Cooking to De-Stress

Moroccan Harsha (Harcha)- Moroccan Semolina Flatbread

2013-09-01T21:10:00.003-04:00

Harsha (Harcha) means "rough or coarse" in Moroccan Darija . It is a traditional Moroccan pan-cooked flatbread made with fine semolina . It is often considered the Moroccan version of an English muffin, but its taste and texture are similar to cornbread if not better.

Harsha is typically served during Ramadan and occasionally for breakfast or an afternoon snack accompanied with moroccan mint tea. Harsha is served hot with butter and honey, or cheese, jam, chocolate (Nutella), eggs, almond butter, etc.

What You Need:

2 cups fine semolina

2 Tbsp sugar

1/4 tsp salt

2 tsp baking powder

1/4 tsp instant yeast

1/4 cup vegetable or canola oil

3/4 cup warm water

What To Do:

1. In a large bowl, mix all dry ingredients. Add oil and combine well until mixture is crumbly and grainy.

2. Add water, mix until a cohesive and a very moist dough is formed.

VERY IMPORTANT: Harsha dough does not require kneading. All the ingredients are mixed well to form a wet ball.

3. Allow the dough to rest for 15-30 min to absorb the liquids.

4. Heat a non-stick pan or skillet over medium heat. Sprinkle a working surface with semolina, flatten the dough with hands to form a thick big disc (3 inches in diameter).

5. Cut circles using a big cup, small bowl, or a big circular cookie cutter.

6. Cook the Harsha over a medium heat on both sides. About 4 min per side.

7. Serve hot with honey, butter, jam, cheese, and a hot cup of Moroccan Mint tea or coffee.

Moroccan Green Peas with Eggs Tajine

2013-04-01T21:48:00.001-04:00

This is a very easy and flavorful side dish that will make you fall in love with green peas.

What You Need:

1 large onion, finely diced

16 oz. frozen peas, thawed

3 garlic cloves, crushed

1 cup fresh chopped parsley

4 eggs

5 tbsp olive oil

1 1/2 cup vegetable stock or water

1 tsp salt

1 tsp black pepper

1tsp cumin

1 tsp paprika

1 tsp ginger powder

1 tsp turmeric

1 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)

Pinch of saffron (optional)

What To Do:

1. Heat the olive oil in a tajine or a large shallow saucepan. Add the onions and the garlic, sautee for 1-2 minutes over medium heat.

2. Stir in the peas, half of the parsley, and cook for 5 minutes.

3. Add the vegetable stock or water, cover and let simmer over medium-high heat for 10 minutes or until tender.

4. When the mixture is thick (to your liking), break the eggs over it.

5. Reduce the heat and cook for 3 minutes or until eggs are cooked. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley. Serve in the pan with bread or rice.

Bon Appetit!

Cumin Kefta (Meatballs)

2011-04-30T11:57:00.004-04:00

Have you ever had one of those days when you open the fridge or the pantry and just stare trying to figure out what to make for dinner? Well, stare no more, this is a super easy and delicious meal that you can whip out in less than 20 min.

What You Need:

1 lb. lean ground beef
1/4 cup chopped parsley
4 garlic cloves, crushed
1 egg
1 tsp cumin
1/2 tsp all spice
1/2 tsp. onion powder
1/2 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp. cayenne pepper (optional)
1 Tbsp breadcrumbs
salt and pepper to taste
2 cans tomato sauce

What To Do:

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, garlic, egg, parsley, bread crumbs, and all the spice. Mix well.
Shape into finger-shaped or round meatballs. Set aside.
Heat oil in a skillet on medium-high heat. Add the meatballs and brown them on both sides. (Better to work in batches so meat could brown properly).
In a large saucepan, add the tomato sauce, same amount of spices used in the meatballs mixture. Let simmer for 5 min.
Add the browned meatballs and cook for 7-10 min.
Serve with cooked pasta, white rice, bulgur, or crusty French bread.

Publish Post

Enjoy!

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"La3dass"- Moroccan Lentils Stew

2010-12-27T14:46:00.004-05:00

This is a very simple, delicious, and nutritious dish that will surely warm you up this winter. It can be served as a meal on its own with chunky crusty bread to mop up the thick sauce.

What You Need:

1 16oz Dried lentils package
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 tomatoes, diced
2 Tbsp chopped cilantro
3 garlic gloves, crushed or chopped
1 Tbsp tomatoes paste
2 Tbsp Olive oil
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp ginger powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (for spicier sauce, use 1/2 tsp)
1/2 tsp cumin
Pinch of Saffron
1 cup water

What To Do:

Heat olive oil in a large saucepan, add onions, garlic, lentils, all the spices, and sautee for 5 min. Add the tomatoes,tomato paste, chopped cilantro, and cook for an additional 5 min.
Cover with water. Cook covered on high medium heat for 40-45 min or until lentils are tender. Check on the water level frequently. (If using a pressure cooker, cook on low-medium heat for 30 min).
Sprinkle with chopped cilantro and serve immediately with bread.

Enjoy!!

Maakouda- Moroccan Potato Patties

2010-12-25T15:35:00.000-05:00

Maakouda(Moroccan potato fritters) is a very popular street food in Morocco. The potatoes are mashed and well seasoned with Moroccan spices, parsley, and onions. They can be served as an appetizer, side dish, or in a sandwich with tomatoes, lettuce, and onions.

What you Need:

4 medium potatoes
1/4 cup fresh cilantro,finely chopped
4 garlic, pressed or minced
1 egg
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp black pepper (or more)
1/2 tsp cayenne (optional)
1 tsp salt

Flour
2 eggs lightly beaten
oil for frying

What To Do:

Making the potatoes Mixture: Peel and cut the potatoes in quarters and boil them until they are soft.
Drain and mash them well with cilantro, egg, garlic, spices.
Shape the potato mixture into cakes about 3" in diameter.
Frying the potato cakes: Heat oil in a skillet, dip each pattie in the eggs, then in the flour (removing any excess), then fry in hot oil until deep golden brown- about 8 to 9 min per side.
Serve the Maakouda warm.

Enjoy!

Peanut Butter and Jam Cookies

2010-10-24T19:13:00.004-04:00

These cookies are to die for!! They are easy to make and will surely satisfy your sweet tooth even if you don't like peanut better.

Adapted From Peanut Butter Cookies with Blackberry Jam

What You Need:

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder ( I used Nestle's)
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/8 teaspoon fine sea salt
1 stick (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, at room temperature, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
3/4 cup creamy peanut butter, at room temperature
3/4 cup sugar, plus 1/4 cup
1/2 packed cup light brown sugar
1 egg, room temperature, beaten
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1/4 cup strawberry jam (or blackberry)

What To Do:

Put an oven rack in the center of the oven. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper. Set aside.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
With an electric mixer, or by hand (what I did), mix the butter, peanut butter, 3/4 cup of sugar, and light brown sugar together until smooth.
Add the egg and vanilla extract and mix until blended. Add dry ingredients & beat at low speed just until combined.
Put the remaining 1/4 cup of sugar in a small bowl. Form the dough into 1/4 cup-size balls and roll in the sugar. Arrange 5 balls of dough, evenly apart, on each baking sheet. Using a round 1/4 teaspoon measure, or the thin end of a wooden spoon, make a hole in the center of each ball of dough, about 1/2 to 3/4-inch deep. Spoon 1 teaspoon of jam into each hole.
Bake for 11 to 14 minutes until the dough has spread and the surface of the cookies are crackled. Cool for 5 minutes and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely, about 20 minutes. Arrange the cookies on a serving dish and serve.

Enjoy!!

Namoura- Sweet Semolina Cake (Recipe 2)

2010-08-22T02:46:00.009-04:00

Namoura is a sweet, savory semolina cake often called Basbousa in some regions of the Middle East. This cake is moist and scrumptious and will surely satisfy your sweet tooth.

I have previously shared a Basbousa Recipe and I am back with another Namoura/Basbousa recipe that was also successful. I just want to remind you all that the quality of the semolina makes a huge difference in taste and texture. So make sure you get the semolina that's made from durum wheat (yellow in color) and not from rice. Unlike the first Basbousa recipe, this Namoura recipe calls for two types of semolina: coarse and fine, which are both available in local Arabic stores or at Whole Foods.

Recipe adapted from DedeMed

What You Need:

1/2 cup fine semolina
2 cups coarse semolina
1/2 cup flour
1 Tbsp baking powder
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 packet or 2 tsp dry active yeast
1/4 tsp sugar
1 Tbsp water
1/2 cup yogurt ( I used vanilla flavor)
1 cup milk
1 cup melted sweet butter
1/2 cups almonds or pistachios for garnishing
2 1/2 cup syrup

Syrup Recipe:

2 cups sugar
1 cup water
juice of 1/2 of a lemon
1 Tbsp rose water or orange blossom water

Combine sugar, water and lemon juice in a pot and let simmer over medium heat for 20 minutes then add the rose water and simmer for another 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool completely before serving.

What To Do:

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the first 5 dry ingredients. In another bowl combine the yeast, water and 1/4 tsp sugar and let it sit for 10 minutes.
Mix the yogurt and milk until well combined. Add the melted butter to the dry ingredients and stir, slowly add the rest of the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients.
Stir well until all ingredients are well combined.
Spray a 9x13 baking pan with cooking spray, then pour in the cake mixture. The mixture should be a bit heavy.
Smooth out the top of the cake. Decorate with almonds or pistachios or any nut of your choice.
Bake for 50 min to an hour until the top is dark golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Remove the cake form the oven and poke small holes in the top with a knife so that the cake absorbs the syrup. Pour about 1 1/2 cup room temperature syrup on top of the cake, let it absorb then pour over the rest of the syrup(remaining 1 cup) and let the cake sit until completely cooled then serve.

Enjoy!!

Moroccan Potato Spring Rolls

2010-07-11T18:37:00.000-04:00

This spring roll recipe is easy to make, deliciously seasoned and infused with Moroccan spices. It makes a great appetizer or a side dish. Usually, tuna is added to the mixture, but since I am not a big fan, I just used potatoes.

What You Need:

2 medium potatoes, diced
3 cloves garlic crushed
2 Tbsp shredded cheese
1/4 cup freshly chopped parsley
1 tsp hot chilli sauce (optional)
salt & pepper to taste
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp butter
Egg wash (1 egg mixed with 1 Tbsp water)
Spring Roll pastry
Oil for Frying

What To Do:

Boil the potatoes in salted water for 20 min. Drain.
In a big bowl, add the potatoes, cheese, garlic, parsley, butter, hot chilli sauce, and the rest of the spices. Mash and mix well until all ingredients are incorporated.
Gently pull out each spring roll sheet from the package, lay it flat on a cutting board. Spoon some of the potatoes mixture and put on 1/3 of the spring roll.
Fold both sides of the wrapper to the center. Roll tight and seal the end with egg wash. Click here for how to roll the pastry.
Heat oil in a large skillet, deep fry the spring rolls until olden brown. Drain on a paper towel and serve on a bed of lettuce.
You can bake the rolls instead. Brush them with melted butter and bake them in a 400 degrees oven for about 10 min or until golden brown.

Enjoy!

Mexican Pizza

2010-07-06T16:52:00.004-04:00

Anyone who knows me knows that I LOVE (major understatment) Mexican food. I try my best to make Mexican dishes at home, at least I control the calories. This Mexican Pizza is delicious, very filling, easy and super fun to make. You can adjust the ingredients to your liking and you can choose your toppings.

Recipe Adapted from Delicious Meliscious

What You Need:

1/2 lb ground beef
1 onion, chopped
1 jalapeno, diced (optional)
1 package taco seasoning
1/4 cup water
4 wheat tortillas
cooking spray
1/2 red onion, chopped
1/2 green bell pepper, diced
1/2 can (8 ounces) refried beans
1 cup diced tomatoes
1/2 cup taco or enchilada sauce
1 cup shredded cheese
sliced olives, optional

What To Do:

Over medium heat, cook the ground beef until brown, drain. Return to the heat and add the onion & pepper, taco seasoning and water. Continue to cook for several minutes, until cooked through, stirring often.
Spray both sides of each tortilla with cooking spray and place directly on the middle rack of your oven. Bake for about 6 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown and crispy. Watch carefully so they do not burn. Remove to a baking sheet.
Microwave the refried beans for 1-2 min or until spreadable.
Lay 2 tortillas out on a baking sheet; top each with a spoonful of the beans, ground beef, and 1/4 cup cheese. Top with another tortilla and lightly press down.
Top the second tortillas each with 1/4 cup taco or enchilada sauce. Layer with diced tomatoes, cheese, red onions, green bell pepper, and a few green olives.
Bake for 5-10 minutes or until cheese is melted. Cut into wedges and top with sour cream and/or salsa if desired.

Enjoy!!

Lamb Tajine with Caramelized Apples

2010-06-20T16:44:00.000-04:00

Yesterday, I hardly had any vegetables except for fruits. So I had to work with what I've got- Apples- and try making a caramelized apples lamb tajine. I was thoroughly satisfied with the results. This tajine is a perfect blend of salty lamb and sweet fruits. I served it with crusty bread to mop up the thick syrupy sauce, but it can be served on a bed of fluffly couscous or rice.

What You Need:

1 pound lamb (cut into bite sized pieces)
3 Tbsp olive oil
2 onions finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, chopped
1 tsp ground turmeric
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp ground ginger
1 tsp salt
1 tsp pepper
1 large pinch of saffron
1-2 cups beef stock or warm water

Ingredients for the Apples:

3 medium apples (any kind), peeled and quartered. DO NOT throw away the skin, we will use it for garnishing.
1/4 cup sugar
1 Tbsp cinnamon
2 Tbsp butter

What To Do:

In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions, garlic, meat, and all the spices. Mix well. Cover the pan and let the meat cook for 8-10 min or until thoroughly brown.
Pour enough warm water or beef stock (about (2 cups) to cover the meat. Cover the pan and simmer gently for 1 hour or until meat is tender. Check on the level of sauce from time to time. Add some more water if necessary.

Preparing the Apples:

In another pan, add the butter, apples, cinnamon, sugar, and cover with some of the meat sauce. Cook on medium heat for 20 min or until apples are tender.
In a pan, drizzle oil and fry the apples skins until golden. Drain excess oil.

After the meat is cooked and apples are caramelized, serve the meat and apples garnished with the apple skins.

Enjoy!

Carrots with Charmoula (Zaalook Style)

2010-05-16T17:20:00.003-04:00

The perfect side dish to chicken, fish, or any other main dish you make. This was a hit at my last dinner party even though there were numerous side dishes on the table. Not only this carrot dish is full of flavor, but also colorful and easily prepared. It can be served warm or cold.

What You Need:

5 medium size carrots
3 garlic cloves
1/4 cup of chopped parsley
3 Tbsp of olive oil
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp cumin
1 tsp paprika

What To Do:

Peel the carrots and cut them in little cubes.
In boiling water, add the carrots and the 3 garlic cloves. Let them cook for 15-20 minutes.
Drain the carrots and garlic from the water.
Heat oil in a pan, add the carrots with the garlic, the parsley and the spices.
Mash the carrots while they are cooking, for about 15 min.
Sprinkle with parsley and serve warm or cold.

Enjoy!

Carrot Cake

2010-04-09T13:54:00.006-04:00

Yep, I baked another cake and it came out simply p-e-r-f-e-c-t! I think I am regaining confidence in my ability to bake:) This delicious and moist carrot cake was easy, super simple to make and I definitely surprised and impressed my in-laws with it. They thought it was store bought, Ha!!!!

Recipe courtesy of sousoukitchen

What you Need:

1 cup sugar
1 cup brown sugar
1 cup canola oil
1 tsp vanilla extract
4 eggs
2 cups all purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp salt
1 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp ground spice mixture (fennel, anise, nutmeg)
3 cups finely shredded carrots
1 cup roasted and chopped nuts of your choice ( I used walnuts)

1 recipe Vanilla Cream Cheese Frosting (See Below)

What To Do:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
Grease and flour a baking pan ( I used a tube pan); set aside.
In large bowl, mix together sugars, oil, vanilla extract, and eggs until well blended.
In another bowl, mix flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and the other spices until combined.
Add the dry mixture to the sugar and eggs mixture and mix well until you get a smooth consistency. Add carrots and nuts (save some for decorating). Mix until well combined.
With rubber spatula, scrape batter into prepared pan.
Bake 50 to 55 min or until a wooden pick inserted near center comes out clean.
Cool in pan, turn out on wire rack. Spread with the Vanilla Cream Cheese frosting. And decorate with the remaining roasted nuts.

Vanilla Cream Cheese Frosting:

In a medium bowl, sir together 8 ounces cream cheese, softened; 1 tsp milk, 1 tsp vanilla extract, a dash of salt. Add 2 1/2 cups powdered sugar gradually to the mixture until smooth.

Enjoy!!!

Banana Chocolate Chip Cake

2010-03-31T13:47:00.008-04:00

I know I have mentioned this before, but I will say it again- I don't bake, people!!! I only make banana bread which always, thank goodness, comes out great!! When I first saw this cake recipe, I was eager to try it since it has ingredients I am very familiar with and it's a different version of Banana bread. This cake is very simple, moist, and delicious. I didn't decorate it, just left it as is since it was full of banana flavor and melted chocolate chips.

What You Need:

1 1/2 c. all-purpose flour
3/4 c. brown sugar
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/4 cup oil
1 1/2 cup mashed bananas (about 4 ripe bananas)
2 large eggs
1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
1 cup chocolate chips

What To Do:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
Prepare an 9 inch cake pan
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt and set aside.
In large bowl, mix together butter, oil, sugar, mashed bananas, eggs, and vanilla.
Add flour mixture and fold until just combined (do not over mix).
Fold in chocolate chips.
Scrape batter into prepared pan and place into preheated oven.
Bake until a toothpick inserted in center of the cake comes out clean, about 45-55 minutes.
Remove from oven and let cool in pan.

Bon Appetit!

Enjoy!!

Loubia - Moroccan White Beans with Beef

2010-03-30T14:43:00.009-04:00

This dish is simple, delicious, and very popular during the winter in Morocco. I made it with meat but it can be made without and will be as delish! Thick and hearty, Loubia can be served as a meal on its own with chunky crusty bread to mop up the thick sauce.

What You Need:

1 16oz Goya Medium dry white beans package, or any other brand, soaked overnight in salty water
1/2 lbs beef chunks (optional)
2 tomatoes, diced
1 onion, diced
2 Tbsp chopped cilantro
3 garlic gloves, crushed or chopped
1 Tbsp tomatoes paste
2 Tbsp Olive oil
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp ginger powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (for spicier sauce, use 1/2 tsp)
1/2 tsp cumin
Pinch of Saffron
1 cup water

What To Do:

Heat olive oil in a large saucepan, add meat, onions, garlic, all the spices, and sautee for 5 min. Add the tomatoes,tomato paste, chopped cilantro, and cook for an additional 10 min.
Stir in the white beans and cover with water. Cook covered for 30-35 min or until beans and meat are tender. Check on the water level frequently. (If using a pressure cooker, cook on low-medium heat for 20 min).
Sprinkle with chopped cilantro and serve immediately with bread.

Enjoy!

Porcupine Meatballs (a La Marocaine) with Garlic Mashed Potatoes

2010-02-26T17:57:00.006-05:00

I first tried porcupine meatballs at one of my friend's house and I liked it so much that I wanted to try making it myself and maybe adding an itty bitty Moroccan twist to the recipe.

Porcupine Meatballs

What You Need:

1 lb. of lean ground beef
1 small onion, diced
1/4 cup chopped parsley
2 garlic cloves, crushed
1 egg
1/2 cup uncooked rice
1/2 tsp. garlic powder
1/2 tsp. onion powder
1/2 tsp. cumin
1/2 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp. cayenne pepper (optional)
salt and pepper to taste
2 Tbsp. Olive oil
1 can of tomato sauce
1 can of diced tomatoes
water or beef broth
1/2 cup cheddar cheese for garnishing

What To Do:

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, onion, rice, egg, parsley, and all the spice. Mix well.
Shape into medium-sized meatballs. Set aside.
Heat oil in a skillet on medium-high heat. Add the meatballs and brown them on both sides. (Better to work in batches so meat could brown properly).
In a baking pan, place the browned meatballs and cover with diced tomatoes, tomatoes sauce and 1/2 cup water or beef broth.
Bake in a 350 degrees preheated oven for 55 minutes until meatballs are tender and sauce is reduced.
In the last 10 min, sprinkle with the cheddar cheese and return to oven until cheese is melted.

Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes

What You Need:

4 big russet potatoes
4 garlic cloves, crushed
3/4 cup heavy cream, or half and half
1/4 Parmesan cheese
1 Tsp salt

What To Do:

Peel and dice potatoes (all same size so it cooks evenly). Place in a large saucepan, add salt, and cover with water. Bring to a boil and cook the potatoes for about 25 min or until they fall apart when poked with a fork.
Heat the heavy cream and the garlic in a medium saucepan until simmering. Remove from heat and set aside.
Remove the potatoes from heat and drain off the water. Mash well and add the garlic and cream mixture and Parmesan cheese. Stir well to combine.
Let stand for 5 minutes so that mixture thickens and then serve.

Enjoy!

Cinnamon-Spice Chocolate Brownies

2010-01-12T15:37:00.005-05:00

This is a low-fat, low calorie brownie recipe that is healthy and as delicious as any other brownie recipe out there.

What You Need:

1/4 cup butter

1 cup granulated sugar

1/3 cup cold water

3 eggs

3 Tbsp. canola oil

1 tsp. vanilla extract

1 1/4 cups all purpose flour

1/2 cup unsweetned cocoa powder

1 tsp. baking powder

1/4 tsp. groud cinnamon

1/8 tsp. salt

1/8 tsp. ground chile pepper or cayenne pepper

1/3 cup semisweet chocolate pieces

2 Tbsp. hot strong coffee (optional)

Powedered sugar and/or cinnamon sugar for garnishing

What To Do:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line 9x9x2 inch baking pan with foil, extending foil up over edges of pan. Lightly coat the foil with a nonstick spray. Set Aside.
In a medium saucepan melt butter; remove from heat. Whisk in sugar and water. Whisk in eggs, oil, and vanilla until combined. Stir in cocoa powder, baking powder, cinnamon, salt, cayenne pepper. Stir in chocolate pieces. Pour batter into prepared pan.
Bake for 23 to 25 minutes or until a wooden toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. Cool in pan or wire rack for 10 minutes. Remove from pan by lifting up the foil. If desired, brush hot brownies with coffee. Cool completely.
Cut into bars. Sprinkle with powedered sugar and/or cinnamon sugar.

Makes 16 brownies.

Enjoy!

Bulgur Pilaf

2009-10-10T12:08:00.004-04:00

Bulgur is a quick and easy cooking form of whole wheat that has been cleaned, parboiled and dried. It comes in three different textures: coarse, medium, or fine and it is used instead of brown rice and couscous for it has more and higher nutritional value (high in fiber and protein, low in fat and calories). Bulgur is used in pilafs (this recipe), salads(Lebanese Tabouleh), stuffing or casseroles (Indian cuisines).

What You'll Need:

1 1/2 cup coarse bulgur, rinced and drained
1 medium onion,diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
2 tomatoes seeded and diced
1/2 cup cooked (can) green peas
2 Tbsp olive oil
1 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
1/2 tsp cumin
1 Tbsp tomato paste
1 garlic clove, minced

What To Do:

In a medium shallow pan, heat olive oil over medium high heat, add onions, garlic and sautee until lightly brown.
Add green peppers, tomatoes, tomato paste, all the spices, and sautee for an additional 7-8 min.
Add bulgur and green peas, stir well to combine.
Pour the broth and cook covered until most of the liquid is absorbed, about 20-25 min.
Simmer on low heat, until liquid has evaporated and bulgur is soft.

Enjoy!!

Banana Bread

2009-09-19T12:32:00.005-04:00

I don't bake that often, but when I do, this banana bread recipe is my FAVORITE to make and eat:). It's smooth, soft, sweet, and certainly delish!

What You'll Need:

3/4 cup whole wheat flour

1/2 cup all purpose flour

1/2 tsp salt

1/2 tsp baking soda

1/4 tsp baking powder

1/2 tsp cinnamon

1/2 cup packed brown sugar

1/4 cup canola oil

2 large egg whites

1 1/2 cups banana puree (mashed ripe bananas)

1 tsp vanilla extract

1 tsp almond extract (optional)

What to Do:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease and flour 9x5x3 loaf pan
In a large bowl, combine the dry ingredients: flours, salt, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon. Set a side
In a seperate bowl, mix brown sugar with oil until smooth; making sure there are no lumps. Add the mixture to the dry ingredients
In a blender, combine banana puree, vanilal extract, egg whites, almond extract until thoroughly blended
Fold banana mixture into dry ingredients and brown sugar mixture, until well combined
Spread batter into pan and bake for 55-60 min.

Enjoy!

Basbousa -Sweet Semolina Cake: Ramadan Special

2009-09-08T14:56:00.001-04:00

Basboussa is a Middle Eastern delicacy. It is an amazing cake; it's moist, sweet, delicately perfumed and has a grainy texture. I have tried this cake at different Middle Eastern restaurants and I was so eager to make it myself. After two failed attempts, my dear friend Kenza came to the rescue and shared with me her Basbousa recipe, which I am , in turn, sharing with you. It is, of course, super easy and exquisitely delicious. This cake could be served with tea or coffee.

Courtesy of Kenza

What Wou'll Need:

1 1/2 cups Semolina
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup sweetned coconut flakes
1/4 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp baking powder
1/4 cup melted butter (cooled to room temperature)
1 cup milk
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups almonds or pistachios for garnishing

For the Syrup:

1 cup water
1 cup sugar
2 Tbsp orange juice
1 Tbsp vanilla extract

What To Do:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees
Combine all ingredients in a large bowl (Mixture should be "liquidy")
Spary a 13x9 inch pan pan with cooking spray, pour in the mixture
Let rise for 45-55 min
Sprinkle with almonds and Bake for 50 min or until brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean
Meanwhile make sugar syrup: Combine water, sugar, and lemon juice in a saucepan
Bring to a boil, add in vanilla extract, and let it simmer for 20 min
Pour hot sugar syrup over cake while is hot and let it absorb. You may put it back in the oven for 3 min

Enjoy!

Harira- Ramadan Special

2009-08-14T15:38:00.010-04:00

With Ramadan around the corner, I'd like to share my Harira recipe with you all. This traditional soup is a must in every Moroccan house to break the fast during Ramadan. It is usually served with dates, figs, and Chabakkiya (Moroccan sweets).

Ramadan Mubarak!

What You'll Need:
1 lb lamb cut into cubes or beef stew
3 Tbsp Olive Oil
1 large onion, diced
1/2 cup celery, diced
2 16 oz cans diced tomatoes
2 Tbsp tomato paste
4 1/2 cups water
1/2 cup finely chopped parsley and cilantro
1/3 cup lentils
16 oz can garbanzo beans (chickpeas)
1/2 cup vermicelli or angel hair noodles broken into 3 inches pieces
1/3 cup of flour
1 egg beaten with juice of 1/2 lemon

Spices-
1 tsp turmeric poweder
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp ginger powder
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp cumin
Large pinch of safron
salt to taste
1 cube chicken or beef bouillon

What To Do:

In large soup pot, heat oil over medium heat, add meat, onions, celery, parsley/cilantro, lentils, all spices and stir for 5 min.
Add water, cover and let cook for 45 min. If using a pressure cooker, cook for 15 min.
Meanwhile, in a blender, mix the tomatoes, tomato paste, and 1/2 cup of water. Set a side. Dilute the flour in some water- you should get a "liquidy" mixture not a flour paste.
After the 45 min, add the tomatoes mixture to the soup, stir and let simmer for 5-7 min.
Add the chickpeas and the vermicelli.
Slowly stir in the flour mixture. The flour will make the soup a bit thick. If you like your soup lighter, don't pour the entire mixture, maybe just half.
With the soup at a steady simmer, stir slowly the egg/lemon mixture to create long egg strands and to thicken the soup 5-7 min.
Ladle soup into bowl and serve with dates or figs.

Enjoy!!

Cornish Hen Stuffed with Couscous

2009-08-03T20:08:00.012-04:00

If you want to impress your significant other, your in-laws, or simply friends and family, try this super delicious recipe. It looks so fancy that everybody would think you spent hours in the kitchen making it, yet it will only take you a total of 45 min. I promise:)

Recipe for two people-

What You'll Need:
For the Cornish Hens:
2 cornish hens
1 large onion, diced
3 Tbsp Olive Oil
2 cups chicken broth, or water
3 cinnamon sticks
Large pinch of saffron
3 garlic cloved, crushed
1 tsp turmeric powder
1 tsp ginger powder
1 tsp salt
1 tsp pepper

For the Stuffing:
1 box couscous
1 Tbsp butter
1 tsp cinnamon
2 tsp rose water
1/4 cup raisins, pre soaked in water for 10 min
1/4 cup toasted walnut or almonds, or hazelnut.

What To Do:

Wash the cornish hens thoroughly.
Prepare couscous according to package.
With a fork, fluff the couscous, and mix in the raisins, cinnamon, rose water, nuts (leave some for garnishing later) and butter.
Divide the couscous mixture in two halves. Use half to stuff the cornish hens and the other half as a side dish.
After stuffing the hens with the couscous mixture, sew the openings with a clean thread or toothpicks.

Cooking the Hens:

Heat oil in a large saucepan on medium heat, add the diced onions, garlic, and the rest of the spices. Stir for 2-3 min.
Place the hens, carefully, in the pan side by side. Cover and let cook for 5 min.
Flip the hens on the other side, add the broth, cover and cook for 30-35 min or until hens are done.
Make sure to check on the liquid level. We don't want to burn the hens.
After the hens are cooked, remove and broil them on low on both sides for more crispiness.
Uncover the sauce and let simmer for 2-3min.

Serving the Stuffed Cornish Hens:

The hens are served hot with the remaining couscous mixture as a side dish and garnished with the nuts.

Enjoy!

Seffa Medfouna with Couscous & Chicken

2009-07-25T10:30:00.003-04:00

Seffa Medfouna is one of my favorite Moroccan dishes. It is a festive dish and it combines all flavors; it is simply succulent and hearty. We call it "Seffa Medfouna" because the meat (chicken, beef, lamb) is buried or hidden with a dome of steamed vermicelli or couscous, which in turns is flavored with butter and dried raisins. This dish is served as a main dish.

What You'll Need:

For the Chicken Sauce-

1/2 lbs chicken, cut into pieces

1 big onion, finely chopped

1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped

2 garlic cloves, crushed

1/2 tsp turmeric powder

1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

2 cinnamon sticks

1/2 tsp ginger powder

1/2 tsp pepper (to taste)

1 tsp salt (to taste)

Large pinch of saffron (mandatory)

1 cube chicken bouillon (optional)

4 Tbsp vegetable or olive oil

1 1/2 cups water

1 large egg

For the Seffa-

1 plain couscous box

1/2 cup golden raisin, soaked in water for 10 min

3 Tbsp butter

Powdered sugar and cinnamon, for decorating

What To Do:

In a large pot over medium heat, heat oil, add chicken, garlic, onions, parsley, cinnamon sticks, and the rest of the spices. Brown the chicken for about 10 min, then cover the meat with enough water.
Cover the pot and let simmer on medium heat, stirring occasionally, for 45 min or until chicken is tender and falls easily off the bones.
Remove chicken, reduce heat, remove cinnamon sticks, and let the sauce simmer. Break the egg in the sauce, stirring constantly, the sauce should get thick.
Remove Chicken from the bones.
Cook couscous according to package instructions.
With a fork, fluff with butter. Add the raisins and 2 Tbsp powdered sugar.

Serving Seffa Medfouna-

Place 1/3 of couscous mixture in large plate.
Arrange the chicken mixture on top in an even layer, then cover with the sauce.
Pile the rest of the couscous on top, forming a dome.
Decorate in vertical patterns with cinnamon and powdered sugar.
Serve immediately.

Enjoy!!

Moroccan Couscous with Lamb and Vegetables

2009-07-24T11:30:00.013-04:00

Couscous is a famous traditional Moroccan dish, it is held in such high esteem that religious feasts and celebratory meals would be unthinkable without it. There is an endless list of couscous recipes, some of which include, couscous with meat and vegetables (today's recipe), couscous with Tfaya (sweet onion sauce), couscous salad, sweet couscous with dried fruits and nuts, or simply plain buttery couscous recipe.

What You'll Need:

1 plain couscous box
2 lbs shoulder of lamb cut into large pieces
3 Tbsp olive oil
2 large onions, diced
2 cups baby carrots, or 2 large carrots, peeled and sliced lengthwise
1 big zucchini cut lengthwise
1 butternut squash, cut into large pieces
1 turnip, peeled and cut into thick strips
1 potato or sweet potato, cut into wedges
1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
3 cups vegetables broth
5 cups water

1 can garbanzo bean, drained (not pictured)
1 12 oz can tomato sauce
1 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp turmeric
Large pinch of saffron
1 tsp paprika
1 Tbsp crushed garlic
1 Tbsp salt
1 1/2 Tbsp black pepper

What To Do:

On medium heat, heat oil in a large pot, add meat and brown on both sides for 2-3 min. Stir in onions, garlic, parsley, and the all the spices. Add vegetable broth, cover and bring to a boil, 10 min
Add carrots, potatoes, turnip, 2 cups of water and simmer for 20 min.
Add zucchini, butternut squash, tomato sauce, taste to adjust spices at this point. Pour 1 cup of water, cover and cook for an additional 20 min.
Lastly add garbanzo beans and simmer for 10 min.
Meat and vegetables are cooked when they are tender. If not, cook for 5-7 min.
Meanwhile, cook couscous according to package instructions.
Using a fork, fluff the couscous with 1 Tbsp butter.

Serving:

To serve couscous, place couscous in a large plate, form a whole in the middle of the couscous. Place meat in the hole and top with vegetables. Put sauce around sides of the platter. Serve guests additional sauce in small bowls.

Enjoy!!

Turkey & Cheese Quiche

2009-07-23T10:40:00.005-04:00

Quiches in general are a great way to get rid of leftovers, such as pasta, thanksgiving turkey, etc... This specific quiche is made with turkey and cheddar cheese, but you can experiment with any deli meat and cheese; either way, the results will still be the same. I usually serve this quiche for brunch or light lunch, accompanied with a tossed salad and mixed fresh fruits.

What You'll Need:

1 9 inch pie shell, thawed and unbaked
1 onion, finely chopped
3/4 cup smoked deli turkey, diced
3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
5 eggs
1/2 cup heavy cream
Salt & pepper to taste

What To Do:

Preheat oven to 375 degrees
In a skillet, sautee onion until golden, stir in diced turkey and cook for 2-3 min
Place the turkey and onion mixture into the bottom of the pie, creating one even layer
Sprinkle enough shredded cheese to cover the pie ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, cream, salt, and pepper until foamy for 3-5 min
Carefully and evenly pour this mixture into the pie.
Bake for 25-30 min until golden brown or until a knife inserted in center comes out clean.
Cut into wedges, serve warm or cold.

Enjoy!!

Mini Meatloaves

2009-07-06T18:59:00.006-04:00

What You'll Need:

1 pound ground beef
2 eggs
1/2 cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
1 yellow onion chopped
1 green pepper finely diced
2 garlic cloves minced or crushed
1 tsp red pepper flakes
1 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and Pepper to taste

What to Do:

Preheat oven to 400 degrees
in a large mixing bowl, combine meat, eggs, breadcrumbs, garlic, onions, peppers, and all the spices
Mix by hand for about five min or until mixture is well combined
Pack the mixture into the muffin cups until they are even with the top of the tin
Place on a baking sheet to catch the dripping
Reduce oven to 375 and bake meatloaves for 30 min or until top is browner and the juice runs clear
Add a little zip by topping the loaves with thin layer of ketchup, or barbecue sauce (pictured) prior to baking.

Enjoy!