In Morocco, a glass of mint tea is never just a drink. It is a welcome, a sign of friendship and a reason to sit down and talk. Whether you arrive at a riad in Fes, enter a carpet shop or reach a desert camp in Merzouga, someone will almost certainly offer you a glass of sweet, fragrant atay.
This guide explains the history of Moroccan mint tea, the ritual behind it, and how to make it at home so you can bring a taste of Morocco back with you.
What Is Moroccan Mint Tea?
Moroccan mint tea is made from Chinese green tea, usually the gunpowder variety, fresh spearmint and sugar. It is brewed in a metal teapot, poured from a height into small decorated glasses and served throughout the day.
The result is sweet, refreshing and aromatic. Locals sometimes call it “Berber whisky” as a joke, because it is the national drink served at every gathering.
A Short History
Green tea is not native to Morocco. It is widely believed that tea arrived in larger quantities through trade with Europe, especially British merchants, in the 18th and 19th centuries. Moroccans combined the imported green tea with local fresh mint and generous sugar, and a national tradition was born.
Over time, tea spread from the cities and the royal court to every home in the country, from the medinas of Fes to the nomadic tents of the Sahara.
The Meaning of Tea in Moroccan Hospitality
Offering tea is the most common way to welcome a guest. Refusing it can seem cold, so even if you only take a sip, accepting the glass is a kind gesture.
Tea is usually prepared by the host or the head of the family, and serving it well is a point of pride. It is often accompanied by biscuits, nuts, dates or traditional pastries. Learn more about local customs in our guide to Moroccan culture and traditions.
Why Is Tea Poured From So High?
The famous high pour is not just for show. Pouring from a height:
- Aerates the tea and creates a light foam on top, which is a sign of a well-made tea.
- Cools it slightly so it can be enjoyed sooner.
- Mixes the sugar evenly through the glass.
Tea is often poured back into the pot once or twice to mix it before serving.
The Three Glasses Tradition
A well-known saying describes the three glasses often served:
- The first glass is gentle, like life.
- The second is strong, like love.
- The third is bitter, like death.
The taste really does change as the tea continues to brew, which is why the saying has lasted.
How to Make Moroccan Mint Tea at Home
Ingredients (for 4 to 6 small glasses)
- 1 tablespoon Chinese gunpowder green tea
- 1 large bunch of fresh spearmint
- 3 to 5 tablespoons sugar, to taste
- About 750 ml boiling water
Step-by-step
- Rinse the tea. Put the green tea in the teapot, add a small glass of boiling water, swirl and pour this first glass into a cup. Keep it aside: this is the “spirit” of the tea.
- Wash the leaves. Add another small amount of boiling water, swirl and throw it away. This removes bitterness and dust.
- Add back the spirit. Pour the first glass back into the teapot.
- Add mint and sugar. Press the mint into the pot and add sugar.
- Fill and brew. Fill with boiling water and let it brew for 3 to 5 minutes, or briefly heat the pot on a low flame.
- Mix. Pour a glass and return it to the pot two or three times.
- Serve. Pour from a height into small glasses to create foam.
Variations
In winter, some families add sage, wormwood (chiba) or verbena. In the south and the desert, tea tends to be stronger and sweeter.
Where to Try the Best Mint Tea in Morocco
- On a rooftop terrace in Fes overlooking the medina.
- In a traditional riad on arrival.
- Around the fire in a Sahara desert camp after sunset.
- In a Berber family home in the Atlas Mountains.
Want to learn more Moroccan recipes? Join a cooking class in Fes and discover how to make tagine, salads and tea like a local.
Buying Tea Souvenirs
A traditional teapot, a set of coloured glasses and a bag of gunpowder tea make lovely souvenirs. You will find them in the souks of Fes and Marrakech. For buying tips, see our Fes shopping guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Moroccan mint tea always sweet?
Traditionally yes, but you can ask for it with less sugar (“shwiya sukkar”) or without sugar.
Does Moroccan mint tea contain caffeine?
Yes, because it is made with green tea.
Which mint is used?
Spearmint (nana) is the classic choice.
Is it rude to refuse tea?
It is not a serious offence, but accepting at least one glass is considered polite.
Experience Moroccan Hospitality
From a welcome tea in your riad to tea under the stars in the Sahara, mint tea will be part of every day of your trip. Discover authentic Morocco with Fes Morocco Tours and explore our Morocco desert tours.
