B'stilla (Chicken and Almond Pastilla)

 B'stilla, also known as Pastilla or Bastilla, is a traditional Moroccan dish that features a unique combination of sweet and savory flavors. It is often made with pigeon, but chicken is a common substitute. The dish typically consists of layers of thin pastry (warqa or phyllo dough), chicken or pigeon meat, almonds, and a mixture of aromatic spices. The whole pie is then baked until the pastry is golden and crispy.

Here's a basic recipe for Chicken and Almond B'stilla:

Ingredients:

For the Filling:

• 1 whole chicken, cooked and shredded (or use chicken thighs)
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3/4 cup blanched almonds, toasted and coarsely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 eggs, beaten

For the Assembly:

• 8-10 sheets of phyllo dough or warqa
• Butter, melted
• Powdered sugar and ground cinnamon for dusting

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Filling:

   • In a large pan, sauté the chopped onions until translucent.
   • Add the shredded chicken to the pan and cook until browned.
   • Stir in the chopped almonds, parsley, cilantro, cinnamon, ginger, cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Cook for a few more minutes until well combined.
   • Pour in the beaten eggs and continue stirring until the eggs are cooked and the mixture has a cohesive texture. Remove from heat and let it cool.

2. Assemble the B'stilla:

   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Place one sheet of phyllo dough on a clean surface and brush it lightly with melted butter. Repeat the process, stacking the sheets on top of each other.
   • Spoon the chicken and almond filling onto the center of the stacked phyllo sheets.
   • Fold the edges of the phyllo over the filling to create a round or rectangular shape, depending on your preference. Brush the top with more melted butter.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the pastry is golden and crisp.

3. Serve:

   • Once baked, remove the B'stilla from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
   • Dust the top with a mixture of powdered sugar and ground cinnamon.
   • Slice and serve warm.

B'stilla is a delightful dish that combines the richness of spices, the savory goodness of chicken, and the crunch of almonds with the flaky layers of phyllo dough. It's a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, making it a unique and delicious addition to your culinary repertoire.