Reshta with Chicken – Traditional Algerian Recipe

Reshta with Chicken – Traditional Algerian Recipe

Reshta with chicken is a traditional and heritage dish in Algerian cuisine, often prepared during religious celebrations and festive occasions such as the Prophet’s Birthday (Mawlid al-Nabawi).

The word reshta has Persian roots, derived from tarashta or resht, meaning “thread” — a reference to the thin noodle-like strands that make up the dish.

According to historical accounts, this meal originated in Persia. It is said that Ibn Khaldun was the first to introduce it to Algeria and the Maghreb region after visiting the Mongol leader Tamerlane, who was then based in the Levant. Once it reached Algeria, reshta became integrated into the broader Arab culinary tradition, spreading to neighboring countries and becoming a beloved cultural and festive dish.

Besides its cultural value, reshta with chicken is highly nutritious, providing the body with energy and essential nutrients. It is also considered relatively simple to prepare, not requiring much time or effort in the kitchen.

Ingredients for Reshta with Chicken:

 

• Four cups of reshta noodles (fresh or dried)

• One kilogram of chicken

• One onion, cut into equal sections

• One carrot

• One teaspoon of salt

• One teaspoon of mixed spices

• Five cardamom pods

• Five cloves

• Two cinnamon sticks

Ingredients for the Chickpea Sauce:

• Two cups of chickpeas

• Three zucchinis, cut into pieces

• Two cups of water

• Two onions, chopped

• One tablespoon of ghee (or clarified butter)

• One teaspoon of safflower (for flavor and color)

• One teaspoon of salt

Preparation Method:

1. Start by frying the chicken in oil or ghee. Cover it with water, then add the spices, salt, cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, carrot, and onion. Bring the mixture to a boil and let the chicken cook until tender.

2. In another pot, fry the onions in ghee. Add water, chickpeas, and zucchini, and bring to a boil. Stir in the safflower and let the sauce simmer until ready.

3. Meanwhile, place a pot of water over medium heat until it starts boiling. Put a steamer or strainer over the pot, add the reshta noodles, and steam them, stirring every 10 minutes until fully cooked.

4. Finally, place the reshta in a serving dish, pour the chickpea sauce on top, and arrange the chicken over it. Serve hot and enjoy this rich, flavorful traditional dish with your family.