Moroccan Pastilla Recipe

Moroccan pastilla, also called bastilla, is a sweet and savory tart typically made with flaky pastry dough, cinnamon, and a combination of ground meat and toasted almonds. This delicious tart is often served as a main course or as an appetizer during special occasions. Follow this recipe to make a perfect Moroccan pastilla that your guests will love.

Ingredients:

  • 1 package puff pastry dough

  • 1/2 pound ground chicken or beef

  • 1 onion, finely minced

  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger

  • 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric

  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

  • 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads

  • 1 cup toasted almond slivers

  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

  • 4 tablespoons olive oil

  • 1/4 cup butter, melted

  • 1/4 cup honey

  • 2 eggs, beaten

Instructions:

  • Preheat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.

  • In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add ground meat and onion and cook, stirring regularly, until meat is lightly browned and onion is translucent, about 5 minutes. Add cinnamon, ginger, turmeric, pepper, and saffron and cook, stirring regularly, for 2 more minutes.

  • Remove skillet from heat and stir in toasted almond slivers and parsley. Transfer mixture to a plate and set aside.

  • On a lightly floured surface, roll out one sheet of puff pastry dough. Using a 9-inch round tart tin as a template, cut out the dough and place it in the tin. Gently press the dough into the bottom and sides of the tin.

  • Spread the cooked meat mixture evenly into the pastry shell. Roll out the second pastry dough sheet and place over the top of the pastry shell. Use a small knife to trim away any excess pastry dough. Pierce the top of the pastry with a fork in several places.

  • In a bowl, combine together melted butter, honey and eggs. Brush the top of the pastry with the egg mixture. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until pastry is lightly browned and crisp on top. Let cool completely before serving.

Moroccan pastilla is a delicious treat that’s sure to impress your guests. Serve it as a main course or an appetizer and be prepared for rave reviews from everyone. Enjoy!