Have you ever wondered what happens when ancient Berber culinary traditions meet the concept of pizza? Let me introduce you to medfouna, often called the Berber pizza - a hidden gem of Moroccan cuisine that I discovered in the enchanting town of Rissani.
What is Medfouna?
Unlike its Italian cousin, medfouna (meaning "buried" in Arabic) is a unique stuffed bread that's become a staple of Berber mountain cuisine. This isn't your typical pizza - it's a sophisticated blend of flavors wrapped between two layers of carefully prepared dough, cooked in traditional wood-fired ovens.
The Cultural Significance
In Rissani, medfouna isn't just food - it's a celebration of Berber culinary heritage. Local families have been perfecting this recipe for generations, and it holds a special place in both everyday meals and celebrations. As my friend Brahim, a local chef, explained, "For us, medfouna is what brings people together. Every family has their own special way of making it."
The Art of Making Medfouna
The Dough
The process begins with a simple but crucial dough made from:
- Flour
- Water
- Yeast
- Salt
- A pinch of sugar
The Traditional Filling
The classic medfouna filling includes:
- Minced meat (typically lamb)
- Eggs
- Almonds
- A blend of Moroccan spices
- Fresh herbs
- Onions
Where to Find the Best Medfouna
In Rissani, the heart of medfouna-making, you'll find numerous traditional bakeries (or "faran") specializing in this delicacy. One of the most renowned is Faran B'Lal, where master bakers have been perfecting their craft for decades.
Tips for Trying Medfouna:
- Best time to visit: Early afternoon when the bread is freshly baked
- Cost: 30-50 MAD per portion
- Duration: Allow 35-40 minutes for fresh preparation
- Local etiquette: Eating with hands is traditional and acceptable
A Chef's Perspective
As Gordon Ramsay discovered during his visit, medfouna represents the perfect marriage of simplicity and sophistication. The combination of carefully selected ingredients, traditional cooking methods, and generations of expertise creates what he described as "absolutely delicious" and "one of the best pizzas I've ever eaten."
Your Turn to Try
Have you ever tried medfouna or are you planning to? I'd love to hear about your experiences with this unique Moroccan dish. Drop a comment below sharing your thoughts or questions about this fascinating piece of Berber cuisine.