Briouat
Snacks • Morocco
About Briouat
Crisp Moroccan filo parcels stuffed with spiced meat, seafood, or honeyed almonds — sweet and savory versions.
How to Make Briouat (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Briouat is a beloved North African snack, deeply rooted in the culinary traditions of Morocco and the Maghreb region. These golden, crispy pastries are typically filled with a savory mixture of spiced meat, herbs, and sometimes cheese or vegetables, then wrapped in delicate warqa (or phyllo) pastry and lightly baked or fried. Briouat offers a delightful contrast of textures—crisp on the outside, moist and flavorful within. This snack is not only popular during festive occasions and Ramadan, but is also enjoyed as an everyday treat throughout North Africa. The taste of Briouat is a harmonious blend of aromatic spices such as cinnamon, cumin, and coriander, which are staples in North African cuisine. The filling is traditionally made with ground meat (usually chicken or beef), fresh herbs, and sometimes almonds for a nutty twist. Briouat is a great choice for health-conscious eaters as this version uses baking instead of deep frying, reducing overall fat content while preserving authentic taste. Its convenient, hand-held size makes it perfect for sharing with friends and family or enjoying on the go.
Ingredients(for 2-3 briouats per person)
- 150g Ground chicken or lean beef (use chicken for lighter version)
- 6 sheets Warqa or phyllo pastry sheets (thin, crispy pastry)
- 1 small Onion (finely chopped)
- 2 tbsp Fresh cilantro (finely chopped)
- 2 tbsp Fresh parsley (finely chopped)
- 1/4 tsp Ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp Ground cumin
- 1/4 tsp Ground coriander
- 1 Egg white (for sealing)
- 1 tbsp Olive oil (for sautéing and brushing)
- 2 tbsp Chopped almonds (optional, for texture) - optional
- to taste Salt & black pepper
Instructions
- 1
Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
5 minutes
Preheating ensures even baking and crispiness.
- 2
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent.
3 minutes
Stir frequently to avoid burning the onion.
- 3
Add ground chicken or beef to the pan, breaking up any lumps. Cook until browned. Stir in cumin, coriander, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
5 minutes
Add spices once meat is half-cooked to bloom their flavors.
- 4
Mix in the chopped cilantro, parsley, and optional almonds. Cook for another minute, then remove from heat and let cool slightly.
2 minutes
Cooling helps prevent tearing the pastry.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This healthy briouat recipe minimizes added fats by baking instead of deep frying, significantly reducing calorie and fat content. Lean protein and wholesome herbs boost nutritional value, making it suitable for balanced diets. Using simple, real ingredients ensures the snack is free from unnecessary additives and preservatives, supporting overall wellness and weight management. It’s a satisfying, protein-rich snack option for anyone seeking authentic North African flavors in a lighter format.
Briouat, when baked rather than fried, is a lighter option for those tracking calories. Lean ground chicken provides high-quality protein with less saturated fat, while herbs add antioxidants and micronutrients like vitamin K and C. Almonds (if used) contribute healthy fats, vitamin E, and magnesium. The use of olive oil keeps the fat profile heart-friendly, and the phyllo pastry is lower in fat compared to traditional warqa. Spices like cinnamon and cumin not only enhance flavor but may offer anti-inflammatory benefits.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Always keep phyllo or warqa pastry covered with a damp towel when assembling to prevent drying.
- 💡Tip 2: Let the filling cool completely before wrapping to avoid soggy pastry.
- 💡Tip 3: For extra crispiness, use a convection setting if available when baking.
Storage & Serving
Store cooked briouats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to restore crispiness. Uncooked, shaped briouats can be frozen for up to 1 month and baked directly from frozen.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 310.0 kcal |
| Protein | 6.8 g |
| Carbohydrates | 28.0 g |
| Total Fat | 18.0 g |
| Fiber | 1.2 g |
