Sellou Recipe – Sfouf or Zmita

Sellou (also known as Sfouf or Zmita) is a traditional Moroccan dessert that’s often enjoyed during Ramadan or at special occasions. This rich, nutty dish is made with toasted flour, almonds, sesame seeds, and a mix of aromatic spices, offering a delightful combination of flavors and a boost of energy. It’s a great way to break your fast or enjoy as a snack with tea.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup almonds, toasted and finely ground
• 1/2 cup sesame seeds, toasted
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup ghee or unsalted butter
• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground ginger
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/2 cup honey (or to taste)
• 1/2 cup warm water (to adjust the consistency)
• A pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Toast the Flour

1. In a large pan over medium heat, dry-toast the flour, stirring constantly, until it turns golden brown and develops a nutty aroma (about 10-12 minutes). Be sure not to burn the flour. Remove from heat and let it cool.

2. Toast the Sesame Seeds and Almonds

1. In a separate pan, toast the sesame seeds until golden brown (about 3-4 minutes).
2. Toast the almonds in the same pan or oven until lightly browned. Then, finely grind them in a food processor or by hand.

3. Combine the Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the toasted flour, ground almonds, toasted sesame seeds, powdered sugar, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt.

4. Add the Ghee or Butter

1. Melt the ghee or butter in a pan and pour it over the dry ingredients. Mix well to ensure the fat is absorbed by the flour and nuts, giving the mixture a smooth texture.

5. Add the Honey and Water

1. Slowly add the honey to the mixture and stir well.
2. Gradually add warm water, a little at a time, until you achieve a thick, paste-like consistency. You may not need all the water, so adjust as necessary.

6. Shape and Serve

1. Once the mixture has cooled down a bit, shape it into small portions or roll it into balls. Alternatively, you can press it into a flat dish to cut into slices.
2. Garnish with extra toasted almonds or sesame seeds, if desired.

Serving Tips

• Storage: Store Sellou in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
• Serving: Serve with Moroccan mint tea or as part of a traditional Moroccan Iftar. It’s also great for gifting or enjoying after a long day of fasting.

Enjoy the rich, nutty goodness of Sellou, a perfect energy-boosting treat for any occasion!