Maftoul is an Arabic word derived from the root “fa-ta-la,” which means to roll or to twist, which describes the method used to make it. Maftoul is the Palestinian version of Moroccan couscous.It was brought by Moroccan migrants to Palestine, where it was modified. Today, it is made by hand at home or bought from markets and is particularly served on holidays and other special occasions.

The ingredients of maftoul differ regionally, but it is typically prepared with bulgur, white and brown wheat, meat, pepper, cumin and salt. It is topped with broth made from pumpkin, onions, tomatoes, carrots and chickpeas. These photos illustrate the steps for making maftoul in Gaza.

Captions and translated copy by Yasmin Hillis.