Briouats are one of Morocco’s most iconic and beloved snacks, known for their crispy exterior and savory or sweet fillings. These small, triangular pastries are a staple at family gatherings, during Ramadan, and at celebratory events. Whether stuffed with spiced meat or almonds and honey, briouats offer a bite-sized taste of Moroccan tradition.
What Are Briouats?
Briouats are small pastries that can be filled with a variety of ingredients. The fillings vary based on preference, but traditionally, they include minced meat (beef or chicken), seafood, or sweet almonds. The dough used for briouats is typically warqa—a thin pastry similar to phyllo dough. Once filled, the pastries are folded into a triangular or cylindrical shape, fried until golden, and sometimes dipped in syrup (for sweet versions).
Popular Briouat Fillings
Briouats come in both savory and sweet varieties. Here are some popular fillings:
- Savory Meat Briouats
Ingredients: Minced beef or chicken, onion, garlic, parsley, and spices like cumin, paprika, and cinnamon.
Preparation: The meat is cooked and seasoned before being wrapped in warqa pastry and fried until crispy.
- Sweet Almond Briouats
Ingredients: Ground almonds, powdered sugar, cinnamon, and orange blossom water.
Preparation: The almond mixture is wrapped in the pastry, fried, and then dipped in a honey syrup.
- Seafood Briouats
Ingredients: Shrimp or fish, garlic, herbs, and a blend of Moroccan spices.
Preparation: Seafood is sautéed and seasoned before being folded into the pastry and fried.
How to Make Briouats
Ingredients
Warqa pastry (or phyllo dough)
Filling of choice (meat, seafood, or sweet almond)
Olive oil (for frying)
Honey (for sweet briouats)
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling: Cook your chosen filling. For meat, sauté the minced meat with onions, garlic, and spices. For almond briouats, mix ground almonds with sugar and orange blossom water.
- Fill the Pastry: Cut the warqa into strips. Place a spoonful of the filling at the base of each strip and fold into a triangular or cylindrical shape.
- Frying: Heat oil in a pan and fry the briouats until they are golden and crispy. For sweet briouats, dip the fried pastries in honey.
- Serve: Serve warm. Briouats can be enjoyed as an appetizer, snack, or dessert.
Briouats and Moroccan Culture
Briouats are more than just a delicious treat. They represent the rich culinary heritage of Morocco. Traditionally prepared for special occasions, they showcase the country’s love for balancing sweet and savory flavors. During Ramadan, briouats are a popular Iftar dish, as their richness and variety provide sustenance after a long day of fasting.