Exploring the Moroccan Sellou and Ghoriba Bahla Recipe

Elevate your taste buds with the unique and rich flavors of Sellou, a traditional Moroccan sweet treat also known as Sfouf or Zmita. This no-bake confection, filled with almonds, sesame seeds, and aromatic spices, is often enjoyed during special occasions, especially during Ramadan. Follow this authentic recipe to create a batch of Sellou and experience the true essence of Moroccan sweets.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup blanched almonds, finely ground
• 1 cup toasted sesame seeds, finely ground
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
• A pinch of salt
• Additional toasted sesame seeds for coating (optional)

Instructions:

Prepare the Ingredients:

1. Toast Sesame Seeds: In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the sesame seeds until golden brown. Stir frequently to avoid burning. Once toasted, set them aside to cool.
2. Grind Almonds and Sesame Seeds: Grind the blanched almonds and toasted sesame seeds separately until they reach a fine texture. A food processor works well for this.

Mix the Dry Ingredients:

3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the finely ground almonds, finely ground sesame seeds, powdered sugar, all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground cloves, ground cardamom, and a pinch of salt. Mix well to ensure even distribution of the dry ingredients.

Combine Wet Ingredients:

4. Melt Butter and Add Oil: In a saucepan, melt the unsalted butter. Once melted, add the vegetable oil to the butter and mix well.
5. Add Honey: Pour in the honey and continue stirring over low heat until the mixture is well combined. Be careful not to let it boil.

Bring it All Together:

6. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Pour the melted butter, oil, and honey mixture over the dry ingredients. Mix thoroughly until everything is well combined.

Shape and Coat:

7. Shape into Rounds: Take small portions of the Sellou mixture and shape them into rounds or discs. The size can vary according to your preference.
8. Optional Sesame Coating: For an extra touch, you can coat the Sellou rounds with additional toasted sesame seeds.

Serve and Enjoy:

9. Cool and Set: Allow the Sellou to cool and set at room temperature. It might take a few hours for it to firm up.
10. Presentation: Once set, arrange the Sellou rounds on a platter. They are now ready to be enjoyed.

Conclusion:

Moroccan Sellou, also known as Sfouf or Zmita, is a delightful representation of Moroccan sweets—nutty, spiced, and sweet. Whether served during special occasions or as a sweet ending to a meal, this no-bake treat is sure to captivate your taste buds with its unique and rich flavors.

Ghoriba Bahla Recipe – Moroccan Shortbread Cookies

Ghoriba Bahla Recipe – Moroccan Shortbread Cookies

Indulge your taste buds in the irresistible charm of Ghoriba Bahla, Moroccan shortbread cookies that are both delicate and rich in flavor. These almond and sesame-studded delights are a staple during festive occasions and family gatherings. Let’s embark on the culinary journey to create these heavenly treats in your own kitchen.

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 2 cups fine semolina
• 1 cup almond flour (or finely ground almonds)
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
• A pinch of salt

For Coating:

• Powdered sugar
• Sesame seeds

Instructions:

Prepare the Dough:

1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the fine semolina, almond flour, powdered sugar, baking powder, ground cinnamon, ground cardamom, and a pinch of salt.
2. Incorporate Butter and Oil: Add the softened butter and vegetable oil to the dry ingredients. Mix well until the ingredients come together to form a smooth dough. The dough should be soft but not sticky.
3. Chill the Dough: Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps the dough firm up, making it easier to handle.

Shape and Bake:

4. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
5. Shape the Cookies: Take small portions of the chilled dough and roll them into balls or shape them into crescents. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each cookie.
6. Coat with Sesame Seeds: Roll each cookie in sesame seeds, ensuring an even coating. Gently press the sesame seeds into the dough to help them adhere.
7. Bake to Perfection: Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until the edges are golden brown. Keep an eye on them to prevent over-baking.

Finish with Sweetness:

8. Dust with Powdered Sugar: Allow the cookies to cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack. While still warm, dust the cookies generously with powdered sugar. The warmth of the cookies will help the sugar adhere.

Serve and Enjoy:

9. Presentation: Arrange the Ghoriba Bahla on a serving platter and watch as these Moroccan shortbread cookies disappear with every delightful bite.
10. Pairing Suggestion: Enjoy these sweet treats with a cup of Moroccan mint tea for a truly authentic experience.

Conclusion:

Ghoriba Bahla is a testament to the exquisite flavors of Moroccan desserts. With a perfect blend of almond richness and the subtle warmth of spices, these shortbread cookies are a delightful addition to any occasion. Share them with loved ones and let the taste of Morocco elevate your culinary adventures.

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