Last week we went on a day trip to Cap Spartel, where the Atlantic Ocean
meets the Mediterranean Sea, and to Asilah, a small town right on the
coast.
This part of Morocco is known for having incredible seafood, so I decided to make an exception and try some for lunch. We passed up the Tunny-fish omelet, and at the suggestion of our driver, who is from Tangier, ordered grilled shrimp, calamari, and swordfish.
I have harbored a deep and total fear of shrimp for a long time. They smell funny, they look weird, they probably feel weird too. And these arrived at the table with heads, shells, and legs. AHH!!
But, I believe in seeking out new and slightly scary experiences, so I picked one up. I watched as my friend pulled off the head and split the shell open to reveal a morsel of pure white meat. I did the same, and popped it into my mouth before I could change my mind.
Ohhhh, my god. Seasoned with just a little salt, lemon,
and garlic, the flavor of the fresh shrimp came through. It was not at
all fishy, just rich, firm, and almost sweet.
The calamari was delicious, of course, being mostly fried batter. The squid was mild and pleasantly chewy, not tough.
After lunch we walked through the old walled part of the city. Right on the ocean was this tiny mosque, sitting next to a cemetery.
Each grave was decorated with a rectangle of beautiful colored tiles.
One of my favorite things about Morocco are the varied styles and colors of the doors and houses. Each step along the winding streets is unique.
After wandering around the town, we had just enough time to sample some pastries before driving back to Tangier.
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