Amlou: Traditional Moroccan Almond and Argan Oil Spread Recipe

Ingredients

  • 250g of almonds
  • 3 tablespoons of honey
  • 200ml of argan oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon of salt

Steps and instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
  2. Spread the almonds out on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for about 10 minutes, or until golden brown. Keep a close eye on them to avoid burning.
  3. Allow the almonds to cool, then place them in a food processor.
  4. Process the almonds until they become a smooth paste. This can take up to 10 minutes.
  5. Add the honey, argan oil, and salt to the almond paste in the food processor.
  6. Blend again until all the ingredients are well combined and the texture is smooth.
  7. Transfer the Amlou to a jar and let it sit for a few hours before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld together.

Tools for making

  • Baking sheet - Used to toast the almonds in the oven.
  • Food processor - Used to process the almonds into a smooth paste and blend the ingredients together.
  • Jar - Used to store the Amlou after it is prepared.

Recipe variations

  • Adding a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom for a hint of spice.
  • Using maple syrup or agave syrup instead of honey for a vegan alternative.
  • Replacing almonds with other nuts such as walnuts, pistachios, or cashews.
  • Experimenting with different oils such as olive oil or coconut oil instead of argan oil.
  • Incorporating dried fruits like dates, figs, or raisins for added sweetness.
  • Adding a dash of vanilla extract for extra flavor.
  • Sprinkling shredded coconut or cocoa powder on top for a different texture.
  • Including a tablespoon of nut butter, such as almond or peanut butter, for a creamier consistency.
  • Using a combination of nuts and seeds to create a unique flavor profile.
  • Adding a splash of orange blossom water or rose water for a floral twist.

Recipe overview

Amlou, a delicious and nutritious Moroccan spread, is often referred to as 'Moroccan Nutella'. The core ingredients - almonds, honey, and argan oil - come together to create a unique, sweet, and nutty spread that's perfect on bread, crepes, or even used as a dip for fruit. This recipe guides you through the steps to create your very own homemade Amlou. It's a simple process involving toasting almonds, blending them into a paste, and then combining this with honey, argan oil, and a touch of salt. The result is a heavenly, rich spread that you'll want to incorporate into every breakfast and snack time.

Common questions

  1. Can I use a different type of nut instead of almonds? Yes, you can substitute almonds with other nuts like peanuts, cashews, or hazelnuts if desired.
  2. Is it okay to use regular vegetable oil instead of argan oil? While argan oil is traditional in Amlou, you can use another mild-tasting oil like almond oil or even olive oil as a substitute.
  3. Can I adjust the amount of honey to make it sweeter or less sweet? Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the amount of honey according to your taste preferences. Add more for a sweeter flavor or reduce it for a less sweet version.
  4. How long can I store Amlou? You can store Amlou in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Be sure to give it a stir before serving, as it may separate slightly during storage.
  5. What are some serving suggestions for Amlou? Amlou is delicious when spread on toast, pancakes, or waffles. It can also be used as a dip for fruits or drizzled over ice cream. Get creative and enjoy it in your favorite ways!

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Food processor - Needed to grind the almonds into a smooth paste.
  • Baking sheet - Used to toast the almonds in the oven.
  • Jar - Used for storing the Amlou after it is prepared.
  • Spatula - Helpful for scraping down the sides of the food processor and transferring the Amlou to the jar.

Origin stories

Amlou, often called the 'Moroccan Nutella', is a traditional Berber recipe from Morocco. The Berbers are the indigenous people of North Africa, and their legacy in Moroccan culture is immense, particularly in the realms of cuisine. Amlou is a prime example of the Berber knack for utilizing local produce, crafted with just three simple ingredients: almonds, honey, and the liquid gold of Morocco — argan oil. Argan oil is an exquisite and rare oil, derived from the Argan tree, which only grows in Morocco. Its unique, nutty flavor and numerous health properties have won it admirers globally. Amlou, with its rich, sweet, and nutty flavors, encapsulates the essence of Morocco in every spoonful and is a testament to the culinary genius of the Berber people.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.