AlgeriaRfiss from Constantine (toasted semolina with dates)
Arabic name الرفيس (سميد أو خبز محمّص مفتت ممزوج بالتمر والزبدة والقرفة، حلوى المولد النبوي التقليدية في قسنطينة)
Original name Rfiss Qacentini
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Ingredients (5)
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Method
Toast the semolina or ground stale bread in a dry frying pan over a low heat, stirring constantly, until golden brown and fragrant.
Mash the pitted dates well into a soft, sticky paste.
Gradually rub the melted butter or smen into the toasted semolina until you have an even, sandy texture.
Add the date paste and cinnamon and knead everything by hand until it forms a soft, cohesive mass.
Shape the mixture into a cone or neat mound on the serving plate, decorate with ground nuts and serve for the Mawlid as a traditional, sustaining festive dish specific to Constantine and the surrounding area.
