Moroccan Chebakia Made Easy: Full Preparation Guide with Ingredients and Technique

 

Moroccan Chebakia: A Traditional Sweet Full of Flavor and Heritage

Chebakia (also spelled Shebakia or Mkharqa) is one of Morocco’s most beloved traditional sweets, especially during the holy month of Ramadan. Rich in flavor, fragrant with spices and orange blossom water, and coated in warm honey and sesame seeds, chebakia is more than just a dessert it’s a symbol of Moroccan hospitality and culinary artistry.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 1 kg all-purpose flour

• 125 g melted butter

• 1 egg

• 1 small glass of oil (half olive oil, half vegetable oil)

• 1/2 glass white vinegar

• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 3 tbsp roasted and ground sesame seeds

• A pinch of ground mastic gum (mixed with a bit of sugar)

• 1 tbsp instant yeast (dissolved in a bit of warm water)

• 1/2 tsp baking powder

• Orange blossom water (as needed to bring the dough together)

• Warm water (for kneading)

For Frying and Garnish:

• Vegetable oil for deep frying

• Warm honey (infused with orange blossom water)

• Toasted sesame seeds for garnish

Preparation

1. Making the Dough

In a large bowl, combine flour, melted butter, egg, oils, vinegar, cinnamon, salt, ground sesame, mastic gum, yeast, and baking powder.
Gradually add orange blossom water and warm water while kneading until a soft, elastic dough forms. Cover and let it rest for 20-30 minutes.

2. Shaping the Chebakia

Roll out the dough into a thin layer. Cut it into small rectangles (approx. 10 cm x 5 cm).
Using a pastry cutter, make 4-5 slits in the middle of each rectangle, then skillfully fold and twist the strips to create a flower or lattice shape. This is the traditional chebakia design.

3. Frying and Soaking in Honey

Heat oil in a deep frying pan. Fry the shaped pieces until golden brown.
Immediately transfer them into a bowl of warm, flavored honey. Let them soak for a few minutes so they absorb the honey.

4. Final Touch

Drain any excess honey, place on a serving tray, and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds.
Let cool before serving. Chebakia is best enjoyed with a glass of traditional Moroccan mint tea.

 Final Notes

Chebakia is not only a sweet treat; it's part of Morocco's culinary identity. Preparing it is often a communal event in Moroccan homes, especially before Ramadan. The balance of spices, the richness of the dough, and the floral hint from the orange blossom water all come together to make this delicacy unforgettable.

Whether you're discovering Moroccan cuisine for the first time or reconnecting with your roots, chebakia is a must-try dessert that brings warmth, nostalgia, and flavor to your table.

Edit This Article