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Moroccan Carrot Raisin Salad Recipe

4.9 from 105 reviews

A refreshing and aromatic Moroccan Carrot Raisin Salad featuring tender carrots cooked with cinnamon, sugar, and lemon juice, combined with sweet golden raisins and fragrant orange flower water. This salad is a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors, ideal as a light side dish or appetizer.

Ingredients

Scale

Carrot Preparation

  • 1 lb large carrots
  • 2-inch Ceylon cinnamon stick
  • 2 tbsp sugar
  • 1/8 tsp kosher salt
  • 4 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • Water, enough to cover carrots

Raisin Mixture

  • 1 cup golden raisins (sultanas)
  • 2 tbsp orange flower water

Instructions

  1. Prepare Carrots: Trim and peel the carrots, then halve them lengthwise. Carefully cut out and discard the hard core from each half. Cut the carrots into 1/4-inch dice. Place the golden raisins in a small bowl to prepare for soaking.
  2. Cook Carrots: In a small saucepan, combine the diced carrots, cinnamon stick, sugar, kosher salt, fresh lemon juice, and just enough water to cover the carrots. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to simmer and cook for about 8 minutes until the carrots are tender.
  3. Drain and Soak Raisins: Drain the cooked carrots using a colander set over the bowl containing the raisins. This allows the hot cooking liquid to warm and soften the raisins as they soak. Let the liquid cool down to room temperature.
  4. Combine Ingredients: Once the liquid has cooled and the raisins are softened, drain any excess liquid from the raisins. Mix the soaked raisins with the cooked carrots and add the orange flower water, stirring gently to incorporate the fragrant flavor.
  5. Chill Salad: Transfer the carrot and raisin mixture into a small bowl or two rounded molds about 2 1/2 to 3 inches in diameter. Cover the container(s) with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to chill thoroughly.
  6. Serve: To serve, remove the salad from the refrigerator. If using molds, invert them onto a serving plate to present the salad attractively. Serve chilled as a light and flavorful side dish.

Notes

  • The cinnamon stick used is Ceylon cinnamon, which has a delicate flavor and aroma.
  • Orange flower water adds a unique floral note but can be omitted or substituted with rose water if unavailable.
  • Ensure carrots are diced uniformly for even cooking.
  • The salad is best chilled overnight to enhance flavor integration.
  • This recipe is naturally gluten free and vegetarian-friendly.
  • Adjust sugar quantity to taste, especially if you prefer a less sweet salad.

Keywords: Moroccan Carrot Salad, Carrot Raisin Salad, Moroccan Side Dish, Carrot Salad with Orange Flower Water, Healthy Moroccan Recipes