Bastela au Fromage

Background and History

Bastela, also known as B'stilla or Pastilla, is a traditional Moroccan dish that is often served during special occasions and celebrations. This savory pie is renowned for its complex flavors and textures, combining sweet and salty elements with a unique blend of spices. The traditional Bastela is usually made with pigeon or chicken, layered with eggs and almonds, and encased in a delicate phyllo pastry. However, Bastela au Fromage is a delightful cheese variant that has gained popularity for its creamy and rich taste profile. This version replaces the typical protein with a variety of cheeses, creating a decadent finish suitable for vegetarian preferences.

The origins of Bastela are traced back to the Andalusian era, where the blending of different culinary traditions came together, involving intricate cooking techniques and ingredients. Cheese, a staple in many diets across the globe, becomes a perfect candidate to complement the complex flavors of Bastela, resulting in a fusion that is both familiar and exotic.

Ingredients

• Phyllo pastry - 10 sheets
• Butter - 100g, melted
• Cream cheese - 150g
• Feta cheese - 100g, crumbled
• Mozzarella - 150g, shredded
• Gruyère cheese - 100g, grated
• Eggs - 3, beaten
• Nutmeg - 1/4 tsp
• Salt - to taste
• Black pepper - to taste
• Milk - 100ml
• Honey - 2 tbsp
• Almonds - 50g, toasted and chopped
• Cinnamon - 1 tsp

Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Cheese Filling

Start by combining cream cheese, feta cheese, mozzarella, and gruyère cheese in a large mixing bowl. Mix thoroughly until well blended. Add milk and beat in the eggs one at a time to ensure a smooth, homogeneous mixture. Season with nutmeg, salt, and black pepper to taste. The resulting cheese mixture will be creamy and flavorful, forming the core of our Bastela.

Step 2: Prepare the Phyllo Pastry

Phyllo pastry is notoriously delicate, so handle with care. Lay out the sheets on a clean, dry surface and cover them with a damp towel to prevent them from drying out. Take one phyllo pastry sheet and brush it with melted butter. Repeat this process, layering about 5 sheets for the base of the pie, ensuring each layer is brushed with butter.

Assembly and Cooking Process

Step 3: Assemble the Bastela

Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F). Grease a round baking dish and carefully ease the layered phyllo pastry into it, leaving the edges overhanging. Pour the cheese filling onto the pastry, spreading it evenly across the base. Sprinkle toasted almonds generously over the cheese mixture, adding a delightful crunch to the texture.

For the top layer, repeat the process of layering and buttering the remaining pastry sheets. Gently place them over the top of the dish, folding the overhanging edges to seal the pie.

Step 4: Baking the Bastela

Place the assembled Bastela into the preheated oven. Allow it to bake for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry turns golden and crispy. For precise timing, consider setting a cooking timer to ensure optimal cooking results.

Finishing Touches

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Once baked to perfection, remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly. Drizzle the top with honey and dust with cinnamon for a subtle sweet note that complements the rich cheeses. This final step accentuates the traditional elements of Moroccan cuisine, providing a sweet contrast to the savory filling.

Carefully slice the Bastela and serve warm, accompanied by a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables to balance the rich flavors.

Enjoying Bastela au Fromage

Bastela au Fromage is best enjoyed with family and friends as a centerpiece for a communal meal. The combination of warm, melted cheese with the flaky texture of the pastry makes for a luxurious culinary experience. Consider pairing it with a light, dry white wine or a refreshing mint tea to cleanse the palate between indulgent bites. As you savor each slice, reflect on the rich history and cultural fusion that has made Bastela such a beloved dish across generations.