What Is Maakouda? (Moroccan Potato Fritter)

Maakouda is made from boiled, mashed potato mixed with garlic, cumin, turmeric, fresh coriander and parsley (sometimes a little egg or flour to bind), shaped into small flat rounds, coated and deep-fried until golden and crisp. The inside stays soft and fragrant with the spices and herbs.

It is naturally vegetarian, cheap and very satisfying — comfort food in fritter form.

Maakouda is sold hot from street stalls and snack shops, eaten on its own (often with a dab of fiery harissa or a sprinkle of cumin and salt) as a quick bite, or — popularly — stuffed into a crusty bread roll, sometimes with other fillings (egg, salad, sauces) to make a cheap, filling sandwich.

It is a staple of casual Moroccan eating and a great vegetarian street-food option.

Look for maakouda at street-food stalls, sandwich shops and market eateries across Morocco, especially in cities — follow the smell of frying and the queues of locals. It costs just a few dirham, making it perfect budget eating.

Try it in a sandwich with harissa for the full effect, alongside other street snacks like brochettes and msemen. It is also popular during Ramadan as part of the iftar spread.