Marrakech: Moroccan Cooking Class at La Maison Arabe

Summary

Moroccan flavors hands-on cooking class in Marrakech riad

You’ll sip mint tea in a quiet Marrakech courtyard, learn bread-making from a dada, cook chicken tagine with preserved lemons and olives using fresh local ingredients, then share lunch with new friends right where you cooked it all. Expect laughter, honest flavors, and small moments that linger long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll admit, I wasn’t sure what to expect from a Moroccan cooking class in Marrakech. The morning felt slow and a bit hazy — maybe it was the city’s honeyed light or just my nerves about kneading dough in front of strangers. But as soon as we stepped into the courtyard near La Maison Arabe, with its cool tiles and faint smell of orange blossom, I felt something shift. Our guide grinned and handed us tiny glasses of mint tea, steam curling up under my nose. I tried to say “shukran” (thank you) but probably sounded like I had marbles in my mouth. The dada — that’s the traditional cook — just smiled and patted my arm.

Watching her hands move was almost hypnotic. She showed us how to make bread first, slapping the dough against the counter with this satisfying thump that made everyone laugh. There was a translator switching between French and English (and some Arabic for good measure), so nobody felt left out. When we started prepping the chicken tagine with preserved lemons and olives, the room filled up with this warm citrusy scent that honestly made me hungry way too early. Someone asked if we’d get to eat what we cooked — our guide just winked.

I loved how personal it all felt; no fancy chef hats or anything, just real people sharing recipes their grandmothers taught them. My hands smelled like cumin for hours afterward. Lunch was served right there at our own little stations, and I still think about that first bite — tangy, salty, somehow comforting even though I’d never tasted anything quite like it before. If you’re after a day trip cooking class in Marrakech that feels welcoming (and not intimidating), this is it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Moroccan cooking workshop experience

• Meet interpreter and introduction
• Moroccan tea ceremony
• Watch Moroccan bread demonstration
• Cook with the Dada
• Taste dishes and optional Moroccan wines

Top questions

How long does the Moroccan cooking class last?

There are two options: an express 1-hour workshop or a 3-hour workshop.

Where is the cooking class held in Marrakech?

The class takes place near Riad-Hotel La Maison Arabe or sometimes by secret gardens away from the medina’s bustle.

Who teaches the Moroccan cooking workshop?

A traditional Moroccan cook called a dada leads the class, assisted by a multilingual translator.

Is lunch included in the Marrakech cooking class?

Yes, you’ll eat what you prepare during the workshop as your lunch or dinner.

Are children allowed in the cooking classes?

No, children under 12 years old are not permitted for safety reasons.

What dish do you learn to make at La Maison Arabe?

The menu includes chicken tagine with preserved lemon and olives.

Are public transportation options nearby?

Yes, public transportation is available close to the venue.

Is wine tasting included in the workshop?

Tasting Moroccan wines is optional during your meal.

What’s included

Your experience includes an introduction by a multilingual guide, Moroccan mint tea ceremony, bread-making demonstration by a dada cook, hands-on preparation of chicken tagine with preserved lemon and olives using fresh local ingredients, food tasting of your creations for lunch or dinner right at your workstation—plus live commentary throughout.