Makoud vil Djedj

Makoud vil Djedj Recipe from Algeria - Delicious Potato and Chicken Casserole

Region / culture: Algeria | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 8

Introduction

Makoud vil Djedj is a delicious Algerian dish that features mashed potatoes stuffed with seasoned chicken and fried to perfection. This dish is packed with flavor and is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

History

Makoud vil Djedj has been a popular dish in Algerian cuisine for many years. It is a dish that is often enjoyed during special occasions and celebrations. The combination of mashed potatoes and seasoned chicken creates a unique and tasty dish that is loved by many.

Ingredients

2 lb (907 g) peeled potatoes
2 medium eggs, beaten
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
0.25 tsp salt
0.25 tsp turmeric
0.13 tsp cinnamon
6 sprigs parsley, finely chopped
0.5 lb (227 g) cooked and chopped chicken breast
0.13 tsp cinnamon
0.13 tsp pepper
0.5 cup flour, for dusting
oil, for frying

How to prepare

Cook the potatoes in water until they are soft, which should take about 15 minutes.
Drain the potatoes well and mash them.
Add the eggs, onion, garlic, salt, turmeric, cinnamon, and parsley to the mashed potatoes.
Mix everything together well.
In a separate bowl, combine the chicken, cinnamon, and pepper.
Set this mixture aside.
Spread flour on a cutting board.
Place the mashed potatoes on the board and flatten them into a log that is 3 inches wide, 2 inches deep, and 1 foot long.
Make a trench down the center of the log.
Put the chicken mixture into the trench, then pinch the trench shut to cover the chicken.
Cut the log into 8 round patties.
Dust the patties with flour.
Heat oil in a skillet and deep fry the patties until they turn golden brown.
Drain the patties and serve.
These can be served like hamburgers or enjoyed with a side dish.

Variations

You can add different seasonings to the chicken mixture for a unique flavor.
Try using ground beef or lamb instead of chicken for a different twist.
Add chopped vegetables to the mashed potatoes for added texture and flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to cook the potatoes until they are soft to ensure that they mash easily.

- Be sure to drain the potatoes well before mashing them to avoid a watery consistency.

- When frying the patties, make sure the oil is hot enough to ensure a crispy exterior.

- Serve the patties hot for the best flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Makoud vil Djedj can be served as a main dish with a side of salad or vegetables. It can also be enjoyed as a snack or appetizer.

Cooking Techniques

Boiling the potatoes until soft

- Mashing the potatoes

- Stuffing and shaping the patties

- Frying the patties until golden brown

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a different flavor.

- Use ground turkey or pork instead of chicken for a variation.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the mashed potatoes and chicken mixture ahead of time and assemble the patties just before frying.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Makoud vil Djedj on a platter with a garnish of fresh parsley or lemon wedges for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Makoud vil Djedj pairs well with a side of couscous, rice, or a fresh salad.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, place the patties in a preheated oven or toaster oven until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Makoud vil Djedj contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Makoud vil Djedj contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Makoud vil Djedj contains approximately 10 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Makoud vil Djedj contains approximately 15 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Makoud vil Djedj is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin B6, iron, and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains eggs and wheat (flour) which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Makoud vil Djedj is a balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious meal option.

Summary

Makoud vil Djedj is a flavorful and satisfying dish that is perfect for any occasion. With a crispy exterior and a savory chicken filling, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was drawn to it like a moth to a flame. It was during a trip to Morocco, where the tantalizing aroma of spices filled the air and the vibrant colors of the market stalls dazzled my senses. I had always been passionate about cooking, and I knew that I had stumbled upon something truly special.

I had been wandering through the narrow streets of Marrakech when I came across a bustling spice market. The sights and sounds were overwhelming, but amidst the chaos, I spotted an elderly woman sitting behind a small wooden table covered with an array of colorful spices. She had a weathered face and kind eyes that seemed to hold a lifetime of wisdom.

I approached her tentatively and struck up a conversation. She spoke in a melodic voice, telling me stories of her family and the traditional recipes that had been passed down through generations. She spoke of Makoud vil Djedj, a savory chicken dish that was a staple in Moroccan households.

As she described the ingredients and the method of preparation, I could feel my mouth watering in anticipation. The combination of tender chicken, fragrant spices, and rich tomato sauce sounded absolutely divine. I knew that I had to learn how to make it.

The elderly woman invited me to her home, a humble abode tucked away in a quiet corner of the city. As we entered her kitchen, I was greeted by the warm aroma of cumin, cinnamon, and ginger. She showed me how to marinate the chicken in a blend of spices and yogurt, allowing the flavors to infuse and tenderize the meat.

Next, she demonstrated how to sauté onions, garlic, and tomatoes until they formed a rich, aromatic sauce. She added the marinated chicken to the pot, along with olives, preserved lemons, and a sprinkle of saffron. The dish simmered on the stove, filling the room with a tantalizing fragrance that made my stomach growl in anticipation.

Finally, the elderly woman spooned the steaming Makoud vil Djedj onto a bed of fluffy couscous and garnished it with fresh cilantro and almonds. The colors and textures were a feast for the eyes, and I couldn't wait to dig in.

As I took my first bite, I was transported to a world of exotic flavors and culinary delights. The tender chicken practically melted in my mouth, while the tangy olives and citrusy preserved lemons added a burst of brightness to each bite. The spices danced on my tongue, creating a symphony of taste that left me craving more.

I spent the rest of the day in the elderly woman's kitchen, learning the intricate steps and techniques that went into making Makoud vil Djedj. She shared stories of her family and the memories that were tied to this dish, making it even more special to me.

When it was time to leave, she handed me a handwritten recipe card, stained with spices and love. It was a precious gift that I would cherish forever, a reminder of the magical day I spent in her kitchen learning the secrets of Makoud vil Djedj.

Now, whenever I make this dish for my family and friends, I am transported back to that bustling spice market in Marrakech and the kind elderly woman who showed me the way. Each bite is a tribute to her and the culinary traditions that have shaped my love for cooking. And as I watch my loved ones savoring the flavors of Makoud vil Djedj, I know that I am passing on a piece of my own legacy to the next generation.