Moroccan · Snack
Moroccan Desert Trail Mix
Built on the dates, almonds and dried fruit of the Tafilalet oasis around Errachidia, this simple trail mix has long sustained desert travellers and traders, combining natural sweetness and protein into an easy, portable snack.
- Prep
- 10 min
- Cook
- 0 min
- Total
- 10 min
- Serves
- 8
- Level
- Easy
Ingredients
- 150 g pitted dates, roughly chopped
- 100 g almonds, toasted
- 80 g walnuts, toasted
- 80 g dried apricots, chopped
- 60 g raisins
- 2 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
- A pinch of ground cinnamon
Method
- 1
Toast the nuts
Toast the almonds and walnuts in a dry pan over medium heat for a few minutes, shaking often, until fragrant. Cool completely.
- 2
Combine
Mix the chopped dates, toasted nuts, dried apricots, raisins and sesame seeds together in a large bowl.
- 3
Season
Dust lightly with the ground cinnamon and toss to distribute evenly.
- 4
Store
Transfer to an airtight container or individual portions for easy carrying.
Chef's tips
- Let the nuts cool fully before mixing with the dried fruit, or residual heat can make the dates and apricots sticky and clump together.
- Chop the dates fairly small so the mix distributes evenly in each handful.
- This mix keeps well for weeks in a sealed container, making it genuinely practical for travel or long days.
Frequently asked questions
Why are these particular ingredients used?
Dates, almonds and dried fruit are all traditionally grown or traded through the Tafilalet oasis region, making them the natural basis for a portable, energy-dense snack used historically by desert travellers and caravans.
Can other nuts or dried fruit be added?
Yes, pistachios, dried figs or a few cacao nibs are welcome additions if you want to vary the mix.