Babbouch The Beloved Moroccan Snails Soup

As the sun sets over the bustling streets of old Medinas in Morocco, the air fills with the mouth-watering aroma of Ghoulal, a savory snail soup that has become a staple of the country’s vibrant street food scene. Any tourist who has visited Morocco, may have came across Babbouch the beloved Moroccan snails soup. Whether you’re in the historic squares of Marrakech or wandering through the labyrinthine souks, the sight of a snail vendor’s cart is a common and comforting presence.

A Culinary Tradition

In Morocco, Algeria, and Tunisia, snails are more than just a delicacy; they are a beloved part of the cultural fabric. The vendors, often found in the city’s well-known squares and at the entrances and exits of the bustling souks, set up their makeshift kitchens after 6 PM. Each vendor’s cart, resembling a table on wheels, is equipped with a propane tank burner, a large pot simmering with snails, and an array of bowls and lemons. The lemons are pinned with safety pins, ready for diners to use in extracting the tender meat from the shells.

Memories and Traditions

For many Moroccans, the sight and smell of Babbouch or Ghoulal bring back cherished childhood memories. The tradition of enjoying Ghoulal has persisted through the years, remaining a favorite treat for both locals and tourists alike.

The streets of Marrakech truly come alive at dusk, with the rich, spicy scent of Ghoulal drawing people in from all directions. Moroccan snails, known locally as babbouche or ghlal, are prepared in a spiced broth that often includes a blend of over 15 different seasonings. The recipes are as varied as the vendors themselves, featuring ingredients like licorice root, lavender, tea leaves, and thyme. The snails are cooked to perfection, then served in small bowls with their flavorful broth.

Not only is Ghoulal a delicious treat, but it is also reputed to have various health benefits. The broth is believed to alleviate rheumatism and colds, making it a popular choice during the cooler months. Diners use toothpicks to skillfully extract the snails from their beautifully patterned shells, savoring each bite and the rich, warming broth.

Global Perspectives

While snails may be a quintessential Moroccan street food, their culinary appeal is truly global. In France, escargot is a gourmet delicacy served in elegant restaurants. In Vietnam, snails are enjoyed in casual, beer garden-like settings known as quán ốc. Despite the diverse ways in which snails are prepared and enjoyed around the world, the essence of this simple yet satisfying dish remains the same.

In Morocco, the tradition of snail soup is deeply embedded in the local culture, providing a warm, flavorful experience that connects people across generations. As the evening progresses and the vendors call out to potential customers, the streets become a lively tapestry of aromas, flavors, and shared moments over bowls of steaming Ghoulal.