Mauritanian Chicken Pastilla With Cinnamon And Almonds

Mauritanian Chicken Pastilla with Cinnamon and Almonds is a traditional Mauritanian dish that combines savory and sweet flavors in a delicious pastry. This recipe is perfect for special occasions and gatherings, and it's sure to impress your guests with its unique blend of spices and textures.

Mauritanian Chicken Pastilla With Cinnamon And Almonds

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs chicken, cooked and shredded
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp ground ginger
  • 1/4 tsp ground turmeric
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 1/2 cup blanched almonds, chopped
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 12 sheets phyllo dough
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, onion, garlic, cinnamon, ginger, turmeric, cilantro, parsley, almonds, and 1/4 cup powdered sugar. Mix well.
  2. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  3. Place one sheet of phyllo dough on a clean work surface and brush it lightly with melted butter. Repeat with 5 more sheets of phyllo, layering each sheet on top of the other.
  4. Spoon the chicken mixture onto the layered phyllo dough, then fold the edges over the filling to encase it completely.
  5. Repeat the layering process with the remaining 6 sheets of phyllo dough, brushing each sheet with melted butter.
  6. Place the second layer of phyllo over the filled pastry, tucking in the edges to seal the filling inside.
  7. Brush the top of the pastry with more melted butter and sprinkle with powdered sugar.
  8. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and crispy.
  9. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before dusting with more powdered sugar.
  10. Serve the Mauritanian Chicken Pastilla warm, cut into slices, and enjoy!

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
30 minutes
Cooking time:
1 hour
Total time:
1 hour
Cooking method
Stovetop

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
350 per serving
Protein
25g
Carbohydrates
20g
Fat
18g

Supplies

Baking sheet Pastry brush Sharp knife

Tools

Oven Cooking brush

Serving suggestions

Serving suggestions: Serve the Mauritanian Chicken Pastilla with a side of mixed greens and a drizzle of honey for a delightful contrast of flavors.

Tips & tricks

Tips: Be gentle when handling the phyllo dough to prevent tearing, and make sure to brush each layer with butter for a crispy and flaky pastry.

Cost

$20