug in slightly different ways. The colours of handmade Moroccan rugs can vary from dominant, rich, red hues to calm beige and camel variations. You'll find that the color of your rug seems to vary over the course of the day, as natural lighting has a magical effect on the wool and silk materials of high quality rugs. And you might feel that there are too many complex colors in one rug. You will be amazed, however, when some subtle colors in a complex design are enhanced by the color of your walls, furniture, and floors.

Styles and Textures:
Don't limit yourself to one style. It's quite probable there are enough unique rugs and styles for everybody. Rug styles involve everything from complex geometrical designs to colorful animal shapes,or bold blocks of colors.There are many textures to choose from, thick wool pile to the luxurious feeling of a silk

Prices:
As with most things the price usally governs the item you buy and as with most thingsyou normally get what you pay for.With Shop Morocco you get real value for money,genuine Moroccan Rugs

In the end, what you need to know before you buy a handmade Moroccan rug is what you like. Try to spend some time searching, and you will fall in love with the right rug as you unroll it on your family floor.

The Souks

2008-07-16T14:13:00.000-07:00

At the heart of all Moroccan towns are the souks which group together traders and craftsmen: cobblers and jewellers, apothecaries and leather makers, carpet,rug and fabric sellers, potters and weavers. They very often set up shop in separate but neighbouring districts according to ancestral tradition and local custom, hence the maze of streets. Although each town has its market, some souks like the ones in Marrakech, Fez and Meknès have become legendary and an essential place to visit.
A key feature in traditional town planning, the souk is explored rather than just visited. Protected from the sun by plaited reed panels, it is a pleasure to walk through the narrow, bustling streets. Here, machinery has remained simple. Rugs, pottery, leather items or jewellery
As everywhere in the orient, haggling is part of tradition. It is a subtle exercise that combines social relations, games and acting. Accept the mint tea you will be offered, look around the goods presented and hide your interest if you like something. All the pleasure of haggling comes from the time spent in the coolness of the shop. Discussions focus on a carpet or piece of jewellery of course, but also on the country, travelling and life. A golden rule: take your time! are made with the same confident and precise gestures that have guided Moroccan craftsmen for generations.

Moroccan cooking

2008-07-13T04:31:00.000-07:00

The cooking of Morocco has a facinating pedigree.While the cooking of the indigenous Berbers has always been a constant basis for the creation of new recipes.The ancestry of Moroccan cooking also includes Arabic,Persian and Andalusian influences.How all these inputs mixed to create Moroccan cuisine is a matter of history.

The Arabs spread across North Africa under the banner Islam and,with the Berbers,invaded the Iberian Peninsula in 711,Today known as Spain and Portugal.They dominated the region for 7 centuries.They were known as the Moors.

The Arabs named the peninsula Al Adaluz and introduced the cultivation of the safron crocus,citrus fruits,almonds,rice,and sugar cane.And the use of spices.

The full extent of Arabic culture,learning,medicine,cooking,architecture and agriculture took flower in Al Andaluz, mirroring what was flurishing in the courts of the caliphs of Bagdad.Who in turn had learned so much fron the Persians.This was in the era of a Thousand and One Arabian nights,Atime when cookbooks were written and food was extolled in poetry.

From the11th to the 13th century,the Berber dynasties of the Almoravides and the Almohades ruled in Al Andaluz and Morocco.The lavish court kitchens of Fez,Rabat,Meknes,and Marrakesh were the conduit by which new foods were introduced and recipes refined,a process wich continued with the later Berber dynasties.

The result is a cuisine that is unique,One that makes the most of the ingredients it produces.This is evident in the many dishes that use fruit for the sweet and sour flavours they impart.A Persian influence introduced by the Arabs,evolving into dishes that can only be Moroccan.

The Berbers most important contribution to Moroccan cooking was couscus,the light and elegant grain regarded as the pasta of the Magherb.Wheaten couscous is made into pelets with semolina grains and flour.However cracked barley and maize are also used.

The best Moroccan food is without doubt that which is cooked in the home.The women are the cooks,the custodians of recipes that are handed down from mother to daughter.No recipe books are needed,all is memorized ready to be passed to the next generation.

Although Moroccan cooking is adaptable to modern utensils,The traditional earthenware cooking pot the Tagine gives its own unique flavour and caracture to the food.

Visit our Tagine blog for loads of useful info and recipes

Shopping in Tangiers

2008-06-29T05:26:00.000-07:00

Shopping in Tangiers is a mixture of excitement, surprise and stress.

The excitement of the unknown mixed with the surprise of culture and artisan with the medina full of Moroccan artisan, goods, spices and perfumes. The smell of spices is always in the air a smell that brings back memories every time you visit. Tangiers is barter town and as been from the start. This is the way business is done, although a little stressful to the newcomer. Stand by your price (normally 50% less than the asking) this will not only gain you a bargain but also respect from the person selling.

Tangier or Tanger (as referred to by the Spanish) lies on the northern tip of Africa nearly touching Tarifa in the most southern tip of Spain. With only 15k between the nearest point of both continents. In the early 20s Tangier was one of the top resorts of the Mediterranean. The town sitting on the meeting point like Tarifa of the Mediterranean and Atlantic Oceans. It was an international city with its own laws and administration.

Legand says Tangier was founded by Sophax the son of the Greek god Hercules and Tingus. When Sophax founded the city he named it after his mother Tingus.

Tangiers has always been a international city. With agreements as early as the 1905, in 1923 an area of 380 square kilometers, with over 150'000 inhabitants formed the international zone which was finalized by treaty. In its peak in the 1950s, Tangiers international communities numbered over 60,000,nearly half the population.This foreign influence as remained to present date.

Tangiers is made up of 3 parts the Medina; the origional moroccan town with its classic web of passages. The Ville Nouvelle,The new town built buy European colonist. And The Avenue d'Espagne, The beach front. This is the newest area for development and as escalated dramatically in recent years.

Tangiers is pushing itself once again to be the most stylish resort on the Mediterranean. With much development on the Mediterranean coastline.

For me I prefer the Medina with its classic allyways,stepped passages and years of history, The original Tangiers.

The Medina is full of interesting shops and stalls the main theme being Artisan. Although nowadays it seems to be moving more towards leather goods and fashion items such as handbags etc. Which is a real shame as Morocco is famous for its artisan. It’s ceramics and pots. The Tagine a Moroccan cooking pot still used today. And even more for it's Carpets. These woven treasures are a representation of centuries of exquisite artistry and meticulous craftsmanship. A true art passed down through the centuries. Moroccan carpets are famous for the quality of wool, cotton and silk used in there weavings. And for their striking colors produced by natural dyes.

Tangier can easily be reached from Europe, There is a international airport 15k outside the city, and a large port with fast ferry connections to Tarifa, Algeciras and Gibralta. Tarifa being the closest with a 35min connection. The ferry port is only 10mins walk from the Medina.

For the more adventurous There is a ferry from Algeciras to Spanish Ceuta on the African coast. Then a hours drive to Tangier along what can only be described as a beautiful and interesting coastline.

Moroccan Artisan Carpets

2008-06-21T16:50:00.000-07:00

Morocco’s appeal to travelers is Artisan normally available for a decent price. And, for those gifted with the art of bartering a even better price can be achieved. One of the most sought after items in Morocco are carpets. For those armed with the knowledge of what makes a quality carpet and a basic price range to begin the wheeling and dealing, buying a carpet in Morocco can be a rewarding experience (and make your living room look astounding).

Local Moroccan women who make the carpets often are not the ones who end up selling them. In some small villages, where women’s cooperatives exist (and in Moroccan artisanal cooperatives – talked about in our last article), the women are involved in pricing and selling process. They might even have set prices, which are what many travelers prefer, especially if they aren’t into bargaining while sipping tea for two or more hours in a crowded medina alleyway.

Therefore, if possible, attempt to visit a local artisanal shop or women’s cooperative to have an idea of what prices are fair for different types of carpets. One type of carpet is the heavy woolen type that is available throughout the country. In Rabat, which is one epicenter for these types of carpets, travelers can search the medina – which happens to be one of the most laid-back souk areas in the entire country. These types of carpets are different than others you’ll find elsewhere in Morocco because of their design that holds true to basic Islamic Art patterns. Usually, these carpets have one central motif that works its way to a highly detailed border. Before looking at a carpets central theme, look over its border. If it is detailed, solid, and thick, then the carpet will cost more money than another without the same outer-edge workmanship.

Knowing the different prices for carpets is quite difficult. The rule goes: If a buyer is happy with the price, then it is a fair price to pay. While this thought process is a little different for western travelers who would rather have something fixed, you’ll begin to understand the mentality better after a few days’ experience in various marketplaces. An old antique carpet that is more than 50 years old, for example, will be worth quite a bit of money, especially if it has been taken care of and withstood the tests of time. Other, more modern carpets may appear bright and illustrious, but their colors will fade over time – something that actually adds to the original look and feel of the piece. Knowing the difference between what chemical and natural (or vegetable) dyes will help.

Overall, a Carpet can be judged by how many knots it has per square meter (or yard). Excellent carpets that fetch the highest prices might have nearly 350,000 knots in it per square meter (or about 300,000 per square yard). This type of workmanship is hard to find, but can be had if one looks hard enough. If a carpet vendor claims that their carpets have more knots than this, then you know that it is a far-fetched tale. Additionally, outside of the Rabat region, carpets vary in length, design, and craftsmanship. With hundreds (if not thousands) of types available, it will be dependent upon your taste and ability to spot a well-made piece that determines what sort of carpet you’ll bring home. These patterns will include geometrical patterning and not have outlandish repetitions of the same design. These carpets are often called hanbels or kilims. Other carpets, which are thicker and well made, are called zaneefi designs, while a shoedwi is a type of carpet that is usually made up of mostly black and white designs.

For a fair range of Moroccan Carpets visit Shop Morocco this is a truly hassle free experience, with many carpets at very reasonable prices