Air-Fryer Algerian Mhadjeb Lamb & Tomato Flatbreads

Grand Tour Recipe

Air-Fryer Algerian Mhadjeb Lamb & Tomato Flatbreads

Make Air-Fryer Algerian Mhadjeb Lamb & Tomato Flatbreads with measured UK ingredients, practical air-fryer timings and bold Grand Tour flavour.

Mhadjeb are Algerian semolina flatbreads folded around a jammy onion-and-tomato filling. This version adds spiced lamb, turning market-stall bread into a full, crisp-edged meal.

Thin dough parcels cook quickly in the air fryer and keep the filling sealed between chewy layers. Harissa brings heat, but slow-softened onion and tomato are what make the centre properly savoury.

Air-Fryer Algerian Mhadjeb Lamb & Tomato Flatbreads
Air-Fryer Algerian Mhadjeb Lamb & Tomato Flatbreads preparation stage

You’ll Need

For the Dough
250g fine semolina
100g plain flour
½ tsp sea salt
210ml warm water
1 tbsp olive oil

For the Filling
300g lamb mince
1 large onion, finely sliced
2 tomatoes, finely chopped
1 tbsp tomato puree
1 tsp harissa paste
1 tsp ground cumin
½ tsp black pepper

Optional but Dangerous
Extra harissa
Mint yoghurt
A cold Algerian lager

Method

Mix the semolina, flour and salt, then knead in the water and oil to make a soft dough.

Cover and rest for 30 minutes.

Place the lamb and onion in a heatproof dish and air fry at 195°C for 7 minutes, breaking it up twice.

Stir in the tomatoes, tomato puree, harissa, cumin and black pepper.

Air fry for 6 minutes until thick, then cool.

Divide the dough into four pieces and stretch each very thin on an oiled surface.

Spread filling over the centre and fold the sides in to make flat square parcels.

Preheat your air fryer to 195°C and brush the parcels lightly with oil.

Air fry in batches for 8-10 minutes, turning once, until blistered and crisp.

Rest for 2 minutes before cutting.

Lad Tip: Cook the filling until almost dry and cool it before folding. Mhadjeb dough is thin enough to show off, it is also thin enough to expose every watery shortcut.

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