Moroccan Mint Tea: A Tradition of Hospitality

Drinks · Moroccan

Moroccan mint tea in a golden-yellow Tapis Spiral glass with fresh mint and a delicate crown of tea bubbles

In Morocco, mint tea is more than a drink. It is a gesture of welcome, a reason to gather, and a beautiful daily ritual.

Traditionally prepared with Chinese gunpowder green tea, fresh spearmint, and sugar, Moroccan mint tea is served in small decorative glasses rather than mugs.

And then comes the magic: the pour.

The teapot is raised above the glass, allowing a slender stream of tea to fall through the air. As the tea lands, tiny bubbles gather on the surface, creating a delicate crown known as the taj.

This crown isn't cream or milk foam. It's simply tea, air, and the practiced art of pouring.

Ingredients

Serves approximately 4–6 small glasses

  • 1 tablespoon loose gunpowder green tea

  • 1 generous handful fresh spearmint

  • 3 cups hot water, plus a little extra for rinsing

  • 2–4 tablespoons sugar, or to taste

Instructions

  1. Rinse the tea. Place the green tea leaves in a heatproof teapot. Add a small amount of hot water, swirl briefly, and discard the rinse.

  2. Add the mint. Place the fresh mint and sugar into the teapot.

  3. Steep. Add 3 cups of hot water and allow the tea to infuse for approximately 3–5 minutes.

  4. Mix the flavors. Pour a glass of tea, then return it carefully to the teapot. Repeat once or twice to blend the ingredients.

  5. Create the taj. Hold the teapot above a Moroccan tea glass and pour in a thin, steady stream. The falling tea creates a delicate crown of tiny bubbles.

  6. Serve and enjoy. Share immediately, while the tea is fragrant and warm.

The Secret of the Taj

The beautiful bubbles on Moroccan mint tea come from the way it is poured, not from an added ingredient. A confident, steady pour from a little height helps aerate the tea.

Start low and gradually raise the teapot as you become comfortable. The goal is a graceful stream, not a splash!

Bring the Tradition Home

Serve your tea in Zamouri Spices' golden-yellow Tapis Spiral Moroccan Tea Glasses. Their decorative spirals and stars catch the light as beautifully as the amber tea inside.

Back to Recipes