Berber Navette

Ingredients

In this adaptation, the French Navette is transformed into a Berber delight by incorporating traditional Berber spices such as cumin, coriander, and paprika into the dough. The filling is also modified to include ground almonds, honey, and orange blossom water, adding a distinct Berber flavor profile to the pastry. We alse have the original recipe for Navette, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup (50g) ground almonds 1/4 cup (50g) ground almonds
• 2 tablespoons honey 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon orange blossom water 1 tablespoon orange blossom water
• Powdered sugar, for dusting Powdered sugar, for dusting

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 220 kcal / 920 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 6g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 25g, 8g
• Protein: 3g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, ground cumin, ground coriander, paprika, and salt.
2. 2.
   Add the cold cubed butter to the bowl and use your fingertips to rub it into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. 3.
   Stir in the granulated sugar, ground almonds, honey, and orange blossom water until the dough comes together.
4. 4.
   Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it gently until smooth.
5. 5.
   Shape the dough into a ball, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
6. 6.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
7. 7.
   Roll out the chilled dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch.
8. 8.
   Use a knife or a cookie cutter to cut out oval-shaped pieces of dough.
9. 9.
   Place the ovals onto the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until golden brown.
10. 10.
    Remove from the oven and let the pastries cool completely.
11. 11.
    Dust the cooled pastries with powdered sugar before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Ground almonds — Make sure to use finely ground almonds for a smooth and consistent texture in the filling.

Tips & Tricks

• For a more pronounced Berber flavor, you can increase the amount of cumin, coriander, and paprika in the dough.
• If you prefer a sweeter filling, you can add an extra tablespoon of honey to the almond mixture.
• Serve the Berber Navette with a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of orange zest for an extra touch of sweetness.

Serving advice

Serve the Berber Navette as a delightful dessert alongside a cup of Moroccan mint tea. The pastries can also be enjoyed as a sweet treat during afternoon tea or as a special addition to a brunch spread.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Berber Navette on a platter and dust them generously with powdered sugar for an elegant and inviting presentation. You can also garnish the platter with fresh mint leaves or edible flowers for a pop of color.