Moroccan clarified butter
Moroccan clarified butter, also known as smen, is a type of clarified butter that is commonly used in Moroccan cuisine. It is made by melting butter and then simmering it with a mixture of herbs, such as thyme and bay leaves, and spices, such as cumin and coriander, for several hours. The mixture is then allowed to cool and solidify, and the butterfat is separated from the solids. The resulting clarified butter has a rich, nutty flavor and a distinct aroma from the herbs and spices used in its preparation. Smen is often used as a flavoring agent in Moroccan dishes such as tagines, couscous, and soups. It has a longer shelf life than regular butter and can be stored at room temperature for several months.