chicken pastilla, a Moroccan culinary masterpiece, is a delicate balance of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors. Inspired by this North African treasure, we embark on a culinary journey to create a dish that pays homage to its roots while embracing global influences.
Ingredients:
For the Filling:
1 whole chicken, cut into 8 pieces
1 large onion, finely chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 2 tablespoons hot water
1/4 cup olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup almonds, blanched and slivered
1/2 cup pine nuts
1/4 cup raisins, soaked in warm water and drained
Kaliket (Pastil)
Image Source: maggi.ph
For the Warqa:
1 package of filo pastry (phyllo dough)
1/2 cup melted butter
For the Egg Wash:
1 large egg, beaten
Preparation Process:
Total Time: 3-4 hours
1. Prepare the Chicken Filling:
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, cook until softened.
Add chicken pieces, spices, and saffron water. Season with salt and pepper.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, covered, until chicken is tender and cooked through.
Remove chicken from the pot and shred the meat.
In a separate pan, toast almonds and pine nuts until golden brown.
Combine shredded chicken, toasted nuts, and raisins in a large bowl.
2. Assemble the Pastilla:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Brush a 9-inch round baking dish with melted butter.
Lay one sheet of filo pastry in the dish, brushing it with melted butter. Repeat with 5-6 more layers.
Spread the chicken filling evenly over the pastry.
Top with remaining filo pastry sheets, brushing each layer with melted butter.
Cut the top layer of pastry into diamond shapes using a sharp knife.
Brush the top layer with beaten egg wash.
Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
Serving Suggestions:
Aromatic Tea Pairing: Serve your pastilla with a pot of fragrant Moroccan mint tea.
Sweet and Savory Contrast: Accompany the dish with a refreshing yogurt dip or a tangy chutney.
Elegant Presentation: Dust the pastilla with powdered sugar and garnish with fresh mint leaves.
A Fusion of Cultures
The Saffron-Kissed Chicken Pastilla is a testament to the beauty of cultural exchange. It blends the rich flavors of North African cuisine with the delicate artistry of Middle Eastern pastry-making. The result is a dish that is both comforting and sophisticated, a true feast for the senses.
