Why Make This Recipe
Moroccan Pie, often known as Pastilla, is a delightful dish that brings together flavors and textures in a unique way. The mixture of tender chicken, crunchy almonds, and warm spices makes it a standout on any dinner table. Plus, the crispy phyllo dough adds a satisfying crunch that complements the filling perfectly. If you enjoy exploring international cuisines, you might also want to check out Moroccan Chicken Flatbreads for another delicious treat.
How to Make Moroccan Pie
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken
- 1 cup almonds, blanched and chopped
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 sheets of phyllo dough
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons honey
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the chicken in a pot with water, onion, cinnamon, ginger, cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper until tender.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken and let it cool. Shred the meat and mix it with chopped almonds, honey, and some of the cooking liquid.
- Lay one sheet of phyllo dough in a round baking dish, brushing it with melted butter. Layer 2-3 more sheets, each brushed with butter.
- Place the chicken mixture in the center. Fold the dough over the filling to create a parcel and brush the top with more butter.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
- Before serving, dust with powdered sugar and garnish with fresh herbs. Enjoy!
How to Serve Moroccan Pie
Moroccan Pie can be served warm as a main dish. You might pair it with a light salad or some yogurt on the side. It is also a great dish for festive occasions and gatherings, where its unique flavors will impress your guests.
How to Store Moroccan Pie
If you have leftovers, store the pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for about 2-3 days. To reheat, warm it in the oven for the best texture, ensuring it stays crispy.
Tips to Make Moroccan Pie
- Ensure to brush each layer of phyllo dough with butter for a rich flavor and flaky texture.
- You can adjust the spices according to your taste. If you like it spicier, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- For a more nutty flavor, toast the chopped almonds before mixing them into the filling.
Variation
If you prefer vegetarian options, you can replace the chicken with spiced roasted vegetables or lentils. This creates a delicious and hearty meal that still captures the essence of Moroccan flavors.
FAQs
Can I freeze Moroccan Pie?
Yes, you can freeze the pie before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to bake, simply remove it from the freezer, let it thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake as directed.
What can I use instead of almonds?
If you’re allergic to almonds, you can substitute them with chopped walnuts or pistachios. They will give a different but still delightful crunch to the filling.
Is Moroccan Pie spicy?
The traditional recipe is not overly spicy, but it does include warm spices that provide depth. You can adjust the amount of spices to make it milder or spicier according to your preference.
Conclusion
Moroccan Pie is a flavorful dish that showcases a wonderful blend of spices and textures. If you’re looking for more creative Mediterranean recipes, check out this best Pastilla recipe for a skillet chicken pie that will surely delight your taste buds.
Print
Moroccan Pie
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A delightful Moroccan dish featuring tender chicken, crunchy almonds, and warm spices wrapped in crispy phyllo dough.
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken
- 1 cup almonds, blanched and chopped
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 sheets of phyllo dough
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons honey
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the chicken in a pot with water, onion, cinnamon, ginger, cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper until tender.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken and let it cool. Shred the meat and mix it with chopped almonds, honey, and some of the cooking liquid.
- Lay one sheet of phyllo dough in a round baking dish, brushing it with melted butter. Layer 2-3 more sheets, each brushed with butter.
- Place the chicken mixture in the center. Fold the dough over the filling to create a parcel and brush the top with more butter.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
- Before serving, dust with powdered sugar and garnish with fresh herbs. Enjoy!
Notes
Brush each layer of phyllo dough with butter for a rich flavor and flaky texture. Adjust spices to taste; add cayenne for heat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Moroccan
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 60mg