Description
North African Stuffed Msemen (Mahjouba Style) are crispy, pan-fried flatbreads filled with a savory mix of spiced ground meat, onions, and peas, offering a delicious taste of Algerian street food culture.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup fine semolina
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 3/4 cup warm water (more as needed)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for folding and cooking)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 lb ground beef or lamb
- 1/2 cup green peas (fresh or thawed)
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp turmeric
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: chopped parsley or cilantro
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix flour, semolina, and salt. Gradually add water and knead until a soft, elastic dough forms. Cover and let rest for 30 minutes.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet. Sauté onion and garlic until soft. Add ground meat, peas, and spices. Cook until browned and aromatic. Stir in herbs and let cool.
- Divide dough into small balls. On an oiled surface, flatten each ball into a thin square or circle.
- Place a spoonful of filling in the center and fold the edges over to enclose. Flatten gently.
- Heat a nonstick skillet with a little oil. Cook each stuffed msemen for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and crisp.
- Serve warm with harissa, mint tea, or a fresh salad.
Notes
- Resting the dough is crucial for easier stretching and folding.
- You can prepare the filling in advance and refrigerate.
- These msemen can be frozen and reheated on a skillet or in the oven.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed msemen
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 190mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
