Smen

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Smen is a traditional fermented butter originating from North Africa, particularly Morocco, Algeria, and Tunisia. It is a staple ingredient in many North African cuisines and is often used in dishes such as couscous and tagine.

History[edit | edit source]

Smen has a long history in North African cuisine, with some reports suggesting its use dates back over a thousand years. It is traditionally made by fermenting butter in a process that can take several months to a year. The result is a product with a distinctive flavor and aroma, often compared to a combination of blue cheese and parmesan.

Production[edit | edit source]

The production of smen involves churning fresh milk or cream to separate the butterfat. The butter is then washed and salted before being placed in a ceramic jar to ferment. The jar is sealed and stored in a cool, dark place for several months to a year. During this time, the smen develops its characteristic flavor and aroma.

Culinary Uses[edit | edit source]

Smen is used in a variety of North African dishes. It is often used as a cooking fat in dishes such as couscous and tagine, where it imparts a unique, rich flavor. Smen can also be spread on bread or used as a condiment.

Health Benefits[edit | edit source]

While smen is high in saturated fat, it also contains beneficial nutrients such as vitamin A, vitamin D, and vitamin E. It is also a source of conjugated linoleic acid, a type of fat that has been linked to various health benefits.

See Also[edit | edit source]

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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD