Bastilla

Bastilla is a traditional Moroccan dish that combines sweet and savory flavors, featuring a crispy pastry filled with spiced chicken and nuts. This high-protein version is perfect for a satisfying lunch that showcases the rich culinary heritage of Morocco.

Ingredients

• boneless chicken thighs - 250 grams
• onion - 1 medium, finely chopped
• garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• ground cinnamon - 1 teaspoon
• ground ginger - 1 teaspoon
• ground turmeric - 1/2 teaspoon
• ground cumin - 1 teaspoon
• salt - 1/2 teaspoon
• black pepper - 1/2 teaspoon
• eggs - 2 large
• fresh parsley - 2 tablespoons, chopped
• almonds - 50 grams, toasted and roughly chopped
• phyllo pastry sheets - 4
• olive oil - 2 tablespoons
• powdered sugar - 1 tablespoon (for garnish)
• cinnamon powder - 1 teaspoon (for garnish)

Steps

1. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the chicken thighs to the skillet, along with cinnamon, ginger, turmeric, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Cook for about 15 minutes until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
3. Remove the chicken from the skillet, let it cool slightly, then shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the skillet.
4. In a bowl, beat the eggs and stir in the chopped parsley and toasted almonds. Combine this mixture with the shredded chicken in the skillet, cooking on low heat for another 5 minutes until the eggs are set. Allow the filling to cool.
5. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
6. Lay one sheet of phyllo pastry on a clean surface and brush it lightly with olive oil. Layer two more sheets on top, brushing each with oil.
7. Place a portion of the chicken filling in the center of the phyllo sheets and fold the pastry over to create a parcel. Repeat with the remaining filling and pastry sheets.
8. Transfer the parcels to a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with more olive oil.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the pastry is golden and crispy.
10. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Dust with powdered sugar and cinnamon before serving.

Nutrition

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 30 g
• Carbs: 30 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Cholesterol: 150 mg
• Total Fat: 25 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
• Water: 0.5 L

Health Benefits

• High in protein, which supports muscle repair and growth.
• Contains healthy fats from olive oil and almonds, promoting heart health.

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