Riz djerbien, also known as rouz jerbi, is a traditional Tunisian dish originating from the island of Djerba. The base of the dish is long-grain rice, which is steamed together with ingredients such as spinach, peas, carrots, potatoes, chickpeas, and spices (turmeric, coriander, black pepper, saffron). It often includes meat (chicken, lamb, beef) or seafood, but vegetarian versions also exist. The unique preparation method, where all the ingredients are steamed together, ensures a light and fluffy texture.
Mlewi is a traditional Tunisian flatbread with a typical layered structure. It serves as the base for the sandwich of the same name. The sandwich is filled with ingredients such as tuna, eggs, cheese, or fresh vegetables. Thanks to its easy preparation, filling variety, and practical serving, mlewi is very popular.
Chapati tunisien is a popular Tunisian street food that combines the simplicity of leavened flatbread with a wide variety of fillings. It is filled with ingredients typical of Tunisian cuisine, such as egg omelette, cheese, harissa, tuna, grilled meat, fresh vegetables, and different dressings. The result is an affordable sandwich full of flavors. Chapati tunisien is an ideal choice for a quick lunch or dinner.
The name of the traditional Tunisian dish sahfa thoum translates to "a bowl of garlic," and that’s exactly what it offers - a paste made from garlic mixed with olive oil, topped with a soft-boiled egg and additional ingredients. The result is a warming and nourishing dish where the bold flavor of garlic is perfectly balanced with the runny egg yolk and local olive oil. Sahfa thoum is served with crispy baguette and is a favorite winter dish.
Tunisian tajine is a traditional dish of Tunisian cuisine, similar to a baked omelette or frittata. It shares only its name with Moroccan tajine, as it is a completely different dish. The base is a mixture of eggs, meat, fish, or vegetables, complemented by cheese, herbs, and spices. The mixture is baked in the oven, resulting in a firm casserole that can be served warm or cold. Tunisian tajine comes in many variations, including vegetarian options.
Tunisian zrir is a dessert made from roasted and ground sesame seeds, honey, and various nuts. Its pleasantly sweet flavor is enhanced by aromatic spices like cinnamon or anise. This typical Tunisian delicacy is traditionally prepared for special occasions such as the birth of a child or a wedding.
Assidat zgougou is a traditional Tunisian dessert primarily prepared for Mawlid celebrations but available year-round in pastry shops. The dessert has a characteristic creamy texture, achieved thanks to its main ingredient - the seeds of the Aleppo pine. The surface is decorated with nuts, often arranged in artistic patterns.
Makroudh is a traditional Tunisian sweet originating from the city of Kairouan. It is made from semolina dough filled with date paste, shaped into cylinders. These are flattened, cut into the characteristic diamond shapes, and fried until golden. Finally, the pieces are dipped in syrup made of sugar, water, and lemon juice. Makroudh is beloved throughout the Maghreb.
Basbousa, known as harissa in Tunisia, is a traditional sweet dessert popular in the Middle East, North Africa, and the Mediterranean. This moist cake is made from coarse wheat semolina, giving it a unique grainy texture, and is soaked in a sweet sugar syrup after baking. Basbousa is a staple at celebrations, Ramadan, weddings, and holidays such as Eid al-Fitr. The recipe varies widely from region to region.
Harissa is a traditional Tunisian spicy paste that combines the bold flavors of dried chili peppers, garlic, oil, and aromatic spices. The name comes from the Arabic word "hars," meaning "to crush," which describes the traditional preparation method using a copper mortar. The most famous varieties come from the city of Nabeul, where Baklouti peppers are grown and processed with expert care. Harissa is an essential part of Tunisian cuisine.
