🇲🇦 Moroccan Cuisine · Drinks

Bissap

Prep

5 mins

Cook

15 mins

Serves

6

Difficulty

Easy

A deep crimson herbal drink brewed from dried hibiscus flowers, sweetened and chilled over ice.

Ingredients

  • 600g chickpeas
  • 1 cup couscous
  • a handful of sliced shallots
  • 1/2 tsp sweet paprika
  • 1/4 cup smen (preserved butter)
  • 2 ripe tomatoes, chopped
  • a handful of fresh parsley, chopped
  • a generous spoonful of honey
  • 500ml vegetable stock
  • 1 tsp harissa paste

Instructions

  1. 1

    Combine the flatbread and chicken stock in a saucepan, blender, or pitcher, stirring well.

  2. 2

    Add the ground cinnamon and orange blossom water, stirring gently so their flavor infuses the mixture.

  3. 3

    Heat gently over low heat (or blend, or steep, depending on the drink) until well combined and fragrant, about 15 mins.

  4. 4

    Strain through a fine sieve to remove any solids, if needed.

  5. 5

    Sweeten to taste with preserved lemon, adjusting gradually until the balance feels right.

  6. 6

    Chill in the refrigerator, or pour straight over ice, depending on whether it is served cold or hot.

  7. 7

    Garnish with cilantro just before serving.

  8. 8

    Pour into your favorite glass or cup and enjoy.

Tips

Make a big batch and keep it chilled in the fridge — the flavor often deepens after a few hours.

Serve in a chilled glass for the most refreshing result on a hot day.

Adjust the sweetness gradually, tasting as you go — you can always add more preserved lemon, but you cannot take it away.