Algerian Msemen: Layered Flat Bread

Algerian Msemen: Layered Flat Bread

Introduction

Algerian Msemen is a delightful and traditional layered flatbread, renowned for its flaky texture and rich taste. Often enjoyed for breakfast or as a snack, it can be paired with honey, jam, or cheese for added flavor. This recipe brings out a unique no-knead method that allows you to achieve perfect elasticity and flakiness with minimal effort.

Ingredients

🥄 2 cups of Fine Semolina
💧 1 1/4 cups of Water
🟡 1 teaspoon Instant Yeast
🍬 1 tablespoon Sugar
🧂 1 teaspoon Salt
🌿 2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil
🌿 Additional Vegetable Oil
🌾 1/2 cup of All-Purpose Flour
💧 1 cup of Hot Water
📏 Pyrex Measuring Cups
🥄 Orange Plastic Measuring Spoons
🌐 Glad Kitchens Plastic Wrap

Instructions

1- Mix the Dough:

• In a clear glass mixing bowl, combine the semolina, room temperature water, yeast, sugar, salt, and 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil using a wooden-handled spatula with a clear plastic/silicone head.

2- Form the Dough:

• Mix until a rough dough forms.
• Gradually add the all-purpose flour, kneading by hand until the dough becomes slightly firm.

3- Rest the Dough:

• Pour the hot water over the dough, ensuring it is submerged.
• Cover with Glad Kitchens plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes.

4- Prepare Dough Balls:

• After resting, drain the excess water and lightly oil your hands and a rectangular Pyrex pan.
• Divide the dough into 8 even-sized balls and let them rest for 10 minutes.

5- Shape the Msemen:

• On a lightly oiled surface, flatten each dough ball into a thin circle, stretching until almost transparent.
• Fold it from both sides towards the center to form a square, oiling the top and stretching slightly for uniformity.

6- Cook the Msemen:

• Heat a T-Fal square griddle over medium heat and lightly oil it.
• Place msemen on the hot griddle, cooking for about 1 minute per side until golden brown with crispy spots.

7- Repeat:

• Continue the process with the remaining dough balls for a total of 8 msmen.

Prep Time: Active prep time is approximately 15 minutes, excluding resting
Cook Time: 2 minutes per msemen
Total Time: Around 47 minutes
Servings: 8 msmen
Equipment:

• Mixing Bowl: Clear glass
• Griddle: T-Fal square, non-stick
• Spatula: Black, non-stick safe
• Measuring Cups & Spoons: Pyrex, Orange plastic set

Cooking Tips

• Use the no-knead method to develop dough elasticity.
• Adjust flour quantity based on dough texture—aim for a firm but pliable consistency.
• Stretch the dough thinly to ensure proper layering.
• Oil hands and surfaces to prevent sticking and aid stretching.

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Algerian Msemen: Layered Flat Bread