Assidat zgougou (عصيدة الزقوقو) is a traditional Tunisian dessert similar to pudding. It is primarily prepared during Mawlid celebrations, marking the Prophet Muhammad’s birthday. However, it is available year-round in Tunisian pastry shops. The dessert has a characteristic creamy texture, achieved thanks to its main ingredient – the seeds of the Aleppo pine (Pinus halepensis), locally known as “zgougou.”
In modern Tunisia, assidat zgougou holds the status of a luxurious dessert. This is because only 3 kg of seeds can be extracted from 100 kg of pine cones. Ironically, it was once considered a poor man’s food, as the seeds served as a substitute for wheat, millet, or barley porridge during times of poor harvests.
During Mawlid, it is customary to prepare large quantities of assidat zgougou and share it with family, friends, and neighbors. There are even competitions to determine the best assidat zgougou.
The process of preparing this dessert is quite demanding. First, the seeds of the Aleppo pine are thoroughly cleaned, roasted, and finely ground. The mixture is then combined with water and left to rest for several hours to release all its flavors. The mixture is repeatedly strained through fine sieves to remove solid parts of the seeds, resulting in a smooth, aromatic liquid. Wheat flour (or starch) is added to this liquid to help achieve the right consistency. The mixture is cooked over low heat with constant stirring until it thickens and turns a dark brown color. Once ready, the mixture is poured into bowls and left to cool.
The preparation of the white layer, which complements the dessert, follows. This layer is made from milk, sugar, starch, egg yolks, and aromatic essences such as orange blossom or geranium extract. The topping contrasts not only in color but also in flavor.
The surface of the dessert is traditionally decorated with various types of nuts, which can be used whole or ground. They are often arranged in artistic patterns.
I had the chance to try assidat zgougou in a renowned pastry shop in the capital city of Tunisia. The flavor was slightly nutty, and the white layer with orange blossom extract added a pleasant twist to the dessert. The nuts provided a crunchy element. One bowl of assidat zgougou cost 6 TND (2 EUR).
Bon appétit!
