Rechta

Delight your senses with Rechta, a traditional Algerian dish that brings together hand-prepared pasta and a warmly spiced chicken and vegetable stew. This comforting recipe features homemade ribbons of dough, rolled and cut into thin strips, then gently steamed to perfection. The rich, aromatic broth is infused with cinnamon, saffron, and warming spices like coriander and ginger, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. Tender chicken, hearty chickpeas, and vibrant vegetables like turnips, zucchini, and carrots add layers of texture and depth to this dish. Rechta is crafted with love and care, making it the perfect centerpiece for family gatherings or festive occasions. Serve this show-stopping dish topped with the savory stew, and don't forget a side of extra broth to savor every last drop. Perfectly suited for those seeking authentic Algerian cuisine, Rechta is a true culinary treasure!

Nutriscore Rating: 75/100

Prep Time:45 mins

Cook Time:120 mins

Total Time:165 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 500 grams All-purpose flour
• 3 pieces Large eggs
• 2 teaspoons Salt
• 100 milliliters Water
• 1 kilogram Chicken pieces
• 1 medium Onion, finely chopped
• 200 grams Chickpeas, soaked overnight
• 2 medium Turnips, peeled and quartered
• 2 large Carrots, peeled and cut into large chunks
• 2 medium Zucchini, cut into chunks
• 1 piece Cinnamon stick
• 1 teaspoon Black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon Ground ginger
• 1 pinch Saffron threads
• 3 tablespoons Olive oil
• 50 grams Butter
• 1.5 liters Water

Directions

Step 1

In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add eggs and water. Mix to form a dough, then knead for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Step 2

Cover the dough with a clean cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.

Step 3

Roll out the dough to a thin sheet and cut into thin strips resembling tagliatelle. Allow strips to dry slightly while preparing the broth.

Step 4

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.

Step 5

Add chicken pieces to the pot and brown them on all sides.

Step 6

Stir in chickpeas, turnips, carrots, zucchini, cinnamon stick, black pepper, coriander, ginger, and saffron. Pour in 1.5 liters of water.

Step 7

Bring the broth to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for about 1.5 hours until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.

Step 8

Meanwhile, prepare steam pots (couscoussier) by boiling water in the bottom pot. Place the raw rechta pasta in the top steamer pot.

Step 9

Steam the rechta for about 15 minutes, then remove and fluff gently with hands. Add a bit of butter for flavor and prevent sticking.

Step 10

Serve the steamed rechta in a large serving dish, topped with the chicken, vegetables, and some broth.

Step 11

Present the remaining broth in a separate bowl to be served alongside.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	4317.9 grams (4317.9g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	5710

Total Fat 246.40g	316%
Saturated Fat 73.50g	368%
Polyunsaturated Fat 5.20g
Cholesterol 1556mg	519%
Sodium 6271mg	273%
Total Carbohydrate 486.20g	177%
Dietary Fiber 42.50g	152%
Total Sugars 34.60g
Protein 366.40g	733%

Vitamin D 128IU	640%
Calcium 684mg	53%
Iron 48mg	266%
Potassium 5397mg	115%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 39.4%

Protein: 26.0%

Carbs: 34.6%