Moroccan Gold, Argan Oil.
Argan oil, is now a must have product in any kitchen. Native only to Morocco and Algeria this oil with its strong nutty flavour is one of the treasures of the Moroccan souks.
The ancient gnarled Argan tree ( much adored by Moroccan goats for climbing practice) produces its nutty off spring once a year around July, when the nut is nice and browned by the sun, the bitter tasting nuts are roasted. Then the seeds in the centre of the nut are ground together by hand to produce the oil. The oil producers are often small co operatives run by women. The production of this oil is another product helping to keep small villages and their rural traditions alive along the coastal areas of Morocco.
This product is rich in healthy fatty acids and is not only used for cooking but in cosmetic products such as soaps and lotions. Traditional Moroccan herbalists have been using argan oil for skin ailments for centuries.
The Argan forests are now Unesco protected so lets hope the goats get the message and stay out the trees.
A good place to buy Argan oil here in Marrakech is at Marrakech Bio Diététique, in the Mellah area of the Medina.
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I’m so glad you made this post. I think Argan Oil is one of the most unique things Morocco has to offer. That being said, it took me several years to figure out how to use it.
Now I use it on my salads every day, mixed with Tarragon vinegar, salt , and pepper. It’s also delicious poured in a flat bowl, with just a light shake of salt, to mop up whole wheat or French breads with. Absolutely delicious.
I also take it for gifts when I go back home!
I love your photos! When I first came to Morocco, I thoguht the photos of goats in the trees were a joke, but since learned they are absolutely real.
Madame Monet
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