Would you like a loaf of sugar with your tea?

If I’d stay much longer in Morocco, I would’ve returned with rotten teeth. Swear.

Let’s start with a few points of interest. Morocco is one of the biggest tea importers of the world, it’s a very important part of the culture, and unlike everything else the women take care of, the tea ritual is traditionally a man’s affair. Refuse it and it’s considered impolite. No worries here as I could drink it all day, thus the rotten teeth I would have if I did.

There’s a Moroccan tradition to give a loaf of sugar as gifts to mark family events, the birth of a baby or the passing of a family member. (Heather – we promise! You’re not getting a loaf from us for your wedding!)

Pouring is an art form, the teapot is held high in the air and poured back in the pot multiple times to make sure the sugar is distributed properly. It’s a showy feat and one that takes lots of practice. Right Suzan?

It all starts with a little mint purchase from the local market…

Of course, the woman has to heat the water…

Add a little tea, a little mint and a hell of a lot of sugar…and pour!