Argan oil, green gold of Morocco

April 24, 2012 ,

Argan oil is extracted from the fruit of the argan tree that grows only in southwestern Morocco. For many generations, Berber women have picked these precious fruits, peeled them and crushed the nut to remove the kernel, which is the source of the oil.

There are two types of argan oil:

  • A darker and nutty-flavoured cooking oil, which is extracted from the roasted kernels. It is rich in good fatty acids and vitamin E. It is used raw, especially for flavouring dishes or in salads because it does not tolerate high temperatures;
  • A lighter-coloured cosmetic oil, used for regenerating skin, strengthening hair and for protection against sun and wind.

Of late, this oil has become so fashionable in the West that demand has made the prices skyrocket and increased the number of fakes. In Canada, you can expect to pay $30 for a 200ml bottle of “real” cooking oil.

This oil is a key ingredient of “amlou”, a typical Moroccan almond butter, that can be easily prepared at home. It is delicious spread on toast, pancakes, waffles or whatever you fancy.

Moroccan Almond Spread

Moroccan Almond Spread argan

Moroccan Almond Spread

 

Author

Cinzia Cuneo
Cinzia Cuneo, founder of SOSCuisine.com, never wanted to neglect the quality of her food. She shares her special expertise to make good food quickly and without complications!

2 comments to “Argan oil, green gold of Morocco”

May 2, 2012 jacksonsims said:

Argan oil is produced from the fruit of the argan shrub that develops only in north western Morocco,that is source of oil. They are two types of oil: 1.A darker and nutty-flavoured cooking oil 2.A lighter-coloured cosmetic oil.

August 20, 2014 argan oil said:

Despite the high price of argan oil due to its rarity, argan oil production also
helps empower women in Morocco, especially the Berber women. In a few ways, it works like some other hair oils, but it gives you
distinct advantages which make it a lot better than the
other essential oils. If you have not tried utilizing this
oil yet, try it and see for oneself.

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