Pastilla au Poulet

Pastilla au Poulet is a traditional Moroccan dish that elegantly combines the flavors of spiced chicken, crunchy pastry, and sweet cinnamon. This savory-sweet pie is perfect for a special lunch or gathering, bringing a taste of Morocco to your table.

Ingredients

• Chicken thighs - 300 grams
• Onion - 1 medium, finely chopped
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Ground cinnamon - 1 teaspoon
• Ground ginger - 1/2 teaspoon
• Ground cumin - 1/2 teaspoon
• Turmeric - 1/2 teaspoon
• Salt - 1 teaspoon
• Black pepper - 1/2 teaspoon
• Fresh parsley - 2 tablespoons, chopped
• Fresh cilantro - 2 tablespoons, chopped
• Eggs - 2, beaten
• Almonds - 50 grams, blanched and chopped
• Phyllo pastry - 6 sheets
• Butter - 50 grams, melted
• Powdered sugar - for dusting

Steps

1. In a pot, combine chicken thighs, chopped onion, minced garlic, cinnamon, ginger, cumin, turmeric, salt, and black pepper. Add enough water to cover the chicken and simmer on medium heat for about 30 minutes until cooked through.
2. Remove the chicken from the pot and let it cool. Reserve the cooking liquid. Once cool, shred the chicken into small pieces, discarding the bones.
3. In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken with chopped parsley, cilantro, and chopped almonds. Stir in the beaten eggs and a few tablespoons of the reserved cooking liquid to moisten the mixture.
4. Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F). Lay out a sheet of phyllo pastry on a baking tray and brush with melted butter. Layer 3 more sheets, brushing each layer with butter.
5. Place the chicken mixture in the center of the phyllo layers. Fold the edges over the filling to create a parcel, then flip it over so the seam side is down.
6. Brush the top with more melted butter and bake for 25-30 minutes, until golden brown and crispy.
7. Once baked, dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Nutrition

• Calories: 550
• Protein: 30 g
• Carbs: 45 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugar: 5 g
• Sodium: 800 mg
• Cholesterol: 200 mg
• Total Fat: 30 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
• Water: 0.5 L

Health Benefits

• Rich in protein from chicken and eggs, supporting muscle health.
• Contains healthy fats from almonds, which can aid in heart health.

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