La Maghrebine

Ramadan is a time of reflection, unity, and celebration for Algerians, and no dish embodies these values more than Ramadan Bricks. These delicious, comforting squares of dough, layered with spiced ground meat, vegetables, and cheese, are the heart of Iftar feasts across Algeria, passed down through generations with pride. In this recipe, we invite you to share in the magic of Ramadan Bricks, recreating this iconic dish in your home. Imagine the aroma of freshly baked dough wafting through the air, mingling with the sounds of laughter and conversation as you gather with loved ones to break your fast.

History and Origins

Ramadan Bricks trace their roots back to the Ottoman Empire, where they were traditionally served as part of a lavish spread during the holy month. They were a symbol of wealth and hospitality, the perfect dish to break the day’s fast with family, friends, and neighbors. Today, they remain a staple of Ramadan in Algeria, each family boasting its own unique recipe and technique, passed down through generations. For many Algerians, Ramadan Bricks evoke memories of childhood, of family gatherings, and of the joy and warmth that comes with sharing a meal together.

Ingredients (makes 16 bricks)

The key to great Ramadan Bricks lies in the combination of aromatic spices and quality ingredients. Use the best you can find, and don’t be afraid to experiment and make the recipe your own. After all, the beauty of Ramadan Bricks lies in their versatility and the love and care that goes into making them.

• 1 kg all-purpose flour
• 100 g unsalted butter
• 500 ml warm water
• 2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp sugar
• 6 eggs
• 1 kg ground lamb
• 4 large onions — finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic — minced
• 1 tbsp ground cumin
• 1 tbsp ground coriander
• 1 tbsp paprika
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper
• 1 kg feta cheese
• 2 large bunches fresh parsley — finely chopped
• 2 large bunches fresh cilantro — finely chopped

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep time: 1 hour 30 minutes | Cook time: 1 hour | Difficulty: Advanced

1. Make the dough: in a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, salt, sugar, and warm water to create a soft, elastic dough. Knead for 10 minutes until smooth and pliable. Cover with a damp cloth and let rest for 30 minutes. As you knead, imagine the love and care that goes into making each brick, the memories that will be created around the dinner table.
2. Prepare the filling: melt butter in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, sauté until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Add ground lamb, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 8 minutes. Season with cumin, coriander, paprika, black pepper, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper. Stir in half of the parsley and cilantro. As you cook, imagine the aromas wafting through the air, mingling with the sounds of laughter and conversation.
3. Assemble the bricks: divide the dough into 4 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a large square, about 3 mm thick. Spread a quarter of the lamb filling over the dough, leaving a 2 cm border around the edges. Crumble feta cheese over the lamb, then sprinkle with the remaining herbs. Roll up the dough tightly, pressing the edges to seal. Cut each roll into 4 equal pieces, pressing the edges to seal again. As you assemble the bricks, imagine the joy and warmth that comes with sharing a meal with loved ones.
4. Bake the bricks: preheat the oven to 180°C. Arrange the bricks in a single layer in a large baking dish, seam-side down. Bake for 45-60 minutes until golden and crisp. Let cool 5 minutes before serving. As the bricks come out of the oven, imagine the excitement and anticipation of breaking your fast with family and friends.

Tips for Success

Ramadan Bricks require patience and practice, but with these tips, you’ll be well on your way to perfecting this Algerian classic. Remember, the key to great Ramadan Bricks lies in the combination of aromatic spices and quality ingredients, as well as the love and care that goes into making each brick.

• The dough should be soft and pliable, not sticky — add flour or water as needed during the kneading process. Don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty and really feel the dough.
• Don’t overstuff the bricks — a thin layer of filling ensures even cooking and a delicate texture. Imagine the joy of taking that first bite, the flavors and textures melding together in a delicious harmony.
• Brush the bricks with egg wash before baking for a beautiful golden finish. This adds an extra layer of flavor and texture, and is a great way to get the kids involved in the cooking process.
• Serve Ramadan Bricks warm, with a sprinkle of fresh herbs and a side of harissa for dipping. They make a beautiful centrepiece for your Iftar table, perfect for sharing with family and friends as you break your fast together. Imagine the laughter, the conversation, and the memories that will be created around the dinner table.

Regional Variations

While Ramadan Bricks are a staple of Algerian cuisine, they can vary slightly by region. In some parts of the country, they are made with ground beef instead of lamb, or with a mix of both. Others add spicy merguez sausages to the filling for an extra kick. As you experiment with different ingredients and techniques, remember to keep the heart of the dish the same – love, care, and a sense of community.

Serving and Presentation

Serve Ramadan Bricks warm, with a sprinkle of fresh herbs and a side of harissa for dipping. They make a beautiful centrepiece for your Iftar table, perfect for sharing with family and friends as you break your fast together. Imagine the joy and warmth that comes with sharing a meal with loved ones, and the memories that will be created around the dinner table.

Conclusion

Ramadan Bricks are more than just a dish – they are a symbol of tradition, family, and community. As you prepare this iconic Algerian dish, remember the values it represents and the memories it will create. Share your Ramadan Bricks experience with us in the comments below, and let’s come together to celebrate the joy and warmth of the holy month.