Nous-Nous (Half-Half Coffee)

About This Dish

Morocco's signature coffee order — a glass of half espresso, half steamed milk, from which it gets the name nous-nous (half-half in Darija). Served in a small glass rather than a cup, this drink is the fuel of Moroccan cafe culture. Men gather at sidewalk cafes across the country to sip nous-nous while watching the world go by, discussing politics, or watching football. The coffee is typically made with a dark Italian-style espresso blend, and the milk is steamed to a light froth. Ordering a nous-nous is the fastest way to feel like a local at any Moroccan cafe.

Ingredients

• 1 shot (30 ml) Espresso
• 30 ml Steamed milk
• to taste Sugar (optional)

Instructions

1. 1

   Pull a shot of espresso into a small glass.

2. 2

   Steam milk until frothy.

3. 3

   Pour steamed milk into the espresso — half and half.

4. 4

   Add sugar to taste. Serve in a small glass.

Tips & Tricks

• The glass (not a cup) is essential to the experience.
• Moroccan cafes use a dark roast — the stronger the better.
• Many Moroccans add significant sugar to their nous-nous.