Moroccan Djej M’hammar recipe

🌟 Introduction 

Djej M’hammar is one of Morocco’s most cherished traditional chicken dishes. Slowly cooked in a rich blend of spices, olive oil, and onions, then roasted for a caramelized finish, this dish combines tender meat, confit olives, and preserved lemon for a deep, aromatic flavor. 

📝 Ingredients 

For the chicken marinade: 

• 1 whole chicken (about 1.5 kg), cut into pieces 

• 2 medium onions, finely chopped 

• 2 cloves garlic, minced 

• 1 tsp ground ginger 

• 1 tsp ground turmeric 

• 1 tsp sweet paprika 

• 1/2 tsp black pepper 

• Salt to taste 

• 1/4 cup olive oil 

• A pinch of saffron threads (optional) 

• 1 tbsp chopped parsley and coriander 

For cooking: 

• 1/2 cup water 

• 1/2 cup green or purple confit olives 

• 1 preserved lemon, cut into strips 

• 1 tbsp smen (fermented butter, optional) 

• 1 tbsp honey or a few soaked raisins (for sweetness) 

👨‍🍳 Instructions 

Step 1: Marinate the chicken

In a large bowl, mix chicken with onions, garlic, spices, herbs, olive oil, and saffron. Cover and marinate for at least 2 hours or overnight for best flavor.

Step 2: Cook the chicken

Transfer the chicken and marinade to a heavy pot or tajine. Add 1/2 cup water and cook on medium heat, covered, for 45–60 minutes until the chicken is tender and infused with spices. Stir occasionally.

Step 3: Reduce the sauce

Remove the chicken from the pot. Let the sauce simmer until it thickens into a rich, golden onion confit called deghmira.

Step 4: Roast the chicken

Place the chicken pieces on a baking tray. Roast at 200°C (390°F) for 10–15 minutes until golden and slightly crispy.

Step 5: Serve

Place the chicken over the deghmira, garnish with olives, preserved lemon strips, and a touch of honey or soaked raisins for contrast. Optional: Add spicy harissa sauce on the side.

Tips for Perfect Flavor 

• Use smen for a deeper traditional taste. 

• Marinate overnight to intensify the flavors. 

• You can add toasted almonds or sesame seeds as garnish. 

Conclusion 

Djej M’hammar brings warmth and depth to any Moroccan meal. It’s festive, comforting, and full of bold spice — a must-have dish for food lovers around the world. 

Try it, share it, and bring Moroccan tradition to your table!