Msemen (Flaky Square Pancakes)

Method

1. 1

   Knead the flour, semolina, sugar, salt and water into a very smooth, supple dough, about 10 minutes.

   💡 The dough should feel like an earlobe — soft enough to stretch paper-thin without tearing.

2. 2

   Divide into 8 balls, coat them in oil, and rest 15 minutes under a cloth.

3. 3

   On an oiled surface, flatten one ball with oiled palms, pushing outward from the center until nearly translucent.

4. 4

   Drizzle with melted butter, scatter a pinch of semolina over, then fold the sides in to make a square; repeat with the rest.

   💡 The butter and semolina between the folds are what split the layers apart in the pan.

5. 5

   Cook each square on a hot, lightly oiled griddle for 2–3 minutes per side, pressing gently, until golden and blistered.

6. 6

   Serve hot, dragged through warm honey mixed with melted butter.