Rechta

Method

1. 1 Knead the semolina with salt water for 15 minutes, then let it rest for 1 hour. Roll it out thinly and cut it into 2 mm thick strips.
2. 2 Sprinkle flour on the noodles and steam for 20 minutes, then brush with oil and steam for another 15 minutes — regta is steamed, not boiled, so the noodles are separate and chewy.
3. 3 Cook the chicken with onions, cinnamon, ras el hanout, and pepper for 45 minutes to make a white broth; do not add tomatoes.
4. 4 Add chickpeas, radishes, and pumpkin and cook for 20 minutes to make a flavorful broth.
5. 5 Mix the steamed noodles with butter, then arrange them in a bowl. Pour in the white broth and top with chicken and vegetables.

With an appliance

• Microwave 1 hr 40 min

  Replace step 2: place the oiled noodles in a partially covered container, microwave at 700 W for 8 minutes, loosen the noodles, then microwave for another 5 minutes; the chicken broth and vegetables from steps 3–4 remain simmering on the stovetop.