How to Prepare Meloui and Moufleta : A Moroccan Bread
|Meloui, also known as “Rghaif” or “Mlawi,” is a Moroccan flatbread that is distinctively folded in layers, resulting in a flaky and crispy texture. It is often enjoyed for breakfast or as a snack and can be served with honey, jam, or cheese. Here’s a basic recipe for making Meloui:
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 4 cups fine semolina
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- Warm water (as needed)
For Folding:
- Unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
![](https://africancontents.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/MELOUI-PANCAKES-026-1024x683.jpg)
- Activate the Yeast:
- In a small bowl, dissolve the sugar in warm water. Sprinkle the yeast over the water and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the semolina, all-purpose flour, and salt.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
- Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the yeast mixture. Gradually incorporate the flour into the wet ingredients, adding more warm water as needed, until a soft and elastic dough forms.
- Knead the Dough:
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10-15 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Divide and Rest:
- Divide the dough into small balls, about the size of a golf ball. Place them on a tray, cover with a cloth, and let them rest for about 15-20 minutes.
- Shape and Fold:
- Take a ball of dough and flatten it with your hands into a thin disc. Brush the surface with melted butter and fold it into thirds. Brush the top with more butter.
- Repeat Folding:
- Let the folded dough rest for a few minutes, then flatten it again and repeat the folding process. Continue this process until the dough has multiple layers.
- Cooking:
- Heat a griddle or non-stick pan over medium heat. Cook the folded dough on both sides until it is golden brown and crispy.
- Serve:
- Serve the meloui warm, either plain or with your choice of toppings such as honey, jam, or cheese.
- Sweet Meloui: Add a bit more sugar to the dough for a slightly sweeter version, perfect for pairing with sweet toppings.
Meloui is known for its unique texture, created through the process of folding and layering the dough. It’s a delightful addition to Moroccan breakfasts and tea times.
The Recipe of Moufleta
Moufleta is a traditional Moroccan Jewish flatbread that is often prepared during the celebration of the Mimouna festival, which marks the end of Passover. It’s a sweet and delicious treat that is enjoyed with honey, butter, or jam. Here’s a basic recipe for making Moufleta:
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup fine semolina
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- Warm water (as needed)
For Filling and Topping:
- Unsalted butter, melted
- Honey or jam
![](https://africancontents.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/merlin_135727107_6100cb28-6b5d-4b22-9018-604e138927d9-articleLarge.jpg)
Instructions:
- Activate the Yeast:
- In a small bowl, dissolve the sugar in warm water. Sprinkle the yeast over the water and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, semolina, and salt.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
- Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the yeast mixture. Gradually incorporate the flour into the wet ingredients, adding more warm water as needed, until a soft and elastic dough forms.
- Knead the Dough:
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10-15 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Divide and Rest:
- Divide the dough into small balls, about the size of a golf ball. Place them on a tray, cover with a cloth, and let them rest for about 15-20 minutes.
- Roll Out the Dough:
- Take a ball of dough and roll it out into a thin disc, similar to a crepe.
- Cooking:
- Heat a griddle or non-stick pan over medium heat. Cook the rolled-out dough on both sides until it is lightly browned and cooked through.
- Brush with Butter:
- While still warm, brush the surface of the moufleta with melted butter.
- Serve:
- Serve the moufleta warm, either folded or rolled up, and drizzle with honey or spread with jam.
Mimouna Tradition:
During the Mimouna celebration, it’s common to serve moufleta alongside a variety of sweets, fruits, and dairy products. The sweet and buttery flavor of moufleta makes it a delightful treat for festive occasions.