Moroccan Bastilla

Moroccan Bastilla: A Delicious and Flavorful Dish
Moroccan Bastilla is a traditional Moroccan dish that is known for its unique blend of sweet and savory flavors. This dish is made with layers of phyllo dough, chicken, almonds, and spices, and is topped with a dusting of powdered sugar and cinnamon. It is a perfect dish for special occasions and gatherings.
Ingredients:

For the filling:

- 2 lbs. chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp. ginger, grated
- 1 tsp. ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp. ground cumin
- 1 tsp. paprika
- 1/2 tsp. turmeric
- 1/2 tsp. salt
- 1/4 tsp. black pepper
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup chopped almonds
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 2 tbsp. butter
- 2 tbsp. olive oil

For the phyllo dough:

- 1 lb. phyllo dough
- 1/2 cup melted butter

For the topping:

- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp. ground cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until softened.
3. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides.
4. Add the ginger, cinnamon, cumin, paprika, turmeric, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Add the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Cover and cook for 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
6. Remove the chicken from the skillet and shred it into small pieces.
7. Add the almonds, parsley, and cilantro to the skillet and stir to combine.
8. Add the shredded chicken back to the skillet and stir to combine.
9. Brush a 9-inch pie dish with melted butter.
10. Layer the phyllo dough in the pie dish, brushing each layer with melted butter.
11. Spoon the chicken mixture into the pie dish.
12. Layer the remaining phyllo dough on top of the chicken mixture, brushing each layer with melted butter.
13. Fold the edges of the phyllo dough over the top of the pie.
14. Brush the top of the pie with melted butter.
15. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the phyllo dough is golden brown.
16. Remove from the oven and let cool for 10 minutes.
17. Dust the top of the pie with powdered sugar and cinnamon.
18. Serve warm.
Appearance and Taste:
Moroccan Bastilla is a beautiful dish that is sure to impress your guests. The layers of phyllo dough give it a crispy texture, while the chicken and almond filling is rich and flavorful. The dusting of powdered sugar and cinnamon on top adds a touch of sweetness that perfectly balances the savory flavors of the dish.
Type of Dish: Savory Pastry
Main Ingredients: Chicken, Almonds, Phyllo Dough