Chicken pastilla, known as “bastilla” or “b’stilla” in Moroccan Arabic, is a dish that epitomizes the rich culinary heritage of Morocco. This exquisite savory pie, featuring a delicate balance of sweet and savory flavors, has deep cultural roots and is often reserved for special occasions such as weddings, holidays, and other celebrations.
History and Cultural Significance
The history of pastilla dates back centuries, reflecting Morocco’s diverse cultural influences, including Arab, Berber, Andalusian, and French culinary traditions. Originally, pastilla was a dish enjoyed by the wealthy and nobility, characterized by its intricate preparation and luxurious ingredients such as pigeon or other game birds. Over time, chicken became a more accessible and popular alternative, making pastilla a dish enjoyed by a broader segment of Moroccan society.
Ingredients
To create a traditional chicken pastilla, you will need:
- 1 medium chicken, boiled and shredded
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup roasted and ground almonds
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh coriander (cilantro)
- 2 teaspoons ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 8-10 sheets of phyllo dough
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup ground cinnamon (for dusting)
Preparation
1. Cooking the Chicken Filling
- Prepare the Chicken: Start by boiling the chicken until tender, then shred the meat into fine pieces.
- Saute the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until they turn translucent and aromatic.
- Season the Chicken: Add the shredded chicken to the pot, along with ground ginger, cinnamon, turmeric, black pepper, and salt. Stir well to coat the chicken evenly with the spices.
- Add the Nuts and Herbs: Mix in the roasted and ground almonds, chopped parsley, and coriander. These ingredients add depth and texture to the filling, enhancing the flavors of the dish.
- Simmer and Blend Flavors: Allow the mixture to simmer gently for about 10-15 minutes, ensuring the flavors meld together beautifully. Adjust seasoning to taste if needed.
2. Assembling the Pastilla
- Prepare the Phyllo Dough: Lay out the phyllo dough sheets on a clean, flat surface. Brush each sheet generously with melted butter, which adds richness and helps the layers crisp up during baking.
- Layer the Filling: Place a generous spoonful of the chicken filling in the center of each phyllo sheet. Fold the edges over the filling to create a neat square or triangular shape, ensuring the filling is well enclosed.
- Build the Layers: Continue layering the filled phyllo sheets on top of each other, creating a multi-layered pastry. Each layer adds to the complexity and texture of the pastilla.
3. Baking and Serving
- Preheat and Bake: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the assembled pastilla on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the phyllo dough turns golden brown and crisp.
- Final Touches: Once baked, remove the pastilla from the oven and let it cool slightly. Before serving, dust the top generously with a mixture of powdered sugar and ground cinnamon. This final touch adds a subtle sweetness and a visually appealing finish to the dish.
Variations and Regional Influences
While chicken pastilla is a classic rendition, variations exist across Morocco and beyond. In some regions, seafood such as fish or shrimp may replace chicken, offering a lighter yet equally flavorful option. Vegetarian versions often feature a filling of spiced vegetables, nuts, and sometimes scrambled eggs, catering to dietary preferences and enhancing the dish’s versatility.
Serving Tradition and Etiquette
Traditionally, pastilla is served as a communal dish, often placed at the center of the table for sharing among family and guests. It is typically enjoyed as a main course during festive gatherings, accompanied by Moroccan mint tea, a staple beverage that complements the dish’s flavors.
Conclusion
In conclusion, chicken pastilla stands as a testament to Morocco’s culinary artistry and cultural heritage. From its origins as a noble delicacy to its adaptation into various forms across the country, pastilla continues to captivate palates with its harmonious blend of sweet and savory notes, intricate textures, and symbolic significance in Moroccan celebrations.
Whether prepared for a special occasion or as a showcase of culinary skill, chicken pastilla invites you to savor the flavors and traditions of Morocco, bringing a taste of North African hospitality and gastronomy to your table.