Seafood Pastilla: Morocco’s Coastal Twist on a Classic Dish

Seafood pastilla (also called fish bastilla) is a delicious Moroccan pie that blends the richness of the sea with the elegance of traditional Moroccan spices and crispy pastry. Lighter than the classic chicken version, it’s popular in coastal cities like Essaouira and Agadir.

What Is Seafood Pastilla?

Seafood pastilla is a Moroccan savory pie made with layers of warqa (thin dough), filled with spiced shrimp, white fish, squid, vermicelli noodles, and sometimes mushrooms. The filling is wrapped in pastry and baked until golden and crispy.

Main Ingredients

• Shrimp, white fish, calamari (optional: mussels or crab)
• Garlic, onions, fresh parsley and coriander
• Moroccan spices: paprika, cumin, pepper, and saffron
• Vermicelli rice noodles (soaked and chopped)
• Warqa or phyllo dough
• Butter and olive oil
• Lemon juice or preserved lemon (optional)

How to Make Moroccan Seafood Pastilla

1. Sauté seafood with garlic, herbs, and spices.
2. Add chopped vermicelli and stir until well combined.
3. Layer buttered pastry sheets in a round baking pan.
4. Fill with the seafood mixture and cover with more pastry.
5. Bake until golden and crispy (around 25–35 minutes).
6. Optional: dust with a small pinch of cinnamon and lemon zest.

Why Try Seafood Pastilla?

• Unique fusion of Mediterranean seafood and Moroccan spices
• A lighter, modern twist on the classic pastilla
• Perfect for dinner parties and festive meals
• Popular in Moroccan coastal cities and restaurants

Serving Suggestions

• Serve warm with lemon wedges and mint tea
• Pairs well with a Moroccan salad or grilled vegetables
• Can be made as individual small pastillas for starters

Seafood pastilla is a creative and flavorful dish that brings together the best of Moroccan tradition and coastal cuisine. Whether you're visiting Morocco or cooking at home, it's a must-try for seafood lovers.

Read also: chicken pastilla