Msemmen is a traditional North African flatbread, especially popular in Morocco, Algeria, and Tunisia. It’s a rich, buttery, square-shaped bread with flaky layers, often enjoyed at breakfast or tea time. The dough is soft and elastic, folded into multiple layers with oil and semolina to create its signature texture. Msemmen can be served plain with honey and butter, filled with savory mixtures like spiced onions, or even stuffed with meat. Its delicate, chewy interior and crisp, golden exterior make it a beloved comfort food in Maghrebi households.
Preparation Time
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Preparation: 25 minutes
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Resting: 30 minutes
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Cooking: 15–20 minutes
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Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Serving Size
Makes about 8 Msemmens.
Ingredients
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2 cups all-purpose flour
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1 cup fine semolina (plus extra for sprinkling)
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1 teaspoon salt
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1 teaspoon sugar (optional, for mild sweetness)
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1 ¼ cups warm water (adjust as needed)
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4 tablespoons vegetable oil (for dough and layering)
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4 tablespoons melted butter (for layering)
Detailed Recipe
Step 1 – Prepare the dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, semolina, salt, and sugar. Slowly add the warm water while mixing until the dough comes together. Knead for about 10 minutes until soft, smooth, and elastic.
Step 2 – Rest the dough
Divide the dough into 8 equal balls. Coat each ball lightly with oil to prevent drying, place them on a tray, and cover with plastic wrap or a damp cloth. Let them rest for 30 minutes to relax the gluten.
Step 3 – Shape the Msemmen
Lightly oil your work surface and hands. Take one dough ball and flatten it with your fingers into a thin circle or rectangle (as thin as possible without tearing). Brush the surface with a mixture of melted butter and oil, then sprinkle lightly with semolina.
Step 4 – Folding into layers
Fold one side toward the center, then the other side over it, creating a long strip. Fold the top and bottom of the strip into the center to form a small square. This folding technique creates flaky layers when cooked.
Step 5 – Rest again before cooking
Let the folded squares rest for about 5 minutes to prevent shrinking during cooking.
Step 6 – Cook the Msemmen
Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Gently flatten each folded square with your hands before placing it on the skillet. Cook for about 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown and crisp, flipping once.
Step 7 – Serve
Serve hot, either plain or drizzled with honey and butter. Msemmen can also be enjoyed with tea, coffee, or savory dips.
