Moroccan Pastilla and Pill Recipes: Chicken, Seafood, and Fish Bastilla
What is a pill? In Moroccan cuisine, the word "pill" is often used informally to refer to small, rich pastry pies like chicken pill, fish pill, or seafood pill. These are part of the broader Moroccan bastilla tradition, blending flaky pastry, savory meats or seafood, and sweet spices.
Moroccan Seafood Bastilla Recipe: A Coastal Delight
This seafood bastilla recipe uses a delicate mix of shrimp, calamari, and white fish seasoned with traditional Moroccan spices. Unlike the classic chicken pastilla, the bastilla seafood version is lighter yet just as flavorful. It’s also known as a fish bastille or seafood pastille in some translations.
- Shrimp and calamari cooked with garlic and coriander
- White fish with saffron, paprika, and lemon juice
- Eggs lightly scrambled in chermoula sauce
- Layered in crispy warqa pastry and baked
Chicken Pill and Fish Pill: Traditional Variations
If you prefer meat over seafood, try the classic chicken pill filled with saffron chicken, almonds, and cinnamon. For pescatarians, the fish pill offers a tender blend of white fish and herbs wrapped in thin pastry. Both are popular forms of Moroccan bastilla.
What is the difference between seafood and chicken pill?
While the chicken pill uses rich, sweetened meat and nuts, the seafood pill focuses on fresh ocean flavors with a touch of spice and lemon.
Why Moroccan Pill Dishes Are Special
- Moroccan seafood bastilla is perfect for festive occasions and family gatherings
- Chicken pastilla is a must-try for lovers of sweet and savory combinations
- Vegetarian pill options are rising in popularity with chickpeas, pumpkin, and herbs
- Every region has its signature pill recipe, from chicken pastela to fish pill
How to Serve Moroccan Pastilla or Pill
Whether you’re serving a seafood pastille or a chicken bastilla, always accompany it with:
- Fresh Moroccan khobz bread
- Mint tea served in traditional glasses
- Light salads or roasted vegetables
Frequently Asked Questions About Moroccan Pills
What is a Moroccan pill?
A Moroccan pill is a baked or pan-fried savory pastry often filled with seasoned meat, seafood, or vegetables. It’s closely related to pastilla.
Can I make a vegetarian pill?
Yes! A vegetarian pill is typically filled with pumpkin, chickpeas, lentils, or sautéed veggies seasoned with ras el hanout and olive oil.
Is pill the same as pastilla?
In Moroccan food culture, “pill” is a general term that can refer to pastilla, especially smaller or personalized versions of the dish.
What is the best recipe for pill?
The best recipe for pill depends on your taste — meat lovers go for chicken pill, while seafood fans prefer the Moroccan seafood bastilla recipe.
To truly understand Moroccan food culture, you must try a seafood pill, a chicken bastilla, or a regional fish pastille. Each variation is a celebration of Morocco's rich culinary identity.
Looking for where to eat Moroccan seafood bastilla in Rabat? Check out our guide to the best traditional restaurants in Rabat.
