Dr. Jeremy R. Doughty, Resident Director in Rabat, Morocco, shares the ritual and tradition of mint tea.
Dive into Moroccan culture: Take advantage of a $500 discount off January 2027 Morocco program fees from now until October 15, 2026.
If you spend even a few hours in Morocco, you’ll notice one thing quickly: mint tea is everywhere. It’s offered to guests, shared at cafés, served after meals, and poured during conversations with friends. More than just a drink, mint tea is a symbol of hospitality and an important part of everyday life.
The ritual of mint tea
Mint tea (often called atay) is closely tied to Moroccan hospitality. When you visit someone’s home or even a shop, you may be offered tea. Sharing tea is a way of welcoming people and slowing down for conversation.
It’s also common for tea to be served with small sweets, such as almond cookies, pastries, or other simple desserts. If you’re offered tea, it’s polite to accept at least one glass. Refusing immediately can sometimes feel impolite since offering tea is a common way of showing kindness and respect to guests.
How mint tea is made
Traditional Moroccan mint tea is made with Chinese gunpowder green tea, fresh mint, and sugar. The tea is brewed in a small metal teapot, often right in front of guests.
The green tea leaves are rinsed with hot water, then fresh mint and sugar are added and the tea is steeped. A small amount of tea is usually poured into a glass and then returned to the teapot to help mix the flavors evenly.
It’s a simple process, but one that’s treated almost like a small ceremony.
The high pour
One of the most recognizable parts of Moroccan tea culture is the way it’s poured. The server often pours the tea from high above the glass, creating a thin stream that aerates the tea and forms a light foam on top. It takes practice and a steady hand, but the high pour helps mix the tea and cool it slightly before drinking.
What to expect
If you’re studying abroad in Rabat with USAC, you’ll quickly become familiar with mint tea. It often appears after meals with your host family, during social visits, or while relaxing in a café.
A few things that might surprise you:
- Mint tea is usually very sweet.
- It’s served in small glasses, not mugs.
- You may be offered multiple glasses in one sitting.
If you prefer less sugar, you can sometimes ask for unsweetened tea or add your own sugar. However, the traditional version is served sweet.
Final sip
In Morocco, mint tea is more than just a drink — it’s a way of welcoming people, sharing conversation, and slowing down for a moment together. By the time your USAC Rabat program ends, you may find that a glass of mint tea feels like a small but memorable part of daily life in Rabat.
Want to learn more about Moroccan food and culture? Check out Dr. Doughty’s day of eating in Rabat.
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