The Allure of Fès Medina

The air was thick with the scent of spices and the distant hum of a bustling market as I wandered through the labyrinthine streets of Fès Medina. The city, with its ancient walls and hidden corners, whispered stories of a time long past. It was here, amidst the echoes of history, that I found myself drawn to the Moroccan Cooking Class—a chance to delve into the culinary secrets of this enigmatic land.

As an urban explorer, I am no stranger to the allure of forgotten places, but this was different. The vibrant energy of Fès was a stark contrast to the decaying remnants of Soviet-era cities I often find myself in. Yet, there was a familiar sense of mystery in the air, a promise of untold stories waiting to be uncovered. The cooking class promised not just a taste of Moroccan cuisine, but a glimpse into the soul of a culture rich with tradition.

A Dance of Flavors and Techniques

The class was held at the renowned Palais Bab Sahra, a place where the art of Moroccan cooking was celebrated in all its glory. Our instructor, a master of her craft, guided us through the intricate process of creating Moroccan crepes and pancakes. Each step was a dance, a delicate balance of technique and intuition.

As I donned my apron and took my place in the kitchen, I was reminded of the architectural precision I so often admire in my explorations. The way the ingredients came together, each playing its part in the creation of something greater, was akin to the way bricks and mortar form the skeleton of a forgotten building. The crepes, with their delicate layers, were a testament to the artistry of Moroccan cuisine.

The highlight, however, was the bread—a staple of Moroccan culture, each region boasting its own unique technique. Our instructor spoke of the rich variety of breads found throughout Morocco, each with its own story to tell. In Fès, the bread was particularly special, a reflection of the city’s vibrant history and cultural tapestry.

The Ritual of Mint Tea

No Moroccan meal is complete without the ritual of mint tea, and our class was no exception. As we gathered around the table, the aroma of freshly brewed tea filled the air, mingling with the scent of our culinary creations. It was a moment of reflection, a chance to savor the fruits of our labor and share stories of our journeys.

In that moment, I felt a connection to the city and its people, a sense of belonging that transcended the boundaries of time and place. The tea, with its soothing warmth, was a reminder of the simple pleasures in life, a balm for the soul amidst the chaos of the world.

As I sipped my tea and listened to the stories of my fellow travelers, I realized that this experience was more than just a cooking class. It was a journey into the heart of Morocco, a chance to uncover the hidden gems of Fès and connect with a culture that values tradition and community.

In the end, it was the stories—the tales of bread and tea, of crepes and pancakes—that lingered in my mind, a reminder of the beauty and mystery that lies in the forgotten corners of the world.