Msemmen (Moroccan Flatbread)

A flaky, buttery, and irresistible flatbread that’s perfect with honey, jam, or Moroccan mint tea!

If you’ve ever had the pleasure of tasting Msemmen, you know it’s nothing short of a culinary delight. This traditional Moroccan flatbread has a soft, pillowy interior and a crispy, golden exterior. The magic happens when you fold and layer the dough, creating that beautifully flaky texture. It’s perfect for pairing with honey, soft cheese, or a steaming cup of mint tea. Whether served for breakfast or as a snack, Msemmen is sure to impress.


Why You’ll Love Msemmen:

  • Flaky & buttery: With a crispy outside and soft inside, this flatbread is a texture dream!
  • Perfectly versatile: Enjoy it with sweet honey or tangy jam, or serve it alongside savory dishes.
  • A Moroccan classic: A traditional recipe that brings the flavors and charm of Morocco to your kitchen.

Ingredients:

(Makes about 8 pieces)

For the Dough:

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup fine semolina
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1 tsp baking powder (optional)
  • 1 ¼ cups warm water (adjust as needed)

For Stretching & Cooking:

  • ½ cup vegetable oil
  • ¼ cup melted butter
  • ¼ cup fine semolina

Instructions:

1. Make the Dough:

In a large bowl, combine the flour, semolina, salt, sugar, and baking powder (if using). Gradually add the warm water, a little at a time, mixing as you go. Knead the dough for 10–15 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.

Divide the dough into small balls about the size of a golf ball. Coat each ball lightly with oil and let them rest for 30 minutes.

2. Shape the Msemmen:

Once the dough has rested, it’s time to shape the flatbreads. On a lightly greased surface, take one dough ball and flatten it out into a thin, almost transparent circle using your hands. Be gentle so the dough stays intact.

Brush the flattened dough with a mixture of butter and vegetable oil, then sprinkle with semolina. Now, fold the edges of the dough inward to create a square shape. Repeat the process for each dough ball.

3. Cook the Msemmen:

Heat a pan or griddle over medium heat. Place the folded dough squares onto the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, flipping them frequently until they are golden brown and crispy. Press down lightly with a spatula to ensure even cooking on both sides.

4. Serve & Enjoy:

Once the Msemmen is golden and crispy, remove from the heat and serve warm. You can enjoy it with honey, jam, or even soft cheese for a delicious treat. For the ultimate experience, serve it alongside a cup of Moroccan mint tea.


Tips & Variations:

  • Layering is key: The secret to Msemmen’s flaky texture lies in how you fold the dough. Don’t skip the butter, oil, and semolina between the layers!
  • Customize: For a savory version, you can stuff the Msemmen with herbs, cheese, or minced meat before folding.
  • Make ahead: You can prepare the dough ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to a day, which makes this a perfect recipe for meal prep or hosting guests.

Final Thoughts:

This Msemmen recipe will transport your taste buds to Morocco, offering a beautiful balance of flaky texture and rich, buttery flavor. Perfect for breakfast, snack time, or an impressive addition to your Moroccan-themed meal, this flatbread is a crowd-pleaser. Whether you serve it sweet or savory, it’s guaranteed to become a family favorite!

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