Moroccan starters are presented as an accompaniment to the main dishes. They vary from one region to another but generally consist of a Moroccan salad of either raw or cooked vegetables, Briouates stuffed with chicken or minced meat, a ratatouille of peppers and tomatoes – the so-called Tektouta – and the famous Zaâlouk which is an eggplant puree. Each recipe has a special seasoning and brings out its own flavor and color.