Rfissa Recipe
Ingredients:
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For the Chicken:
- 1 large chicken, cut into pieces
- 2 onions, finely chopped
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon ginger powder
- 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup cilantro and parsley, combined and chopped
- 4 cups water or chicken broth
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For the Lentils:
- 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
- 2 teaspoons fenugreek seeds (optional but traditional)
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For Serving:
- 4-6 msemen (Moroccan flatbread) or trid, shredded into pieces
- Additional chopped cilantro and parsley for garnish
Instructions:
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Prepare the Chicken:
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic, sautéing until they start to soften.
- Add the chicken pieces, turmeric, ginger, saffron, coriander, cumin, salt, and pepper. Brown the chicken slightly on all sides.
- Add the chopped cilantro and parsley, along with the water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for about 45 minutes, or until the chicken is tender.
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Cook the Lentils:
- While the chicken is cooking, in a separate pot, boil the lentils with the fenugreek seeds in water until tender, about 20-30 minutes. Drain any excess water and set aside.
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Combine and Serve:
- Once the chicken is cooked and tender, add the cooked lentils to the chicken pot, mixing gently to combine.
- On a large serving platter, spread the shredded msemen or trid pieces. Pour the chicken and lentil mixture over the bread, making sure to cover it evenly.
- Garnish with additional chopped cilantro and parsley.
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Serving Suggestions:
- Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes before serving to let the bread soak up the flavorful sauce.
- Serve hot as a hearty and comforting meal, perfect for gatherings and special occasions.
Rfissa is a celebration of Moroccan cuisine's depth, with its rich combination of spices, herbs, and seasoning creating a truly unique and satisfying dish. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of textures and flavors, making it a memorable meal for any who try it.