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Traditional Moroccan Safa Dish

Safa Recipe: Traditional Moroccan Sweet Vermicelli with Chicken

Ouissam Recipes
Safa is a flavorful Moroccan dish featuring steamed vermicelli, tender chicken, and a blend of sweet spices, perfect for festive occasions. A true celebration of Moroccan culinary heritage.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours
Course Lunch
Cuisine Moroccan
Servings 6 people

Equipment

  • Couscoussier pot
  • Large bowl
  • Frying pan
  • Oven
  • Pot
  • Serving Plate

Ingredients
  

  • 6 chicken thighs or breasts (1 kg)
  • 300g vermicelli
  • 75g butter
  • 3 large onions, finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1 tsp ground ginger
  • ½ tsp turmeric
  • 1 ½ cups chicken broth
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 100g golden raisins
  • 75g toasted almonds
  • 2 tbsp honey (optional)
  • Fresh coriander or parsley, chopped
  • 1-2 tbsp icing sugar
  • 1-2 cinnamon sticks

Instructions
 

  • Preparation Steps:
    Steam the Vermicelli:Coat the vermicelli with oil. Steam for 35 minutes, moisten with salted water, and steam for another 30 minutes. Add raisins and steam for an additional 20-30 minutes. Toss with butter.
    Prepare the Almonds:Blanch and peel almonds, then fry them until golden. Blend half and leave the rest whole.
    Cook the Chicken:Sauté chicken in olive oil, add onions, spices, and coriander. Simmer with chicken broth until tender. Roast chicken in the oven at 200°C until golden. Reduce sauce and add honey for sweetness.
    Assemble the Dish:Place the steamed vermicelli on a serving plate, top with chicken, sauce, almonds, raisins, and a dusting of powdered sugar and cinnamon.

Notes

  • Vermicelli Choice: Traditional Moroccan vermicelli gives the dish its authentic texture and flavor, but you can substitute with thin pasta like angel hair if needed.
  • Vegetarian Version: For a meatless variation, replace the chicken with caramelized onions, chickpeas, and a mix of nuts for added texture and richness.
  • Sweetness Level: Adjust the honey and powdered sugar to suit your taste. If you prefer a less sweet dish, you can skip the honey or reduce the sugar.
  • Chicken Alternatives: You can use chicken breasts instead of thighs if you prefer leaner meat.
  • Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of water to maintain moisture.
  • Serving Tip: Serve in a traditional Moroccan tagine or a beautifully decorated serving plate to enhance the authentic experience.
 
Keyword Moroccan Cuisine, Safa Recipe, Safa with Chicken Recipe