Tektouka is one of Morocco’s most popular salads. It is simple to prepare but packed with flavor. The traditional recipe is made mainly with roasted peppers and tomatoes, combined with garlic, cumin, paprika, fresh coriander and olive oil.

Like many Moroccan recipes, every family has its own way of making tektouka. The real secret is to cook it slowly, allowing the vegetables and spices to blend together and create a rich, authentic flavor.

🛒 Ingredients

• 4 green or red bell peppers
• 4 large ripe tomatoes
• 2 garlic cloves
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
• A little black pepper
• A handful of fresh coriander
• 1 hot pepper, optional 🌶️

👨‍🍳 Preparation

Start by roasting the peppers until their skins are well charred on all sides. Place them in a covered container for a few minutes. This will make the skins easier to remove.

Peel the peppers and remove the seeds, then cut them into small pieces. Do not mash them completely — a good tektouka should keep some texture.

Peel the tomatoes and remove the seeds if desired, then cut them into small pieces.

Heat the olive oil in a large pan and add the crushed garlic. Add the tomatoes and cook over low heat until most of their water has evaporated and they become a thick sauce.

Add the cumin, paprika, salt and black pepper. Then add the roasted peppers and fresh coriander.

Let everything simmer gently for about 10 to 15 minutes, stirring from time to time. The vegetables should become tender and the flavors should concentrate.

Tektouka can be served warm or cold, usually with fresh Moroccan bread. 🇲🇦🥖

❤️ The secret to a great tektouka

The secret is patience. Let the tomatoes slowly reduce and make sure the peppers are properly roasted.

With just a few simple ingredients — fresh vegetables, olive oil, garlic and cumin — you can create a dish that is full of flavor and deeply rooted in Moroccan cuisine.

Besseha wa raha — enjoy your meal! 🇲🇦