chicken pastilla is a Moroccan delicacy, a masterpiece of layered pastry, spiced meat, and sweet almonds. Today, we’re going to elevate this classic, infusing it with flavors from the Far East. The result? A harmonious blend of cultures, a dish that’s both familiar and exotic.
Ingredients:
For the Pastry:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/2 cup water
For the Filling:
1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
1 large onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon turmeric
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup olive oil
1 cup blanched almonds, slivered
1/4 cup golden raisins
1/4 cup chopped cilantro
1/4 cup chopped parsley
For the Egg Wash:
1 large egg, beaten
1 tablespoon water
Preparation Process:
Total Time: 3-4 hours
1. Prepare the Pastry:
In a large bowl, combine flour and salt.
Gradually add melted butter and water, mixing until a dough forms.
Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it rest for at least 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Filling:
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Add onion and garlic, sauté until softened.
Add chicken pieces, spices, and cook until browned.
Add almonds, raisins, cilantro, and parsley.
Simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Assemble the Pastilla:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Roll out the dough into thin sheets.
Line a round baking dish with a layer of pastry.
Add a layer of filling.
Repeat the process, layering pastry and filling until the dish is full.
Brush the top layer with egg wash.
Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Serving Ideas:
Serve the pastilla warm or at room temperature. Garnish with powdered sugar, chopped almonds, or fresh herbs. Pair it with a refreshing mint tea or a glass of dry white wine.
Cultural Fusion
This recipe is a beautiful fusion of Moroccan and Middle Eastern flavors. The rich, spiced filling is reminiscent of traditional Moroccan tagines, while the delicate pastry layers are a nod to the intricate pastries of the Middle East. The addition of golden raisins and slivered almonds adds a touch of sweetness and crunch, elevating the dish to new heights.
The Golden Silk of the East is more than just a dish; it’s a journey through time and culture. A testament to the power of culinary creativity, it invites us to explore the world, one bite at a time.
