Historians differ as to when they think tea was introduced to
Moroccan culture. Although some say it may have been as early as
the 12th century, others claim that it was only as recently as
the 18th century. If the latter is correct, Moroccans were quick
to embrace tea drinking as a norm of their own, resulting in
Morocco's current standing as one of the top importers of tea
worldwide. Today, Morocco's famous mint tea – green tea steeped
with lots of spearmint – has become symbolic not only of
Moroccan cuisine, but also of Moroccan hospitality and culture.
Many families serve the markedly sweet beverage several times a
day with or without food, and both drop-in and invited company
can expect to be offered tea as a welcoming gesture. While the
Moroccan tradition of honoring the guest may be rooted in
Islamic etiquette, Moroccans are renowned for elevating that
standard of hospitality to an exceptional level. As such, even
new acquaintances and unexpected guests will be encouraged to
drink glass after glass of