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The Best Tea & Teapots for Authentic Moroccan Mint (Atay)

Crucial Equipment Note

You cannot make authentic Atay in a ceramic teapot. You need a Barrad (a metal teapot that can go directly on the stove). The tea must be boiled with the sugar and mint to caramelize the flavors. Do not use a kettle.

Making Moroccan Mint Tea is not about subtlety; it is about boldness. The combination of bitter Gunpowder green tea, pungent fresh mint, and intense sugar requires ingredients that can stand up to the process. Delicate Japanese greens will not work here.

We have sourced the best authentic brands used in the Maghreb, along with the essential metal teapots and glasses needed to perform the traditional "high pour" ceremony.

A silver Moroccan teapot, tea glasses, and fresh mint on a brass tray.
Best Overall (Authentic)
Sultan Tea Jawhar Gunpowder

1. Sultan Tea (Jawhar Blend)

★★★★★ (The Moroccan Choice)

Sultan is the Lipton of Morocco—ubiquitous and trusted. The Jawhar blend ("Jewel") is their premium Gunpowder green tea. The pellets are tightly rolled and pearly, indicating freshness. It brews a clear, amber liquor with the requisite smokiness to balance the mint.

Pros:
  • Authentic Moroccan brand
  • Tightly rolled leaves
  • Great balance of smoke/bitterness
Cons:
  • Packaging sometimes varies
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Best Bulk Export
TWG Moroccan Mint

2. TWG Moroccan Mint

★★★★☆ (The Global Standard)

This distinct brand is found in Asian and Middle Eastern markets worldwide. It is the classic Chinese export grade used across North Africa. It is stronger and more astringent than Sultan, making it perfect if you like your tea to really "bite" back against the sugar.

Pros:
  • Extremely affordable
  • Very strong flavor
  • Widely available
Cons:
  • Can be dusty (rinse well)
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Best Dried Mint
Mina Moroccan Nana Mint

3. Mina Moroccan Nana Mint

★★★★☆ (When Fresh Isn't Available)

Nothing beats fresh mint, but if you live in a cold climate, this is the next best thing. Mina sources actual "Nana" mint (Spearmint) from Morocco and dries it carefully. Unlike generic peppermint tea bags, this retains the sweet, herbal aroma required for Atay.

Pros:
  • Real Moroccan "Nana" species
  • No artificial flavorings
  • Convenient pantry staple
Cons:
  • Not as vibrant as fresh leaves
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Best Teapot (Barrad)
Silver Plated Moroccan Teapot

4. Handcrafted Brass/Silver Teapot

★★★★★ (Essential Gear)

This is a "Barrad." It has a built-in filter at the base of the spout (to catch the mint leaves) and a long, curved spout designed for the high pour. It is made of metal so it can be placed directly on the stove burner to simmer the tea.

Pros:
  • Stovetop safe (Crucial)
  • Built-in leaf filter
  • Beautiful craftsmanship
Cons:
  • Handle gets hot (use a cloth)
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