Moroccan Seffa is a beloved dish that beautifully balances sweet and savory flavors. Made with steamed fine couscous or broken vermicelli, it is delicately flavored with butter, cinnamon, and orange blossom water, then topped with powdered sugar, toasted almonds, and raisins. Traditionally served during Ramadan, Eid, or special occasions, Seffa can be enjoyed as a dessert or a side dish to complement savory meats.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Traditional Moroccan Dish – A staple in Moroccan cuisine, often served during celebrations.
- Perfect for Ramadan & Festive Gatherings – Light, flavorful, and pairs well with savory dishes.
- Sweet & Savory Balance – A delightful combination of aromatic spices, buttery grains, and crunchy almonds.
- Customizable – Can be made with couscous or vermicelli and topped with various nuts or dried fruits.
- Healthy & Filling – Made with wholesome grains and naturally sweetened toppings.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Couscous or Vermicelli:
- 500g fine couscous or broken vermicelli
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cinnamon stick
- ½ cup water
For Garnish:
- ½ cup toasted almonds (chopped)
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ cup raisins (optional, soaked in warm water)
- 1 tbsp orange blossom water (optional)
Directions
1. Prepare the Couscous or Vermicelli
- If using couscous:
- Place couscous in a large bowl, drizzle with vegetable oil, and rub it between your hands to coat the grains.
- Steam in a couscoussier (steamer) for about 15 minutes.
- Remove from the steamer, fluff with a fork, sprinkle with water, and return to steam again for another 15-20 minutes until tender.
- If using vermicelli:
- Toss with a little oil to prevent sticking and place in a steamer.
- Steam until soft, stirring occasionally.
2. Add Flavor
- Once fully cooked, transfer the couscous or vermicelli to a large bowl.
- Mix in the butter, salt, and cinnamon stick, fluffing until the grains are light and airy.
- If using, stir in orange blossom water for extra fragrance.
3. Assemble the Dish
- Place the prepared couscous or vermicelli on a serving plate, forming a mound in the center.
- Sprinkle with powdered sugar and ground cinnamon in a decorative pattern.
- Top with toasted almonds and optionally, soaked raisins for extra sweetness.
4. Serve & Enjoy
- Serve warm as a dessert or alongside a savory meat dish like chicken or lamb tagine for a traditional Moroccan experience.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4-6
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Variations
- Savory Seffa Medfouna – Serve with slow-cooked chicken or lamb for a hearty main dish.
- Nutty Twist – Use crushed walnuts or pistachios instead of almonds.
- Dried Fruit Mix – Add chopped dates, figs, or apricots for extra natural sweetness.
- Coconut Seffa – Sprinkle with shredded coconut for a unique flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm in a steamer or microwave, adding a little butter or water to prevent drying.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as couscous and vermicelli can lose their texture when thawed.
FAQs
1. What is Seffa?
Seffa is a traditional Moroccan dish made with steamed couscous or vermicelli, often served sweet with powdered sugar and nuts or as a savory dish with meat.
2. Can I make Seffa without a steamer?
Yes, but steaming gives the best texture. You can use a fine-mesh sieve over a pot or cook couscous according to package instructions.
3. Is Seffa served as a dessert or main dish?
It can be both! Sweet Seffa is a dessert, while Seffa Medfouna is served with meat as a main course.
4. What can I serve with Seffa?
It pairs well with Moroccan mint tea, tagines, or yogurt.
5. Can I make Seffa with regular pasta?
Yes, use thin vermicelli noodles and steam them until soft.
6. How do I keep couscous from clumping?
Fluff with a fork and drizzle with oil before steaming to keep the grains separate.
7. Can I add saffron for extra flavor?
Yes, saffron-infused water can be added for a more aromatic dish.
8. What if I don’t have orange blossom water?
You can skip it or use a little vanilla extract for subtle sweetness.
9. Is Seffa gluten-free?
Traditional Seffa is not gluten-free, but you can use gluten-free couscous or rice vermicelli.
10. Can I make Seffa in advance?
Yes, cook the base ahead of time and reheat before serving. Add toppings just before serving for freshness.
Conclusion
Moroccan Seffa is a comforting and elegant dish, perfect for Ramadan and festive occasions. Whether served as a dessert or a side dish, its delicate balance of sweet and savory flavors makes it a standout Moroccan specialty. Garnished with toasted almonds, cinnamon, and powdered sugar, this dish is sure to impress at any gathering!
