MellalKhénifra

Mellal Khénifra refers to a traditional Moroccan dish originating from the Khénifra region. It is a savory pie, often described as a pastilla or bastilla, with regional variations in its preparation and ingredients. The core of Mellal Khénifra typically involves finely shredded or minced meat, commonly pigeon or chicken, seasoned with a blend of spices that may include ginger, cinnamon, saffron, and black pepper. This flavorful filling is then enclosed in layers of thin, crispy pastry dough known as warqa.

A distinguishing feature of Mellal Khénifra is the incorporation of almonds, which are often ground and mixed with sugar and cinnamon to create a sweet and nutty layer within the pie. This sweet and savory combination is characteristic of many Moroccan pastillas. The pie is baked until the warqa pastry is golden brown and crisp, and the filling is thoroughly cooked. Before serving, it is traditionally dusted with a generous amount of powdered sugar and sometimes decorated with cinnamon. The texture of Mellal Khénifra is a delightful contrast between the flaky, delicate pastry and the rich, spiced filling. It is usually served as a starter or a main course, enjoyed for its complex flavors and aromatic qualities.