The battle lines are drawn as the FIFA World Cup approaches its last leg. With the Semi-Finals set to begin tomorrow, of the 4 teams which would be on view, one of the them is making a Semi-Final appearance for the very first time. The North African Atlas Lions, Morocco. A country of 40 million people and an important member of the Afro-Arab community, is keeping its fingers crossed. The other 3 teams are the regulars, France, Argentina and Croatia.
The Quarter Final victory over Portugal has raised ambitions as the Moroccans take on France on Wednesday night. The Atlas Lions ( nicknamed so because of the Atlas Mountain Range found in Morocco ) have not conceded a goal yet and considering how open this World Cup is, an upset cannot be ruled out, though the odds are heavily in favour of the defending Champions
The outcome of the Semi Final notwithstanding, Africa and the Arabs are celebrating and particularly in Morocco it is festival time akin to Eid. Marakesh (featured image) is buzzing and so is Rabat and Laasida and Tajine are the most favoured delicacies on festive occasions. Leaving football aside for a moment, let’s find out what are these African delicacies and why are they so popular.
Laasida
The Delicious Laasida
A sweet dish, a simple rice pudding, is a revered dish and extremely famous in Morocco and neighbouring Algeria, particularly in the Holy month of Ramadan. The rice pudding is not as innocuous as it seems and is served with couscous ( granules made from a type of wheat called durum found in arid regions ), a big chunk of butter, honey, some grated spiced seasonings and of course with lots of fruits. It is not only a delightfully tasty dish, but also has a healthy twist to it and it has to be said that the conquests of the Moroccan Team have become a perfect occasion for a good helping of Laasida.
Tajine
The Delectable Tajine
The Moroccans start the day with the Laasida and end with a perfect foil in the Tajine. One of the most appreciated dishes in Northern Africa, the Tajine is always a part of any celebration. It is a stew cooked in earthen ports with meat for long durations. The meat simmers in the low heat with an array of spices, veggies, fruits and apricots. The well blended dish has an amazing aroma and an exceptional taste to go with it.
As the Atlas Lions gear up for another battle, the celebrations are on in Morocco and it is certain that they will continue much beyond the closure of the World Cup in Qatar. It is indeed a Laasida and Tajine time in Morocco.
Read QUICK, Read BETTER @ rizkhan.in
