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Authentic Algerian Mahjouba Recipe for 2026
Rebiai min eat

Authentic Algerian Mahjouba Recipe

traditional, flaky Algerian flatbread stuffed with a savory, spicy tomato and onion filling. A beloved North African street food staple.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6 أشخاص
Course: main course, street food
Cuisine: algerian, North African
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

  • == For the Dough ==
  • 3 cups Fine Semolina
  • 1 cup All-Purpose Flour
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • Warm water as needed for kneading
  • Vegetable oil for shaping and cooking
  • == For the Spicy Filling ==
  • 3 large Onions finely sliced
  • 3 ripe Tomatoes chopped
  • 3 cloves Garlic minced
  • 1 tbsp Tomato paste
  • 1 tsp Harissa or chili flakes optional
  • 1 tsp Paprika
  • Salt and Black pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp Olive oil

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, mix fine semolina, flour, and salt. Gradually add warm water while kneading for 10-15 minutes until smooth and elastic. Divide into small lemon-sized balls, coat with oil, and rest covered for 30 minutes.
  2. Cook the Filling (Tchektchouka): Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté sliced onions until soft and translucent. Add minced garlic, chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, harissa, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 15 minutes until thick, then cool completely.
  3. Stretch the Dough: Generously oil your work surface and hands. Take a dough ball and flatten it into a paper-thin square sheet using your palms.
  4. Fill and Fold: Place 2 tablespoons of the cooled onion-tomato filling in the center of the dough. Fold the four edges over the filling to form a neat square envelope.
  5. Cook and Serve: Heat a oiled tajine or heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Transfer the stuffed Mahjouba square carefully and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Serve hot.

Notes

Cool the Filling: Always allow the spicy onion-tomato filling (Tchektchouka) to cool down completely before placing it on the thin dough to prevent tearing.
 
Resting is Key: Allowing the dough balls to rest under a oil coating makes .stretching the semolina paper-thin much easier without shrinking back
📊 Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 320 kcal
Protein: 8 g
Carbohydrates: 52 g
Fat: 10 g
Fiber: 4 g