Briouats

Briouats

Moroccan cuisine is well-known for its rich flavors, spicy aromas, and unique combinations of ingredients. One such dish that stands out from the rest is the delicious Moroccan Briouats. These savory pastries are a staple in Moroccan cuisine and are enjoyed by people all over the world.

Briouats are a type of Moroccan pastry that is made with phyllo dough and stuffed with various fillings. The filling can be sweet or savory, and it is all up to the chef’s preference. The most common fillings in Briouats are minced meat, vegetables, cheese, and nuts. The pastry is then fried or baked until it is crispy and golden brown.

Moroccan Briouats have a long history and are considered a traditional dish in Moroccan culture. They are often served during special occasions and family gatherings. Briouats are also common in Moroccan street food, where they are served alongside other tasty snacks like harira, Bessara, and Rghaif.

The importance of Briouats in Moroccan culture is evident in the different variations that exist throughout the country. Each region has its own unique way of making Briouats, which gives them a distinct flavor and texture. In the north of Morocco, for example, Briouats are often filled with fresh cheese and herbs, while in the south, they are more likely to be filled with spiced minced meat and vegetables.

One of the best things about Briouats is their versatility. They can be served as an appetizer, main dish, or even as a dessert. This is because the filling is so customizable. A sweet Briouat could be filled with honey and almonds, while a savory Briouat could be filled with ground beef and spices. The possibilities are endless!

Making Briouats from scratch may seem daunting at first, but it is actually a straightforward process. The key is to have patience and to follow the recipe closely. The dough for Briouats is made with phyllo or Warka dough, which can be found in most Middle Eastern grocery stores. It is essential to keep the dough covered in a damp cloth to prevent it from drying out and becoming brittle.

The filling for Briouats is where the creativity comes in. Some common fillings are ground beef, chicken, or lamb, mixed with spices like cumin, paprika, and chili flakes. Vegetables like potatoes, onions, and peas can also be added for extra flavor and nutrition. The filling should be cooked down until it is thick and flavorful, so it does not ooze out of the pastry during frying or baking.

In the end, Briouats are a delicious and unique dish that can transport you to the heart of Morocco. From the crispy pastry to the flavorful filling, each bite is an explosion of taste and texture. Whether you are a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, Briouats are a must-try recipe that will impress your friends and family.

Ingredients:

1 pound ground beef or lamb

1 onion, finely chopped

2 garlic cloves, minced

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon ground coriander

½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

1 teaspoon paprika

1 tablespoon tomato paste

1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley

1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro

Salt and pepper

12-15 sheets of phyllo dough

1 egg, beaten

Vegetable oil

Instructions:

  1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef or lamb over medium-high heat until browned. Add the onion and garlic and cook until the onion is soft.

  2. Add the cumin, coriander, cinnamon, paprika, tomato paste, parsley, and cilantro. Season with salt and pepper, to taste.

  3. Let the filling cool completely.

  4. Preheat the oven to 375°F.

  5. Lay out one sheet of phyllo dough and brush it with melted butter or oil.

  6. Fold the sheet in half lengthwise.

  7. Place 1-2 tablespoons of filling on one end of the phyllo sheet.

  8. Fold the bottom corner of the phyllo sheet up and over the filling to create a triangle.

  9. Continue to fold the triangle over and over until you reach the end of the phyllo sheet. Brush the end with egg wash to secure the triangle.

  10. Repeat with the remaining phyllo sheets and filling.

  11. Brush the triangles with beaten egg and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.

  12. Let the briouats cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!