Sellou (Moroccan Energy Mix)

Ingredients:

• 500g flour
• 500g sesame seeds
• 250g liquid honey
• 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp ground nutmeg
• 1 glass of roasted almonds
• 500g blanched almonds
• 500g melted butter
• 1 tbsp anise seeds
• ½ tsp grated nutmeg
• 2 tsp Arabic gum (gomme arabique)
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar

Preparation:

1. Toast the Flour: Roast the flour in the oven, stirring regularly, or toast it in a large, hot, non-stick pan. Stir frequently to achieve a golden-brown color without burning it. If using a pan, work in batches for even toasting.
2. Sift the toasted flour and set it aside.
3. Toast the sesame seeds in the same way until golden.
4. Toast the blanched almonds until they achieve a light golden color.
5. In a food processor, blend the toasted ingredients along with the nutmeg, anise seeds, cinnamon, and Arabic gum until finely ground.
6. Pour the sifted, toasted flour into a large deep dish, such as a Moroccan gassaa (a traditional wide mixing bowl).
7. Add the ground nut mixture to the flour and mix well.
8. Gradually incorporate the clarified melted butter and honey, working the mixture by hand to combine everything thoroughly.
9. Adjust the amount of clarified butter according to the desired texture. Use less for a traditional, powdery Sellou that holds its shape in a pyramid, or more for a denser, richer consistency.
10. Shape the Sellou: Form a pyramid on a serving plate for an authentic Moroccan presentation.
11. Lightly dust with icing sugar using a sieve and decorate by drawing diagonal lines from the base to the top with whole almonds.