Discover how to make perfect Msemen, the traditional Moroccan flaky flatbreads. This easy recipe yields square-shaped Msemen that are ideal for serving with honey or using to scoop up your favorite stews and soups. Learn the step-by-step process to achieve the perfect texture and flavor!

Ingredients:

- 2 cups all-purpose flour

- 1 cup semolina

- 1 tsp salt

- 1 tsp sugar

- 1/2 cup warm water (adjust as needed)

- 1/4 cup vegetable oil (plus extra for greasing)

- 1/4 cup melted butter (for brushing)

Instructions:

Prepare the Dough:

  - In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, semolina, salt, and sugar.

  - Gradually add warm water, mixing until a soft, pliable dough forms. Adjust the amount of water as needed.

  - Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth.

  - Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.

Divide and Shape:

  - After resting, divide the dough into small balls, roughly the size of a golf ball.

  - On a floured surface, flatten each ball into a thin, rectangular shape. Aim for a thickness of about 1/8 inch.

Cook the Msemen:

  - Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Brush lightly with oil.

  - Place a flattened dough piece onto the skillet. Cook for about 2 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.

  - Repeat with the remaining dough pieces, brushing the skillet with oil as needed.

Serve:

  - Brush each cooked Msemen with melted butter.

  - Serve warm with honey, or use to scoop up your favorite stews and soups.

Enjoy your homemade Msemen!

Nutritional values

Here’s the nutritional information and benefits for each ingredient:

2 cups all-purpose flour

 - Calories: Approximately 910 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 190g

 - Sugars: 0g

 - Protein: 24g

 - Fat: 2g

Benefits:

 - Provides a base for baked goods. Supplies carbohydrates for energy and some protein.

1 cup semolina

 - Calories: Approximately 600 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 120g

 - Sugars: 0g

 - Protein: 20g

 - Fat: 1g

Benefits:

 - Adds texture and a slightly nutty flavor. Provides carbohydrates and protein, and is a good source of iron and magnesium.

1 tsp salt

 - Calories: 0 kcal

 - Sodium: Approximately 2,300 mg

Benefits:

 - Enhances flavor. Sodium is necessary for fluid balance but should be used in moderation.

1 tsp sugar

 - Calories: Approximately 16 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 4g

 - Sugars: 4g

Benefits:

 - Adds sweetness. Provides a quick source of energy.

1/2 cup warm water (adjust as needed)

 - Calories: 0 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 0g

 - Sugars: 0g

 - Protein: 0g

 - Fat: 0g

Benefits:

 - Used to hydrate the flour and semolina, essential for forming dough.

1/4 cup vegetable oil (plus extra for greasing)

 - Calories: Approximately 480 kcal

 - Fat: 56g

 - Carbohydrates: 0g

 - Protein: 0g

Benefits:

 - Provides fat for a tender texture. Vegetable oil is a source of unsaturated fats.

1/4 cup melted butter (for brushing)

 - Calories: Approximately 200 kcal

 - Fat: 22g

 - Carbohydrates: 0g

 - Protein: 0g

Benefits:

 - Adds flavor and helps with browning. Butter contains saturated fats and some vitamins (A, D, E, and K).