Traditional Moroccan Rfissa with Shredded Msemen and Chicken

Introduction

Indulge in the rich flavors of traditional Moroccan Rfissa, a comforting dish that combines shredded Msemen flatbread, tender chicken, and a flavorful broth. This hearty and satisfying dish is a staple at Moroccan gatherings and festivals. Its unique blend of spices and textures creates an unforgettable culinary experience.

Ingredients

• 1 whole chicken (around 3-4 pounds)
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 8 cups chicken broth
• 6 Msemen flatbreads, shredded into strips
• 1 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Steps

1. Prepare the chicken: Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large pot and brown the chicken on all sides. Remove the chicken and set aside.
2. Sauté the aromatics: In the same pot, add the onion and sauté until softened. Add the garlic, ginger, cinnamon, and black pepper and cook for another minute to release their aromas.
3. Simmer the broth: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Add the saffron threads and return the chicken to the pot. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 45-60 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
4. Shred the chicken and add the Msemen: Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it. Add the shredded chicken back to the broth along with the shredded Msemen.
5. Season and finish: Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. Simmer for another 10-15 minutes, allowing the Msemen to absorb the flavors of the broth.
6. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with chopped cilantro and parsley. Serve immediately with lemon wedges for a refreshing touch.

Tips

• For a richer flavor, use homemade Msemen flatbread.
• If you don't have saffron threads, you can use 1/4 teaspoon of ground turmeric instead.
• To speed up cooking time, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of a whole chicken.
• Rfissa can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving.

FAQ

• What is Msemen bread? Msemen bread is a traditional Moroccan flatbread made from semolina flour. It has a flaky texture and a slightly crispy exterior.
• Can I use other types of bread instead of Msemen? You can use other flatbreads like tortillas or naan, but the texture of the dish will be different.
• Is Rfissa a vegetarian dish? No, traditional Rfissa contains chicken. However, you can make a vegetarian version by using vegetable broth and tofu instead of chicken.