Amlou, or amlu, is a spreadable cream made from almonds, honey, and argan oil, originating from the Amazigh region of Souss in southern Morocco, often served at breakfast or during afternoon tea, accompanied by traditional bread like msemmen, baghrir or harcha (as shown in the photo).
The almonds are toasted, then crushed and mixed with honey and argan oil.
Argan oil used is known as “liquid gold” for its nutritional properties and distinctive flavor, an endemic plant of Morocco, and almond trees also represent a significant component of local people’s income.
In the cuisine of the Berber subgroup Shilha, argan oil serves the role typically occupied by olive oil in other parts of the Maghreb.
Traditionally, preparing Amlou was a community activity, often carried out by women in local cooperatives.
- Difficulty: Very Easy
- Cost: Medium
- Preparation time: 15 Minutes
- Portions: 8 People
- Cooking methods: No Cooking
- Cuisine: Moroccan
- Seasonality: All Seasons
Ingredients
- 9 oz almonds (preferably with skin, toasted and unsalted)
- 6 tbsp edible argan oil
- 4 tbsp honey
Steps
Spread the almonds on a baking sheet and toast them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10–15 minutes, until they become golden and aromatic. Let cool.
Traditionally, almonds were ground by hand with a stone grinder. Alternatively, you can use a food processor: blend the toasted almonds until you get a smooth, oily paste.
Gradually add the argan oil to the almond paste, stirring continuously until a creamy and homogeneous consistency is reached.
Add the honey and mix well. Adjust the amount based on the desired sweetness.
If you prefer a more fluid consistency, add a little more argan oil. For a thicker consistency, reduce the oil.
FAQ (Questions and Answers)
What if I can’t find argan oil?
You can purchase argan oil online or substitute it with soybean or sunflower oil.
What is argan oil?
Argan oil is a vegetable oil extracted from the seeds of the argan tree (Argania spinosa), which grows mainly in southwestern Morocco.
There are two main types of argan oil:
Edible argan oil: obtained from roasted seeds, it has a golden color, a nutty flavor, and is used in traditional Moroccan cooking, for example, to dress salads, couscous, or prepare amlou.
Cosmetic argan oil: obtained from unroasted seeds, it is used for skin and hair care due to its moisturizing, antioxidant, and regenerating properties.
Argan oil is rich in essential fatty acids, vitamin E, and antioxidants. If using it in cooking, ensure it is specifically labeled as “edible.”
