Mhancha, also known as "the snake" due to its coiled shape, is a delightful Algerian pastry often enjoyed during special occasions and festive celebrations. With its intricate spiral design and heavenly almond filling, this pastry is a true culinary masterpiece. Originating from Algeria, Mhancha showcases a harmonious blend of sweet and nutty flavors, enhanced by the subtle aroma of orange blossom water. Rich in history and cultural significance, this pastry not only pleases the palate but also offers a glimpse into Algeria's diverse culinary heritage. By following this recipe, you can recreate this traditional treat, known for its delightful taste and captivating presentation, right in your own kitchen.

Ingredients:

For the Pastry:

• 300g (10.5 oz) of fine semolina
• 200g (7 oz) of all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 120ml (1/2 cup) vegetable oil
• 120ml (1/2 cup) water
• 1 tablespoon orange blossom water (optional)
• Additional oil for brushing the pastry layers

For the Filling:

• 200g (7 oz) of blanched almonds, finely ground
• 100g (3.5 oz) of granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• Zest of one lemon
• 1-2 tablespoons orange blossom water
• 2-3 tablespoons water (as needed)

Instructions:

1- Start by making the pastry dough. In a large mixing bowl, combine the semolina, all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder.

2- In a separate bowl, mix the vegetable oil with the water. You can also add a tablespoon of orange blossom water to this mixture for extra flavor.

3- Slowly pour the oil and water mixture into the dry ingredients while stirring with a fork. Continue to mix until a dough forms. If it's too dry, add a little more water. Knead the dough for a few minutes until it's smooth and elastic.

4- Divide the dough into small portions and roll them into balls. Place the balls on a tray, cover them with a damp cloth, and let them rest for about 30 minutes.

5- While the dough is resting, prepare the almond filling. In a separate bowl, combine the finely ground almonds, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, lemon zest, and 1-2 tablespoons of orange blossom water. Mix well. If the mixture is too dry, you can add a little water to reach a paste-like consistency.

6- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).

7- Take one ball of dough and roll it out into a thin, circular sheet. Brush it with a thin layer of vegetable oil to prevent sticking.

8- Place a portion of the almond filling along the edge of the dough sheet and begin rolling it into a long cylinder.

9- Repeat this process with the remaining dough balls and almond filling, creating several coiled pastries.

10- Place the coiled pastries on a baking sheet and brush the tops with a little more vegetable oil.

11- Bake the Mhancha in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until they turn a golden brown color.

12- Once baked, let the pastries cool for a few minutes before slicing them into smaller pieces.

Algerian Mhancha is best served with a dusting of powdered sugar and a cup of mint tea. Enjoy the delightful flavors of this Algerian pastry, which will transport you to the heart of North Africa.

Nutritional Values

Here are the approximate nutritional values for the ingredients in the Algerian Mhancha recipe per serving. Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on specific brands and measurements:

For the Pastry (per serving, based on 12 servings):

• Calories: 277
• Total Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 1.6g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 98mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 30g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 5g
• Protein: 5g

benefits:

1. Fine Semolina: Adds texture and structure to the pastry, giving it a slightly grainy yet tender bite.
2. All-purpose Flour: Provides additional structure and helps bind the ingredients together.
3. Salt: Enhances the flavor of the pastry by balancing out the sweetness of the filling.
4. Baking Powder: Helps the pastry rise slightly, resulting in a lighter texture.
5. Vegetable Oil: Moistens the pastry and adds richness, contributing to its flakiness.
6. Water: Combines with the oil to form a dough, aiding in the binding process.
7. Orange Blossom Water (optional): Adds a delicate floral aroma and flavor to the pastry, enhancing its overall profile.
8. Additional Oil for Brushing the Pastry Layers: Helps create distinct layers in the pastry and adds a crisp texture when baked.

For the Filling (per serving, based on 12 servings):

• Calories: 105
• Total Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 0.6g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 1mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 7g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 5g
• Protein: 3g

benefits:

1. Blanched Almonds, Finely Ground: Provides a nutty flavor and a smooth, creamy texture to the filling.
2. Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the filling, balancing the spices and enhancing the overall taste.
3. Ground Cinnamon: Adds warmth and depth of flavor, complementing the sweetness of the sugar.
4. Ground Cloves: Contributes a rich, earthy flavor with hints of spice to the filling.
5. Zest of One Lemon: Infuses the filling with a bright, citrusy aroma and tangy undertones.
6. Orange Blossom Water: Offers a subtle floral note, enhancing the aroma and flavor of the filling.
7. Water (as needed): Helps bind the filling ingredients together to achieve the desired consistency, ensuring easy spreading onto the pastry layers.

These values are based on standard ingredients and portion sizes. Please keep in mind that the actual nutritional values may vary depending on the specific brands and products you use and how you divide the servings. It's always a good idea to consult the packaging of the ingredients you use for precise nutritional information and consider any variations or modifications in the recipe.