Sellou is a Traditional Moroccan dessert that is often prepared for celebrations and special occasions like Ramadan. Sellou is a rich, nutrient-packed mixture of roasted flour, almonds, sesame seeds, and spices, bound together with honey and butter. It is usually decorated with whole almonds.
Ingredients:
- For the main mixture:
- 500 g all-purpose flour
- 250 g almonds, blanched and toasted
- 250 g sesame seeds, toasted
- 100 g anise seeds, ground
- 2 tablespoons cinnamon powder
- 1 teaspoon ground gum Arabic (optional)
- 250 g melted butter
- 200 g powdered sugar (adjust to taste)
- 200 ml honey (optional, adjust to taste)
- A pinch of salt
- For decoration:
- Whole toasted almonds
Instructions:
- Roast the flour:
- In a large, dry pan or skillet, roast the flour over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it turns a deep golden brown color. This step is essential to give Sellou its signature nutty flavor. Once browned, sift the flour to remove any lumps and allow it to cool completely.
- Toast the almonds and sesame seeds:
- Toast the almonds in the oven at 180°C (350°F) or in a dry pan until golden brown. Set aside some whole almonds for decoration, and coarsely grind the rest.
- In the same dry skillet, toast the sesame seeds until they are golden and fragrant. Grind them finely using a food processor or spice grinder.
- Mix the dry ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the roasted flour, ground almonds, ground sesame seeds, ground anise seeds, cinnamon, and ground gum Arabic (if using). Add a pinch of salt and mix everything thoroughly.
- Incorporate the butter and honey:
- Gradually add the melted butter to the dry mixture, mixing as you go. Then, add the honey and powdered sugar, adjusting to taste. Continue mixing until the ingredients form a crumbly yet slightly moist mixture that holds together when pressed.
- Shaping the Sellou:
- Transfer the mixture to a serving dish. Traditionally, Sellou is shaped into a dome or mound, as seen in the image. Press the mixture firmly into the dish or shape it by hand.
- Decorate:
- Garnish the top of the Sellou with the whole toasted almonds you set aside earlier. You can arrange them in patterns or simply scatter them on top.
- Serving:
- Sellou can be served immediately or stored in an airtight container. It keeps well for weeks at room temperature due to the roasted ingredients and absence of perishable items. Serve it alongside traditional Moroccan mint tea or as an energy-packed treat during Ramadan.
Tips:
- Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter Sellou, increase the amount of honey or powdered sugar to taste.
- Storing: Sellou keeps well in airtight containers for several weeks and can even be stored in the refrigerator for longer-lasting freshness.
- Optional additions: Some versions of Sellou include dried fruits, such as raisins, or spices like nutmeg for additional flavor.
This nourishing and rich dessert is beloved for its unique flavors and high energy content, making it a favorite during special occasions. Enjoy your homemade Sellou!