Mbesses

Mbesses is a shortbread semolina flatbread. This pan-cooked version is slightly sweet, without dates or a honey bath.

Ingredients

• 500 g medium durum wheat semolina
• 170 g unsalted butter
• 170 ml water
• 25 g sugar
• 3 g salt

Preparation

Mix semolina, sugar, and salt. Pour in the melted butter and rub to obtain a homogeneous sandy texture.

Let rest for 20 minutes so that the fat is distributed throughout the grains.

Add the water gradually and bring the dough together without kneading it like bread. Stop as soon as it holds together.

Roll out to 1.5 cm thick and cut into sixteen diamonds or squares. Move them with a wide spatula.

Cook in a thick pan over low to moderate heat for 5 to 7 minutes per side. The pieces should be golden and cooked through in the center. Let cool slightly for the texture to stabilize.