What is Amlou? Origins and Tradition of the Moroccan Spread
Amlou is an emblematic Moroccan specialty, particularly associated with southern Morocco and the Souss region. Halfway between a spread and a traditional preparation, it is appreciated for its creamy texture, almond flavor, and the rich aromatic quality of culinary argan oil.
Long prepared in Moroccan homes and served for breakfast or tea time, Amlou is now introducing a new way to enjoy nuts far beyond Morocco. But what exactly is Amlou, where does it come from, and what distinguishes the traditional recipe?
What is Amlou?
Amlou is a traditional Moroccan preparation whose most famous recipe combines three ingredients: almonds, culinary argan oil, and honey. The almonds are roasted then finely ground to achieve a generous texture, before being mixed with argan oil and honey.
The result is a naturally gourmet paste, without the need for multiple ingredients. Depending on the recipes, proportions, and fineness of grinding, Amlou can be more fluid or denser, sweeter or more intense.
What is the origin of Amlou?
Amlou is deeply connected to the culinary heritage of southwestern Morocco, particularly the Souss region. This region is also closely associated with the argan tree, an emblematic Moroccan tree whose fruits produce argan oil.
Traditionally, Amlou is a food for sharing. It is served at the table in a bowl or small dish and enjoyed with Moroccan bread. Its presence at breakfast, snack time, or during social gatherings makes it much more than just a spread: it belongs to a true culture of hospitality and sharing.
What are the ingredients of traditional Amlou?
The traditional recipe relies on a short list of ingredients. At Amlou & Joy, our Traditional Almond Amlou consists of 65% almonds, 20% argan oil, and 15% orange blossom honey.
Almonds
They form the base of Amlou. Roasting develops their aromas, and grinding gives the preparation its characteristic texture.
Culinary argan oil
Not to be confused with cosmetic argan oil, culinary argan oil has a particularly recognizable aromatic profile. It gives Amlou its fluidity and an essential part of its taste identity.
Orange blossom honey
It provides balanced sweetness and a delicate aromatic note. In traditional Amlou, honey complements the taste of almond and argan without the need for artificial flavors.
Why is it called "Moroccan spread"?
The expression "Moroccan spread" simply explains Amlou to those who are not yet familiar with it. Its texture and uses indeed resemble those of a spread, but its identity is profoundly Moroccan, and its traditional composition is very different from classic industrial spreads.
Amlou is particularly distinguished by the central role of almonds and culinary argan oil. It is therefore not a recent adaptation of a Western product, but a specialty rooted in Moroccan culinary tradition.
How to enjoy Amlou?
The most traditional way is to enjoy it with Moroccan bread, msemen, or baghrir. But Amlou also lends itself very well to more contemporary uses: on toast, crepes, or pancakes, with fruits, in porridge, or simply by the spoon for the most gourmet.
Before serving, it may be useful to lightly stir the jar. As with many natural nut-based preparations, oil separation may occur over time. This phenomenon is natural and does not alter the product.
Amlou today: an evolving tradition
The recipe with almonds, argan oil, and honey remains the traditional reference, but Amlou exists today in different interpretations. Some recipes are made without honey, others incorporate cocoa or use other nuts and seeds.
At Amlou & Joy, we have chosen to combine this tradition with several recipes: Traditional Amlou, but also Light Amlou, Chocolate Amlou, and Peanut Amlou. The objective remains the same: to offer simple and gourmet recipes, inspired by Morocco and without additives or preservatives.
Discover Amlou with Amlou & Joy
Amlou & Joy was born from the desire to introduce this Moroccan specialty in France while preserving what defines its identity: simple ingredients, a generous texture, and an authentic taste.
Whether you are discovering Amlou for the first time or it reminds you of breakfasts and tables in Morocco, our range allows you to explore several ways to enjoy it.
Discover our collection of Moroccan Amlou and find the recipe that suits you.