Maakouda

Maakouda: Moroccan Potato Fritters (A Step-by-Step Guide)

Maakouda are a beloved staple in Moroccan cuisine, often found in street food stalls, served as appetizers, or as a side dish. These crispy-on-the-outside, fluffy-on-the-inside potato fritters are incredibly versatile and packed with flavor. If you've ever wanted to bring a taste of Morocco into your kitchen, this is the perfect recipe to try!

Follow this step-by-step guide, complete with images, to master the art of making authentic Moroccan Maakouda.

What You'll Need: Ingredients

Before we begin, gather your ingredients. Most of these are likely already in your pantry!

• Potatoes: About 4-5 medium-sized potatoes (floury varieties work best, like Russet or Yukon Gold)

• Garlic: 2-3 cloves, minced

• Fresh Parsley: A small handful, finely chopped

• Spices:

  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin

  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika (sweet or smoked, your preference)

  • 1/4 teaspoon turmeric (for color and flavor)

  • Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)

  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

• Egg: 1 large egg, lightly beaten

• Flour: All-purpose flour for dusting

• Oil: Vegetable oil or sunflower oil for deep frying

For the Batter (Optional, but recommended for extra crispiness):

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour

• 1/2 cup water (or a little more/less to achieve a pancake-like consistency)

• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

• Pinch of salt

Step 1: Boil the Potatoes

First things first, let's get those potatoes ready. Peel your potatoes and cut them into large, even chunks. Place them in a large pot, cover with cold water, and add a generous pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the potatoes are fork-tender. This usually takes about 15-20 minutes.

Step 2: Mash the Potatoes

Once cooked, drain the potatoes thoroughly. It's crucial to remove as much moisture as possible, as this will prevent your maakouda from becoming soggy. Return the drained potatoes to the hot pot over low heat for a minute or two, stirring occasionally to help evaporate any remaining water. Then, mash them until smooth. You can use a potato masher, a fork, or even a ricer for the smoothest results.

Step 3: Season the Mash

Now for the flavor! Add the minced garlic, chopped fresh parsley, cumin, paprika, turmeric, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper to the mashed potatoes. Mix everything together thoroughly until the spices are evenly distributed. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Let the mixture cool down slightly.