Cookbook:Algerian Coca

Algerian Coca
Category	Pastry recipes
Servings	4–6
Time	2 hours (including resting and baking)
Difficulty

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Algerian coca (كوكة) is a savory pastry that is popular in Algeria, particularly in the city of Oran. It is similar to a thin-crust pizza or a flatbread, often topped with a variety of ingredients such as onions, tomatoes, peppers, and sometimes meat or fish.

Ingredients

Dough

• 500 g (4 cups) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 packet (7 g) active dry yeast
• 250 ml (1 cup) warm water
• 3 tablespoons olive oil

Topping

• 2 large onions, thinly sliced
• 2 large tomatoes, thinly sliced
• 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste

Garnish

• Black olives

Procedure

Dough preparation

1. In a small bowl, dissolve the sugar in warm water. Sprinkle the yeast over the water and let it sit for about 10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.

Topping preparation

1. Heat the olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Add the sliced onions and cook until they become soft and translucent, about 10 minutes.
2. Add the garlic, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper to the onions. Stir well and cook for another 2–3 minutes.
3. Add the sliced tomatoes and bell peppers to the skillet. Cook for another 5–7 minutes until the vegetables are soft but not mushy. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Assembly

1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. Press the risen dough to deflate it, then divide it into two equal portions. Roll out each portion into a thin rectangle or oval shape, about ¼ inch thick.
3. Transfer the rectangles to one or more baking sheets lined with parchment paper. Spread the cooked vegetable mixture evenly over the rolled-out dough.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20–25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the dough is cooked through.

Garnish and serve

1. Remove the coca from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and olives if desired.
2. Cut into squares or slices and serve warm.

Notes, tips, and variations

• If you want to add tuna, anchovies, or ground meat, distribute it evenly over the vegetables before baking.
• If short on time to make this recipe, store-bought puff pastry can be used instead of a homemade dough.