Orange Blossom Pastilla Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 lb. phyllo pastry sheets
• 1 lb. cooked shredded chicken
• 1 cup toasted almonds, chopped
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup orange blossom water
• 1/2 cup butter, melted
• 1 tsp. cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp. nutmeg
• 1/2 tsp. salt
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, mix the cooked shredded chicken, toasted almonds, sugar, orange blossom water, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt together.
3. Brush each phyllo sheet with melted butter and layer 8 sheets of phyllo pastry on top of each other.
4. Spoon the chicken mixture onto the top sheet of phyllo and spread evenly.
5. Layer another 8 sheets of phyllo pastry on top of the chicken mixture, brushing each sheet with melted butter.
6. Brush the top sheet with melted butter and sprinkle with powdered sugar.
7. Bake in the oven for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
9. Sprinkle with more powdered sugar on top before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the orange blossom pastilla warm as a main dish or as an appetizer for a large gathering. This Moroccan inspired dish pairs well with a side salad or couscous.

Verdict

The orange blossom pastilla is a delicious and savory pastry that is worth the effort to make. The chicken filling is perfectly complemented by the sweetness of the orange blossom water and cinnamon. The phyllo pastry bakes up crispy and golden brown with a touch of powdered sugar on top for a perfect finishing touch.