Before we start the list of our best places to eat a tagine in Casa, we will repeat that the best moroccan food you can get is in a moroccan house cooked with love.
Where does the tagine come from?
There are various theories about the etymology of the word “tagine”. Some believe that the name originates from the name given to the god of rain and thunder El Tajin, worshipped by the Totonaques of Mexico, while others claim that the tagine was a gift from the Phoenicians who visited Morocco in the 12th century. This second hypothesis seems to be the most accepted.
For the record, the Berbers, the first settlers in North Africa, made similar clay vessels in a semi-circular shape or with bell-shaped lids. This type of dish can be found in many Roman ruins.
This ancient cooking technique, made possible by the shape of the dish, avoids adding large quantities of water to the food, as the juice comes directly from the ingredients cooking in it.
How is the tagine cooking dish made?
The Tagine dish, which is used to prepare the well-known dish of the same name, is made of clay. It has become very popular and is now available in supermarkets, but we advise you to buy the traditional versions made by local craftsmen, which can be found in the souks or often on the side of the roads in the country side.
Where to eat the best tagines in Casablanca?
Now that the historical and cultural part is done. Here is the most important part, where to eat the best tagines in Casablanca.
La Sqala
La Sqala is a real haven of peace and freshness with its fountains, its interior garden, and its zellige tables, located a stone’s throw from the old Medina and the old ramparts of the old city. It is famous for its brunch and for its tagines (135-150 mad with meat), especially the tagine of cabri (kid meat), which is difficult to find in Casablanca. The meat is as melting as you could wish for, it is a real little gem to be tasted while licking your fingers. Please note that this tagine is available according to the season.
Dar Dada
It is hard to believe that in these small streets of the old medina of Casablanca hides a pearl of the fassi restoration. Dar Dada is a superb riad, very elegant and warm, which offers a friendly traditional oriental atmosphere. The welcome and the service are excellent. You can even enjoy your dishes while listening to the live band. We particularly like the lamb tagine with candied prunes, apricots and almonds, a great classic of Moroccan cuisine, executed to perfection at Dar Dada.
AL MOUNIA
Al-Mounia welcomes you in the old quarter of Casa. Behind its rather common frontage, one cannot guess what is hidden behind the portal: a magnificent terrace nestled under an immense hundred-year-old oak tree in a typically Moroccan setting. Victim of its own success, the terrace is often overrun, so we advise you to book in advance to ensure you have a place outside. The tagines cost around 180mad.
Basmane
If you are looking for an establishment that combines Moroccan gastronomy, a pleasant setting and oriental dance entertainment, Basmane is the place to be. You will have to choose (with difficulty) among the specialities on the menu, knowing that the restaurant has been awarded the prestigious “Trophée du Tajine d’Or”. As far as we are concerned, our heart is set on the Guedra pigeon tagine (205 mad) as well as the tagine of bass processed in basmane style (220 mad).
Central Market
We reveal to you one of the best kept secrets of Casa: the central market. You will have the chance to taste some of the best tagines of the white city at the best price.
For authentic cuisine at low prices (from 30 MAD!), head to the Resto-Grill Salaheddine at N°203, where the tagines are succulent. Benefiting from a direct supply of fish from the market, their specialities are the tajine with sardine balls and the fish tajine.
Similarly, at Chez Michel et Hafida you will find a real paradise for seafood lovers. This restaurant specialises in grilled fish and seafood. We invite you to try their fish tagine without any hesitation. Fresh products and a controlled cooking, all in a family atmosphere!
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