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:

1. 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.

1. Mix Dry Ingredients:

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the semolina, all-purpose flour, and salt.

1. 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.

1. Knead the Dough:

• Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10-15 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.

1. 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.

1. 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.

1. 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.

1. 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.

1. 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

Instructions:

1. 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.

1. Mix Dry Ingredients:

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, semolina, and salt.

1. 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.

1. Knead the Dough:

• Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10-15 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.

1. 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.

1. Roll Out the Dough:

• Take a ball of dough and roll it out into a thin disc, similar to a crepe.

1. 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.

1. Brush with Butter:

• While still warm, brush the surface of the moufleta with melted butter.

1. 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.

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