Ingredients

chicken , filling
1 tablespoon oil
1 tablespoon clarified butter ( ghee )
2 garlic cloves , chopped
1 medium onion , diced
500 -600 g chicken thighs ( bone in or boneless )
2 tablespoons parsley
2 tablespoons coriander
1/2 teaspoon turmeric
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 pinch saffron
1 teaspoon salt
2 1/2 cups water
8 phyllo pastry sheets
almond filling
1 cup almonds , sliced
1/4 cup confectioners ' sugar ( icing )
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
egg , filling
2 teaspoons lemon juice
4 eggs
additional butter for pastry dough
almonds and confectioners ' sugar ( to garnish )
Basteeya (Pastilla) is a classic Moroccan dish which is highly regarded for its combination of sweet and savory flavors and unique textures. The dish is traditionally served during special occasions, holidays or at a family gathering, and is believed to have originated in the Moroccan royal kitchens. The dish is often made using chicken thighs, but can also be made with pigeon, or seafood. The almond and sweet egg flavors are a unique addition to the protein-packed and spice-laden chicken filling. The dish is loved for its crispy and flaky texture, thanks to the layers of delicate phyllo pastry and buttery goodness in every bite. Give your taste buds a tasty Moroccan treat with a bite of Basteeya (Pastilla) today!

Instructions

1.Cover chicken thighs with water in a saucepan, add chopped garlic, diced onions, parsley, coriander, turmeric, cinnamon, saffron and salt and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover and simmer for 30 minutes. Remove chicken from saucepan and chop, set aside.
2.To prepare the almond filling, mix sliced almonds, cinnamon and sugar in a bowl. Set aside.
3.For the egg filling, whisk eggs and lemon juice together until frothy.
4.Heat oil and clarified butter in a pan, add the reserved chicken and cook while stirring until browned. Add salt if needed and a little bit of water if the mixture gets too dry. Simmer for a few minutes until the filling is saucy.
5.Preheat the oven to 200°C/400°F and brush melted butter onto 4 sheets of phyllo pastry and then lay on top of each other. Put the pastry sheets into a round baking dish and gently press with hands. Arrange the remaining 4 phyllo pastry sheets on top.
6.Add the almond filling, then pour on the egg filling, and chicken filling over the pastry. Fold the edges and brush with melted butter. Meanwhile, beat the egg for the egg wash, and brush on top of the pastry.
7.Bake for 30 minutes until golden brown. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with sliced almonds and confectioners' sugar. Serve and enjoy!

PROS

Basteeya (Pastilla) is a delightful combination of sweet, savory, and crispy textures that will leave you craving more.

The delightful combination of chicken, almonds, and spices make it a flavorful dish.

Best served hot on a cold day or as a main course for special occasions.

CONS

Basteeya (Pastilla) is a calorie-dense dish, should be moderately consumed for those watching their calorie intake.

Phyllo pastry is time-consuming to work with and can easily break if not handled carefully.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Basteeya (Pastilla) is packed with wholesome ingredients like chicken, almonds, and spices such as cinnamon and turmeric which are highly beneficial to health. Almonds are high in healthy fats and protein while turmeric is known for its potent anti-inflammatory properties. Cinnamon helps regulate blood sugar and can improve gut health!

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