I tried Moroccan ground meat cigars during a family trip to the vibrant city of Marrakech. The medina was alive with a symphony of aromas—cumin, cinnamon, and the unmistakable scent of freshly grilled meat. We wandered through the narrow, bustling streets, drawn in by the scent of street food, and finally, I convinced my husband to stop at a small stall where a kind old woman was frying these delectable treats. She offered us crispy, golden cigars filled with fragrant ground meat, wrapped tightly in delicate pastry. Each bite was a revelation—flaky on the outside, with a warmly spiced, savory filling that melted in my mouth.
Back home, I was eager to recreate that experience for my own family, and after experimenting in the kitchen, I found that this recipe captures the essence of those flavors perfectly. I love how simple it is to prepare these Moroccan ground meat cigars, yet the taste is complex and utterly satisfying. The secret lies in the combination of cinnamon, cumin, and ginger, which give the filling a rich, aromatic depth that’s both comforting and exotic. Whether it’s a quick weeknight snack or an appetizer at a family gathering, these cigars never fail to impress.
What I appreciate most about this recipe is its versatility. You can use ground beef, turkey, or even plant-based crumbles, making it a perfect option for any dietary preference. I often serve them with a simple yogurt dipping sauce or a fresh side salad for a light, balanced meal. And the best part? The kids absolutely love them! Rolling up the wonton wrappers becomes a fun family activity, and I’m always amazed at how quickly they disappear from the plate.
If you’ve never tried Moroccan ground meat cigars before, I encourage you to give this recipe a shot. It’s a little piece of Moroccan street food magic, brought straight to your home.
How to Prepare Moroccan Ground Meat Cigars
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Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 12-16 ounces ground meat (beef, turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 package wonton wrappers (about 24 sheets)
Directions
- In a medium pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the finely chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until soft and translucent.
- Stir in the ground meat and cook, breaking it up as it browns.
- Mix in the cinnamon, ginger, cumin, salt, and pepper, and cook until the meat is browned and well-seasoned.
- Place each wonton wrapper on a clean surface and add about a teaspoon of the meat mixture to the center.
- Roll the wrappers tightly, sealing the edges with a little water to prevent them from opening while cooking.
- Place the rolled cigars on a greased baking sheet and bake in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes, until crispy and golden.
- Alternatively, you can fry them in a shallow pan with oil, turning occasionally until they’re evenly crispy and golden brown.
Storing Suggestion
Store any leftover cigars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F to regain crispiness before serving. You can also freeze uncooked cigars for up to 2 months and bake them directly from frozen.
Cooking Tips
If you prefer a more flavorful filling, try adding minced garlic or fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley. Make sure the meat is fully cooked before rolling the cigars to prevent any moisture from affecting the wrappers.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cigars with a side of harissa or yogurt dip for a spicy kick. They also pair well with a fresh cucumber and tomato salad or alongside a mezze platter with olives and hummus.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don’t have wonton wrappers, phyllo dough or spring roll wrappers can be used. You can also replace the ground meat with lentils or chickpeas for a vegetarian version.
Seasonal Variations
For a summer twist, add fresh mint and lemon zest to the meat mixture. In winter, a pinch of allspice and nutmeg can bring warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
Allergen Information
This recipe contains gluten from the wonton wrappers. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free wrappers or rice paper. Ensure any plant-based crumbles are free from allergens if you’re using a meat substitute.
FAQ:
How do I prevent the cigars from becoming soggy?
Ensure the filling is not too wet, and if baking, don’t overcrowd the cigars on the tray. Use a preheated oven to help them crisp up.
Can I make these cigars ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the cigars and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking or frying. Alternatively, freeze them for later use.
What can I serve alongside these cigars?
These cigars are great as an appetizer or part of a larger mezze spread. They pair well with yogurt-based dips or a simple salad.
Can I use other spices in the filling?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with spices like paprika, coriander, or even smoked chili flakes for a different flavor profile.
Can I bake instead of fry to make them healthier?
Yes, baking the cigars in the oven with a light spray of oil is a healthier alternative to frying while still getting a crispy texture.
How can I make these cigars vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, substitute the meat with plant-based ground crumbles or a mixture of cooked lentils and mashed chickpeas.
Moroccan Ground Meat Cigars
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil extra virgin
- 1 finely chopped onion
- 12-16 ounces ground meat beef, turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 package wonton wrappers about 24 sheets
Instructions
- Heat a pan over medium-high heat and add the olive oil.
- Sauté the chopped onion for approximately 2 minutes until softened, then add the ground meat.
- Stir in the cinnamon, ginger, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook until the meat is fully browned and the spices are well incorporated.
- Lay out the wonton wrappers on a flat surface. Spoon about 1 teaspoon of the meat mixture onto each wrapper.
- Roll the wrappers tightly and seal the edges with a bit of water.
- Arrange the cigars on a baking sheet, lightly spray with cooking spray, and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Alternatively, you can pan-fry the cigars in a small amount of oil, turning occasionally until crispy and cooked through.
