Harcha
Moroccan Semolina Griddle Bread
A delightful and essential Moroccan breakfast bread, Harcha is a simple yet satisfying griddle cake made from semolina. Its slightly grainy texture and golden-brown crust make it perfect for enjoying with sweet or savory toppings.
🧂 Ingredients
- 300 g Fine semolina flour(Also known as 'semoule fine'. Ensure it's fine semolina for the best texture.)
- 60 g Unsalted butter(Melted and slightly cooled.)
- 2 tbsp Granulated sugar(Adjust to taste if preferred.)
- 1 tsp Baking powder
- 150 ml Milk(Lukewarm milk helps activate the baking powder.)
- 0.5 tsp Salt(Enhances flavor.)
- 1 tbsp Vegetable oil or butter(For greasing the griddle.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a large mixing bowl, combine the fine semolina flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Whisk briefly to ensure everything is evenly distributed.
⏱️ 2 minutes - 2
Add the melted butter to the dry ingredients. Using your fingertips, rub the butter into the semolina mixture until it resembles coarse breadcrumbs. This process is crucial for achieving the characteristic grainy texture.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 3
Gradually pour in the lukewarm milk while mixing with your hands or a spoon until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms. Be careful not to overmix; just combine until no dry semolina remains.
⏱️ 3 minutes - 4
Lightly flour your hands and divide the dough into 8 equal portions. Gently shape each portion into a thick, round disc, about 1.5-2 cm (around 0.75 inches) thick. You can use a small cookie cutter or a glass rim to create a neater edge if desired.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 5
Heat a dry, non-stick griddle or a cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Once hot, lightly grease it with vegetable oil or butter. The griddle should be hot enough that a drop of water sizzles and evaporates quickly.
- 6
Carefully place the shaped harcha discs onto the hot griddle, ensuring not to overcrowd it. Cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until each side is a beautiful golden-brown and the harcha is cooked through. You should hear a gentle sizzle as they cook.
⏱️ 10-12 minutes - 7
Remove the cooked harcha from the griddle and place them on a wire rack to cool slightly. Serve warm.
⏱️ 1 minute
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓The key to good Harcha is the 'rubbing in' of the butter to create a crumbly texture before adding liquid.
- ✓Harcha is best enjoyed fresh, warm from the griddle.
- ✓Serve with a generous dollop of butter and a drizzle of honey for a classic sweet breakfast.
- ✓For a savory variation, omit the sugar and add a pinch of cumin or herbs to the dough.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add grated cheese (like a mild white cheese) to the dough for a cheesy Harcha.
- Incorporate finely chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a savory twist.
- Some recipes include a small amount of orange blossom water for added fragrance.