M'semen - Moroccan Flaky Pancakes

Recipe

M'semen - Moroccan Flaky Pancakes

Savory Moroccan Delight: M'semen - Flaky Pancakes with a Twist

4.8 out of 5

Indulge in the flavors of Moroccan cuisine with M'semen, a traditional dish that combines the richness of pancakes with a unique flaky texture. This recipe takes you on a culinary journey through the vibrant streets of Morocco, where M'semen is a beloved breakfast or snack option.

Jan Dec
Bread› Flatbread› M'semen
African cuisine› North African cuisine› Moroccan cuisine

Preparation time

30 minutes

Cooking time

20 minutes

Total time

50 minutes

Yields

4 servings

Preparation difficulty

Medium

Suitable for

Vegetarian, Vegan (if butter is substituted with plant-based butter), Dairy-free (if butter is substituted with plant-based butter)

Allergens

Wheat, Dairy (if not using plant-based butter)

Not suitable for

Gluten-free, Nut-free

Ingredients

Nutrition

  • Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
  • Fat: 10g (Saturated Fat: 4g)
  • Carbohydrates: 35g (Sugar: 1g)
  • Protein: 5g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Salt: 1g

Preparation

  1. 1.
    In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, semolina flour, salt, sugar, and baking powder.
  2. 2.
    Gradually add warm water to the dry ingredients, mixing well until a soft dough forms.
  3. 3.
    Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
  4. 4.
    Divide the dough into 8 equal portions and shape them into balls. Let them rest for 10 minutes.
  5. 5.
    In a small bowl, mix the melted butter and vegetable oil.
  6. 6.
    Take one dough ball and flatten it with your hands. Brush the surface with the butter-oil mixture.
  7. 7.
    Stretch the dough gently from the edges, folding it over itself to create layers. Repeat this process with the remaining dough balls.
  8. 8.
    Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and add a drizzle of vegetable oil.
  9. 9.
    Cook each M'semen for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
  10. 10.
    Remove from the pan and drain on a paper towel to remove excess oil.
  11. 11.
    Serve M'semen warm with honey, powdered sugar, or your favorite dipping sauce.

Treat your ingredients with care...

  • Semolina flour — Semolina flour adds a unique texture and flavor to M'semen. If you can't find semolina flour, you can substitute it with fine cornmeal or regular flour, although the texture may differ slightly.
  • Warm water — Using warm water helps activate the yeast in the dough, resulting in a softer and more elastic texture. Make sure the water is not too hot to avoid killing the yeast.

Tips & Tricks

  • To achieve the flaky texture, make sure to brush each layer of dough with the butter-oil mixture generously.
  • If the dough becomes too sticky while kneading, lightly dust your hands and the surface with flour.
  • For a sweeter version, you can add a pinch of cinnamon or orange blossom water to the dough.
  • M'semen is best enjoyed fresh and warm, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat them in a toaster or oven.
  • Experiment with different fillings such as cheese, spinach, or ground meat to create savory variations.

Serving advice

Serve M'semen as a delicious breakfast or snack option. Pair it with a cup of Moroccan mint tea for an authentic experience.

Presentation advice

Arrange the M'semen on a platter, folded or rolled, and sprinkle them with powdered sugar for an elegant touch. Drizzle honey or a flavored syrup over the pancakes for added sweetness and visual appeal.

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