The cuisine of Morocco is a diverse as its people.  Having been influenced by people from so many regions, among them, Spain, Portugal, Africa and the Middle East, it is no surprise that the food is both varied and eclectic. Moroccan cuisine utilizes many distinctive spices, such as saffron.  Many of Morocco’s home grown ingredients have made their way into the native dishes, among these are olives, mint, oranges and lemons.  The most common meats found in these dishes include chicken and beef.  Although lamb is a specialty, it is more of a delicacy due to the high cost of using it in cooking.