Musakhan Rolls

Background and History

Musakhan rolls are a variation of the traditional Palestinian dish Musakhan, which is celebrated for its rich flavors and cultural significance. Traditionally, Musakhan includes sumac spiced chicken served on a bed of taboon bread, topped with caramelized onions and pine nuts. It is a dish that signifies homecoming and communal gatherings. Over time, Musakhan evolved into a convenient roll or wrap form, perfect for quick meals or on-the-go snacks while preserving the essence of the original flavors.

Ingredients

• Chicken (breast or thighs, approximately 500g)
• Sumac (2 tablespoons)
• Onions (2 large, thinly sliced)
• Olive Oil (1/4 cup)
• Taboon Bread or Flatbreads (6 pieces)
• Pine Nuts (1/4 cup, toasted)
• Salt (to taste)
• Black Pepper (to taste)
• Lemon (optional, for serving)
• Parsley (optional, for garnish)

Preparation

Marinating the Chicken

To start, prepare the chicken by cutting it into small strips. Place the chicken in a bowl and add sumac, a drizzle of olive oil, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Mix well, ensuring the chicken is evenly coated with the spices. Allow it to marinate for at least 30 minutes. This will enhance the flavor and tenderness of the meat.

Preparing the Onions

While the chicken is marinating, heat the remaining olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the onions and cook them slowly until they caramelize and turn a golden brown. This should take about 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. Once done, remove the caramelized onions from the heat and set aside.

Cooking Process

Cooking the Chicken

Heat a non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken strips once the pan is hot. Cook the chicken for about 8-10 minutes, or until fully cooked and slightly golden on the outside. Ensure to stir occasionally for even cooking. The real trick to perfect Musakhan is to ensure the flavors are deeply incorporated while keeping the chicken juicy.

Assembling the Rolls

Lay a piece of taboon bread or flatbread on a clean surface. Place a few slices of cooked chicken along one edge of the bread. Top the chicken with the prepared caramelized onions and a sprinkle of pine nuts. Carefully roll the bread over the filling, ensuring it is tightly wrapped.

Repeat this process for the remaining bread and fillings.

Enjoying Musakhan Rolls

Musakhan rolls are best enjoyed warm but can also be served at room temperature, making them a versatile dish. They can be garnished with a squeeze of lemon juice and a sprinkle of chopped parsley for extra freshness and zest. Serve these delightful rolls as appetizers, snacks, or main courses. They are perfect for lunch boxes or a picnic and pair well with a side of yogurt or a light salad.

With every bite, experience the harmonious blend of tart sumac, savory chicken, sweet caramelized onions, and the nutty crunch of toasted pine nuts, all encased in soft, chewy flatbread. Whether you're familiar with Palestinian cuisine or exploring it for the first time, Musakhan rolls offer a delicious taste of tradition with a modern twist.

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