Moroccan party ideas

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The mystery and richness of Morocco can be attributed, in part, to its place between cultures. A hub between the Middle East, Africa and Europe, the country evokes images of warm spices--saffron, turmeric, cinnamon--and deeply decadent color, busy markets and shrill sellers, dust and desert. Morocco has long had the necessary romance and enigma to entrance and transport the mind. Bringing this atmosphere to a party lulls guests into a sense of the mysterious and the lavish.

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1. Menu: Appetizers

   • Start with the food. Moroccan cuisine has enchanted the world with its aromatic spices and meats slow-cooked in a tagine, so bringing the palette of this culture to the table is an essential first step.

     For appetizers, consider shlata chizo (cooked carrot salad) or gezer chai (a raw carrot salad) that originated in Africa and was brought to Israeli cuisine via Morocco. The cooked version calls for chermoula, a dressing of lemon, oil, cumin, garlic and salt. The raw option of the salad is traditionally garnished with mint and avocado.

   Menu: Mains

   • Moroccan mains are warmly spiced, with a great depth of flavor. Think of serving lamb, which can be prepared in a number of ways--in a spicy tomato broth, over chickpeas or in a stew. Mrouzia, the impressive translation of which is "the feast of the slaughter of the lamb," features slow-cooked lamb with honey, almonds and raisins.

     Chicken dishes follow similar preparations, while seafood can be dressed with spicy salsas or olives. For meat-alternatives, you may be relegated to chickpea and couscous dishes.

     A good investment for any chef will be ras-el-hanout ("head of the shop"), an exhaustive blend of Moroccan spices available at specialty markets. Desserts in Moroccan cuisine are not as famed, so additional sides and hors d'oeuvres are good choices.

     For detailed recipes, pick up an ethnic cookbook or visit epicurious.com.

   Drinks

   • Moroccan people are wild about their mint tea, which is served alongside nearly every meal. If the concept of party and tea does not jive with your idea of a celebration, opt for serving Moroccan beer. The three types to look for are Stork, Casablanca and Flag.

     Certainly, it is fine to serve liquor and wine on top of these, particularly if you think your guests would be happier with these choices.

   Setting and Atmosphere

   • Set up low tables draped in rich fabrics. Coffee tables and end table with boards between them can make a convincing substitute under the coverings. The best options in fabric are velvety and substantial, but you can easily find budget substitutes.

     For color, think golds and reds, deep blues and oranges. Keep the lighting low, and add Moroccan lanterns if you can find them Different-colored candles are an easy detail, as are brightly colored drinking glasses. Strive for an opulent feel without going overboard. If you have the resources, tapestries and rugs are also a wonderful addition.

Source: www.ehow.com

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