How to Prepare Moroccan Msemen: A Modern Guide

By MaCooking — 2025

Crispy on the outside, soft and layered inside, Msemen is Morocco’s iconic square-shaped flatbread. Enjoyed at breakfast or as a snack, msemen is the perfect blend of simplicity and artistry. This contemporary guide shows you how to make authentic msemen at home, step by step.

Ingredients

2 cups fine semolina (or all-purpose flour)
2 cups all-purpose flour
1½ tsp salt
1 tsp sugar
1½ cups warm water (as needed)
⅓ cup vegetable oil (for folding & cooking)
⅓ cup melted butter (optional, for richness)
Extra semolina for dusting

Instructions

Mix the Dough: In a large bowl, combine flour, semolina, salt, and sugar. Gradually add warm water and knead until a soft, elastic dough forms (about 10 minutes).
Divide & Rest: Coat your hands with a little oil, divide the dough into small balls (golf ball size), cover, and let rest for 20 minutes.
Prepare Folding Mixture: Mix melted butter with oil in a small bowl. Keep extra semolina for dusting.
Shape the Msemen: Oil your work surface and hands. Flatten each ball into a thin circle. Brush with the butter-oil mix, sprinkle with semolina, and fold into a square, brushing and dusting with each fold.
Cook: Preheat a non-stick pan over medium heat. Cook each msemen square for 2–3 minutes per side until golden and crisp.
Serve: Enjoy hot, with honey or Moroccan mint tea!