Traditional Moroccan Rfissa Recipe

Traditional Moroccan Rfissa Recipe is a traditional Moroccan dish, known for its combination of tender chicken, lentils, and thin, spiced flatbread called “Msemen” or “Trid.” It is often prepared for special occasions, like the birth of a child, and captures the deep flavors of Moroccan cuisine.

---

Ingredients:

• 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
• 500g lentils
• 3 large onions, sliced
• 1 cup toasted almonds (for garnish)
• 4 boiled eggs (for garnish)
• 2 tablespoons ground ginger
• 1 tablespoon turmeric
• 1 tablespoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon saffron (threads or powder)
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 bunch of cilantro and parsley, tied together
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 liter water

For the Msemen or Trid flatbread:

• You can purchase it pre-made or make it at home. If you’d like to make it yourself, you will need:
  • 500g flour
  • 200g fine semolina
  • Warm water
  • Salt
  • Oil for greasing

---

Traditional Moroccan Rfissa Recipe:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat and add the chicken pieces. Sear until golden brown.
2. Add the sliced onions and cook until soft and translucent.
3. Add the ginger, turmeric, cumin, saffron, and cinnamon stick. Stir well to blend the spices.
4. Pour in the water and add the bunch of cilantro and parsley. Cover and let simmer over low heat for about 45 minutes, until the chicken is tender.

Step 2: Prepare the Lentils

1. Rinse the lentils and add them to the pot with the chicken after the first 15 minutes of cooking.
2. Continue cooking until the lentils are soft and fully cooked. Add more water if necessary to keep the broth.

Step 3: Prepare the Msemen Flatbread (optional)

1. In a bowl, mix the flour, semolina, water, and salt until you have a smooth, elastic dough.
2. Divide the dough into balls and roll them out thin, brushing with oil.
3. Cook the flatbread on a griddle or skillet until golden brown. Tear the bread into large pieces once cooked.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

1. In a large serving dish, arrange the pieces of torn Msemen bread.
2. Pour the chicken and lentils along with the broth over the bread.
3. Garnish with toasted almonds and boiled eggs.

---

Traditional Moroccan Rfissa Recipe–Nutritional Value (per serving):

• Calories: 650 kcal
• Protein: 40g
• Carbohydrates: 60g
• Fat: 25g