Madfouna Bisafaran

Introduction and History

Madfouna Bisafaran, often referred to as the "Berber pizza," is a traditional dish rooted in the culinary heritage of the Moroccan Berber communities. Originating from the Tafilalet region, this dish is a unique fusion of rustic ingredients and aromatic spices, baked to perfection in clay ovens buried in sand. The term 'Madfouna' translates to 'buried,' emphasizing the cooking technique where the dough is enveloped with a variety of fillings and cooked beneath the sand. 'Bisafaran' highlights the use of saffron, a precious spice derived from the flower of Crocus sativus, which imparts a golden hue and rich flavor to the dish.

Ingredients

• Flour - 500g
• Water - 250ml
• Salt - 2 tsp
• Olive Oil - 3 tbsp
• Saffron - a pinch
• Yeast - 1 tsp
• Diced Lamb - 250g
• Onion - 1 large, chopped
• Garlic - 3 cloves, minced
• Cumin - 1 tsp
• Coriander - 1 tsp
• Paprika - 1 tsp
• Black Pepper - 1/2 tsp
• Egg - 1 beaten

Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, water, yeast, salt, and olive oil.
2. Mix the ingredients until a sticky dough forms.
3. Add a pinch of saffron soaked in warm water to infuse the dough with its flavor and color.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise for 2 hours or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. Heat a pan over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil.
2. Add the onion and garlic to the pan, sautéing until they soften.
3. Stir in the diced lamb and cook until browned on all sides.
4. Season with cumin, coriander, paprika, and black pepper.
5. Cook until the lamb is tender, then remove from the heat and let it cool.

Cooking Process

Step 3: Assemble and Cook the Madfouna

1. Preheat an oven to 220°C (428°F) or prepare a traditional clay oven or open sand pit if available.
2. Punch down the dough and divide it into two equal portions.
3. Roll out each portion into a large round disc on a floured surface.
4. Place one disc on a baking sheet, spreading the cooked lamb filling evenly on top, leaving about a 2-inch border around the edges.
5. Cover with the second disc and seal the edges by folding and crimping.
6. Brush the top with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until golden brown, or if using traditional methods, bury and cook according to local practice times.

How to Enjoy Madfouna Bisafaran

To fully enjoy Madfouna Bisafaran, consider serving it with a refreshing salad and mint tea, transporting you to a traditional Moroccan meal. The blend of crisp dough and aromatic, spiced lamb filling makes it a perfect communal meal.

Madfouna Bisafaran is not just a dish; it is a cultural experience reflecting the traditional methods and lifestyle of the Berber people, an expression of resourcefulness and culinary art. Enjoy this meal as a representation of Moroccan hospitality and the rich flavors that define it.