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Flaky Layered Bread Msemen Recipe: A Deliciously Crisp Treat
If you’re craving something warm, flaky, and irresistible, Msemen (a traditional Moroccan and North African layered bread) is the perfect choice. With its crispy exterior and soft, chewy layers inside, this bread is ideal for breakfast, a snack, or even as a side to a savory meal. Best of all, it’s made with simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry!
Ingredients:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup semolina flour (optional, for added texture)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon dry yeast
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (or as needed)
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil (for the dough and folding)
- 1/4 cup melted butter (for brushing the layers)
- Extra flour or semolina for dusting
Instructions:
- Prepare the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, semolina (if using), salt, sugar, and dry yeast. Slowly add the warm water, mixing as you go, until the dough begins to come together. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. If the dough feels too sticky, add a little more flour.
- Let the dough rise: Coat the dough lightly with a bit of oil, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rest for about 30 minutes to 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
- Divide and shape the dough: Once the dough has risen, divide it into small balls (about the size of a golf ball or a little larger). Grease your hands with oil and flatten each ball into a thin circle, about 1/8-inch thick, using your fingers or a rolling pin. The dough should be as thin as possible without tearing.
- Layer and fold: Brush each circle of dough generously with melted butter and a little oil. Starting from one edge, fold the dough into thirds like a letter, then fold the other side, creating a rectangle. Then fold the rectangle again into thirds to form a small square. Set the squares aside and repeat with the remaining dough.
- Cook the bread: Heat a large nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Once hot, add a bit of oil or butter and place one of the folded squares onto the skillet. Press it gently with your fingers or a spatula to flatten it slightly as it cooks. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy on the outside. Continue with the remaining dough squares.
- Serve: Once cooked, transfer the bread to a wire rack to cool slightly. Serve warm with honey, jam, or butter, or alongside savory dishes like tagine, grilled meats, or soup.
Recipe Tips:
- Filling Options: For a savory twist, you can fill each layer with ingredients like caramelized onions, ground meat, or herbs before folding the dough.
- Storage: These breads can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them back on the skillet for a couple of minutes to restore their crispiness.
- Make-Ahead: You can prepare the dough ahead of time and freeze the uncooked folded dough squares. When you’re ready to cook them, thaw them in the fridge overnight and cook them fresh in the morning.
What Makes This Bread Special?
The key to Msemen’s irresistible texture lies in the process of folding the dough multiple times and brushing each layer with butter and oil. This creates the flaky, crispy texture on the outside while keeping the inside soft and tender. The bread is simple yet versatile and can be enjoyed in both sweet and savory variations.
Serving Suggestions:
Pair this flaky layered bread with a cup of Moroccan mint tea, serve it alongside a rich lentil soup, or enjoy it for breakfast with honey and cheese. It’s a comforting and versatile dish that’s sure to impress anyone who tries it!
This layered bread recipe is not only delicious but also a fun cooking project. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just because you’re craving some comfort food, this bread will always satisfy your taste buds with its flaky goodness.
Let me know if you’d like any changes to the recipe or more ideas on how to customize it!
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