Mauritania

The vast majority of Mauritania is desert, which is a factor in the country's rather limited cuisine. Couscous, rice, millet and sweet potatoes are the most common elements of the desert diet. Fish and meat such as mutton, camel and chicken are also featured in traditional dishes. Dried meat is typically paired with couscous, while spiced meat is served with vegetables. The country's history as a French territory comes through in many aspects of the cuisine. French bread is widely available, often dipped in maffé, a Senegalese peanut-based stew. Mechoui (pit-roasted lamb) is a North African specialty that is frequently prepared in Mauritania.  

Because of the dry land, fruit is generally expensive. Dates, however, are popular and consumed regularly as a snack or dessert. Sweet green tea with mint and juice extracted from hibiscus flowers are two favorite beverages in Mauritania. With meals, it is customary to drink zwig—curdled goat or camel milk.—Alexandra Menglide

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