Nous-Nous

Nous-Nous

Morocco

Half coffee, half steamed milk. 'Nous-nous' means 'half-half' in Darija (Moroccan Arabic). It's the default cafe terrace order across Morocco, served in a small glass so you can see the layers. Simpler than it sounds: you sit, you watch the street, the waiter brings it without asking because he remembers your order. Equal parts, nothing more.

Brew Time2–3 minutes (espresso) + steaming
TemperatureServed hot
Ratio1 shot espresso + equal volume steamed milk
GrindFine — espresso grind

How to make it

  1. 1

    Pull a single shot of espresso (or brew very strong coffee).

  2. 2

    Steam milk until hot and slightly frothy — not a latte's worth, just enough for the half-half ratio.

  3. 3

    Pour the espresso into a small glass.

  4. 4

    Add an equal amount of steamed milk — the glass should show two distinct layers initially.

  5. 5

    Serve immediately. No sugar added by default, but sugar is always on the table.