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November 26, 2014
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Basmati Rice

This is my basic recipe for preparing basmati rice. The ration of rice to water I use is 1 cup rice to 1 1/2 cups water. The most important element to making perfect rice every time is to make sure you have a pot with a tight fitting lid. If you don’t, take a piece […]

November 24, 2014
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Lamb Tagine with Apricots & Prunes

This is one of those typical Moroccan dishes that combine meat (lamb) with dried fruit. If you’ve never eaten this type of stew, it is far more sophisticated than simply lamb with fruit. The fork tender lamb is cooked in a sauce loaded with spices, and each bite reveals a glorious blend of sweet and […]

November 21, 2014
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Chicken with Preserved Lemons & Olives

Before I even thought about making a Moroccan feast, I was intrigued with preserved lemons. I made this recipe and asked a few friends to sample it. My newly converted vegan friend waited until everyone had served themselves and then he scraped the sauce off the chicken, piled it on his plate and declared, “This […]

November 19, 2014
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Fennel Salad

Fennel is generally an underused vegetable. The slight licorice flavor and crunchy texture allow for endless possibilities. It can be eaten raw or cooked. In this recipe, it is sauteed and combined with grilled carrots, preserved lemon and actual fennel seeds. It’s a wonderful salad as part of a Moroccan feast or side dish to serve […]

October 31, 2014
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Grilled Eggplant with Honey & Harissa

  This dish is a great example of the magical blend of heat, savory and spices. The harissa creates the heat and the garlic, ginger and cumin — the savory, and the honey balances it all with a touch of sweetness. Don’t worry: This dish does not taste sweet. The honey brings all the flavors […]

October 29, 2014
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Dried Fruit Compote with Grand Marnier

  My grandmother used to make a fruit compote or “stewed fruit” as she called it, that she served with dinner. She made everything with a sprinkling of love, so I happily scarfed down anything she offered. I miss her, but I don’t miss that compote. The fruit was cooked so long that it was […]

October 27, 2014
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Almond Orange Cake

This is a recipe inspired by the flavors of Moroccan cuisine: Many Moroccan desserts use almond paste and orange flower water. Instead of orange flower water, I use orange extract and Grand Marnier, almond paste and almond extract. These flavors combine to create a moist, delectable cake. This cake doesn’t look impressive but watch your […]

October 24, 2014
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Beet Salad with Oranges and Feta

Before beets were trendy, I always loved them. I used to be in the minority and now my friends have figured it out. This salad is a feast for the eyes as well as the palate. The natural sweetness of the beets is complimented by the saltiness of the feta and the slight acidic note […]

October 22, 2014
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Artichoke Salad with Saffron and Preserved Lemons

Until I started reading about Moroccan food, I had no idea that artichokes were featured in the cuisine. In this recipe, they are treated to a glorious bath that includes preserved lemons, saffron, honey and other spices. The flavor is unique and wonderful! This can be made early in the day and served at room […]