Algerian cuisine: Bread and beyond

Algeria is known for its varied bread-making traditions. The cuisine has a wide array of staple breads, each with unique texture and flavor. Let’s have a look at the main types of bread and explore the ways in which they are prepared.

Khobz el Dar

Khobz el Dar is considered a staple in Algerian homes. Traditionally handmade, it is soft, fluffy and round in shape. It is made primarily from wheat flour, yeast, and water, and sometimes seasoned with sesame or nigella. Khobz el Dar is usually served with tajines, soups, and a variety of other dishes.

Mouna

Mouna is a sweet, brioche-like bread, popular especially during festivals and celebrations. It has a citrus zest and a rich buttery texture. The dough is made from eggs, sugar, flour, and yeast. Typically, it is shaped into round loaves, baked until golden, and served accompanied with tea or coffee.

Kesra

Kesra is flatbread with a crispy crust. It is made with semolina or wheat flour, water, salt, and sometimes yeast. The dough is typically hand-flattened and then cooked on a hot clay or cast-iron surface. While the outer layer becomes crusty, it remains soft and warm inside making it a perfect pair with stews and soups.

Matlouh

Matlouh is flatbread made from semolina. It is soft and spongy and is often a staple during holy month of Ramadan. Yeast is added to the dough, consisting of semolina, water, and salt. Once it rises, it is shaped into thick, round discs and cooked on a hot griddle or in a clay oven. Served with stews and sauces, Matlouh is an essential part of many Algerian meals.

Baghrir

Baghrir is made from a batter of semolina, flour, yeast, and water. Notable for their spongy texture, it is typically cooked on one side until bubbles form and burst. It is often served warm with honey, butter, or jam.

Khubz El Bey

Khubz El Bey is a dessert bread. Layers of bread are soaked in syrup and filled with a mix of ground almonds, sugar, and cinnamon. Baked until it turns golden, it is topped with sesame seeds or nuts. Khubz El Bey is popular especially during special occasions and celebrations.

Mhadjeb

Mhadjeb is a popular crepe traditionally filled with a spicy mixture of tomatoes and onions. Sometimes, meat is also added. The dough is made of fine semolina, water, and salt. It is rolled out, folded over the filling, and cooked on a flat griddle until it turns golden brown. Mhadjeb is enjoyed as a snack or a quick meal and is best when served hot.

Enjoy all these types of bread and more at Asmahan Restaurant, the best Algerian Restaurant in Dubai. Feel the taste of home.