Few beverages are as soulful, aromatic, and culturally rich as Moroccan mint tea. More than a drink, it’s a ritual of hospitality, conversation, and calm. In Morocco, offering mint tea is a gesture of welcome and respect, poured with elegance and enjoyed slowly. This authentic Moroccan mint tea recipe brings that same comforting ritual into your home using just a handful of ingredients and time-honored technique.
Table of Contents
What Is Moroccan Mint Tea?
Moroccan mint tea, often called atay, is traditionally made with Chinese gunpowder green tea, fresh spearmint, and generous sugar. The tea is brewed strong, sweetened generously, and aerated by pouring from a height to create a light foam on top. This balance of bitterness, sweetness, and herbal freshness defines authentic Moroccan mint tea.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 tablespoon Chinese gunpowder green tea
- 1 large bunch fresh spearmint (about 1 packed cup)
- 4–6 tablespoons granulated sugar (to taste)
- 4 cups filtered water
Authentic Moroccan Mint Tea Recipe
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 4 small glasses
Calories: ~60 per serving
Instructions
- Bring the water to a boil in a kettle.
- Add the green tea to a teapot and pour in about ½ cup of boiling water. Swirl gently and discard this water to rinse the tea.
- Add the remaining boiling water to the teapot.
- Steep for 2 minutes, then add fresh mint and sugar.
- Steep another 3 minutes.
- Stir gently or pour a small amount into a glass and return it to the pot to mix.
- Pour from a height into small glasses to create foam.
Traditional Pouring Technique
The signature foam on Moroccan mint tea isn’t just for show it enhances aroma and texture. Pouring from 12–18 inches above the glass aerates the tea and signals mastery of the ritual.
Substitutions & Dietary Swaps
- No gunpowder tea? Use high-quality green tea leaves.
- Low sugar: Reduce sugar or substitute honey or agave.
- Caffeine-free: Use mint only for a herbal infusion.
Chef’s Pro Tips
- Always use spearmint, not peppermint.
- Never squeeze mint leaves this releases bitterness.
- Taste before serving and adjust sweetness.
Make Ahead, Storage & Reheating
Moroccan mint tea is best fresh. If needed, store refrigerated up to 24 hours and gently reheat without boiling.
Troubleshooting & Common Mistakes
- Too bitter: Over-steeped tea reduce brew time.
- Flat flavor: Not enough mint or sugar.
- No foam: Pour from higher and slower.
Flavor Pairings & Serving Suggestions
Serve Moroccan mint tea with traditional sweets like Harsha, baghrir or alongside savory pastries. It also pairs beautifully after meals with any sweet.
Moroccan Mint Tea
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring the water to a boil in a kettle.
- Add the green tea to a teapot. Pour in about 1/2 cup boiling water, swirl gently for a quick rinse, then discard the rinse water.
- Add the remaining boiling water to the teapot and steep for 2 minutes.
- Add the fresh spearmint and sugar. Steep for 3 more minutes.
- Mix the tea: pour a little into a glass and return it to the pot (or stir gently) to evenly dissolve the sugar.
- Pour from a height (about 12–18 inches) into tea glasses to aerate and create a light foam. Serve warm.
Notes
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Moroccan mint tea always sweet?
Traditionally, yes! but sweetness can be adjusted.
Can I drink it cold?
Yes, it’s refreshing over ice in warm weather.
What mint is best? Fresh spearmint is essential for authentic flavor.
Do I need a Moroccan teapot?
Helpful but not required any heat-safe teapot works.
Is Moroccan mint tea healthy?
Green tea and mint offer antioxidants and digestive benefits.
Conclusion
This authentic Moroccan mint tea recipe captures the heart of Moroccan hospitality simple ingredients, mindful preparation, and shared enjoyment. Brew a pot, pour with confidence, and savor every fragrant sip. If you loved this recipe, explore more global tea rituals and comforting drinks in our collection.
Learn more about tea health benefits from the National Institutes of Health.