Traditional Moroccan Rfissa with Shredded Msemen, Chicken, and a Spiced Tomato Sauce

Introduction

Indulge in the aromatic flavors of Morocco with our traditional Rfissa recipe. This delectable dish, synonymous with celebrations and family gatherings, combines the vibrant flavors of a spiced tomato sauce, tender chicken, and shredded Msemen flatbread. Prepare to entice your taste buds and immerse yourself in the rich culinary heritage of Morocco.

Ingredients

For the Msemen Flatbread:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup warm water
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup melted butter

For the Chicken:

• 1 whole chicken (about 3 pounds)
• 2 onions, sliced
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Spiced Tomato Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 2 cups crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup water
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For Serving:

• 1 bag of shredded Msemen flatbread
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

Steps

Prepare the Msemen Flatbread:

1. In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and melted butter.
2. Gradually add warm water and knead until a soft and elastic dough forms.
3. Divide the dough into small balls and let rest for 30 minutes.
4. Roll out each dough ball into a thin circle.
5. Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the Msemen flatbreads for 1-2 minutes per side, until golden brown on both sides.

Cook the Chicken:

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onions, carrots, celery, and garlic and cook until softened.
3. Add the chicken and sear on all sides.
4. Pour in the chicken broth, bay leaf, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour, or until the chicken is cooked through.
6. Remove the chicken from the pot and shred the meat.

Make the Spiced Tomato Sauce:

1. In a separate pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened.
3. Add the cumin, cinnamon, ginger, and turmeric and cook for 1 minute.
4. Mix in the crushed tomatoes, water, salt, and black pepper.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.

Assemble the Rfissa:

1. In a large serving bowl, combine the shredded chicken, spiced tomato sauce, and shredded Msemen flatbread.
2. Stir gently to coat the flatbread with the sauce.
3. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve warm.

Tips

• For a richer flavor, use bone-in chicken instead of boneless.
• Add a pinch of saffron to the tomato sauce for an authentic Moroccan touch.
• If you don't have shredded Msemen flatbread, you can substitute commercially available pita bread.
• Serve the Rfissa with a side of pickled olives or Moroccan bread for a complete meal.

FAQs

Can I make the Rfissa ahead of time?

Yes, the Rfissa can be made up to 2 days in advance. Simply store it in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

What is a good accompaniment to Rfissa?

Rfissa is traditionally served with a side of pickled olives or Moroccan bread. It can also be paired with other Moroccan dishes, such as harira soup or mint tea.

Can I use store-bought shredded chicken?

Yes, you can use store-bought shredded chicken for convenience. However, using freshly shredded chicken will give the dish a more authentic flavor.