Tunisia’s cuisine is a vibrant blend of Mediterranean and North African flavours, reflecting the country’s rich history and cultural diversity. With influences from Arab, Berber, and French culinary traditions, Tunisian food offers an array of delicious dishes that balance spices, fresh ingredients, and unique cooking techniques. Here are ten must try dishes in Tunisia, each offering a taste of the country’s culinary heritage.
10 Awesome Dishes You Must Try When You’re In Tunisia
1. Couscous
Couscous is a staple in North African cuisine, and in Tunisia, it’s a beloved dish that’s often served on Fridays and special occasions. Made from steamed semolina grains, Tunisian couscous is typically topped with lamb, chicken, or fish and a medley of vegetables like carrots, zucchini, and tomatoes. What sets Tunisian couscous apart is the addition of harissa, a spicy chili paste that adds a signature heat and depth of flavour.
2. Brik
Brik is a popular Tunisian appetiser made from thin pastry dough filled with egg, tuna, capers, and parsley, then deep fried until crispy. The egg yolk is left runny, creating a delicious contrast with the crispy pastry. Brik is a common dish during Ramadan and is often enjoyed with a squeeze of lemon juice. The combination of textures and flavours makes this a must try snack when exploring Tunisian street food.
3. Lablabi
Lablabi is a traditional Tunisian chickpea soup known for it’s hearty and comforting qualities. Made with chickpeas in a spiced broth, lablabi is typically served with torn pieces of stale bread, garlic, and a generous amount of harissa. The dish is garnished with toppings like boiled eggs, capers, and olive oil, creating a rich and flavourful experience. Lablabi is especially popular in the colder months and is a staple in Tunisian breakfast.
4. Harissa
While not a dish on its own, harissa is an important component of Tunisian cuisine and deserves a mention. This spicy chili paste is made from red chili peppers, garlic, coriander, and caraway seeds, and is used as a base in countless dishes. Harissa adds heat and flavour to soups, stews, and sauces and is often served as a condiment with bread and olive oil. Tunisia is the birthplace of harissa, and experiencing it here offers the most authentic taste of this iconic ingredient.
5. Ojja
Ojja is a traditional Tunisian dish made with eggs poached in a spicy tomato sauce with harissa, garlic, and bell peppers. Often referred to as a Tunisian version of shakshuka, ojja is a popular breakfast and brunch option, especially when made with merguez (spicy lamb or beef sausage). The combination of soft eggs and the rich, flavourful sauce makes this dish both satisfying and full of character.
6. Salade Mechouia
Salade Mechouia, or “grilled salad,” is a refreshing dish made from grilled vegetables like tomatoes, peppers, onions, and garlic. The vegetables are finely chopped and mixed with olive oil, lemon juice, and spices. It’s usually topped with tuna, hard boiled eggs, and olives, making it a vibrant, flavourful side dish. Salade Mechouia is a popular accompaniment to grilled meats and is often enjoyed with crusty bread.
7. Kamounia
Kamounia is a rich and flavourful stew that is popular in Tunisian cuisine. Made with beef or liver, it’s seasoned with cumin (from which the dish gets its name), along with garlic, onions, and harissa. The slow cooked stew has a deep, earthy flavour and is often served with bread to soak up the savory sauce. Kamounia is a must try for those who enjoy hearty, comforting dishes with bold flavours.
8. Makroud
Makroud is a traditional Tunisian pastry that is particularly popular in the city of Kairouan. Made from semolina dough filled with dates or figs and flavoured with orange blossom water, these pastries are deep fried and then soaked in honey. The result is a sweet, sticky, and aromatic treat that’s perfect for dessert or as a snack with tea. Makroud is often served during celebrations and is a true delicacy in Tunisian cuisine.
9. Couscous with Fish
While couscous with lamb or chicken is common, Tunisia also has a unique version made with fish, especially along the coastal areas. Fish couscous is prepared with local fish, spices, and vegetables, and is known for its rich, flavourful broth. The dish is spiced with harissa and other traditional spices, making it distinctively Tunisian. Fish couscous showcases the country’s coastal influence and is a favorite among seafood lovers.
10. Bambalouni
Bambalouni is a Tunisian version of a doughnut, particularly popular in the coastal town of Sidi Bou Said. The dough is deep fried until golden and then dusted with powdered sugar. Bambalouni is light, fluffy, and slightly chewy, making it an irresistible treat for both locals and tourists. Often enjoyed as a street food, bambalouni is perfect for a sweet snack or a dessert, especially when paired with Tunisian mint tea.
Why You Should Try Tunisian Cuisine
Authentic Flavours
Tunisian cuisine is known for its bold flavours, often achieved through the use of spices like harissa, cumin, and coriander. The unique blend of Mediterranean and North African influences makes every dish a flavourful adventure.
Rich Cultural Heritage
Tunisian food reflects the country’s rich history, with influences from Arab, Berber, Ottoman, and French cuisines. Each dish tells a story of the region’s diverse cultural influences, making it an integral part of the Tunisian experience.
Fresh Ingredients
Many Tunisian dishes feature fresh, locally sourced ingredients, including seafood from the Mediterranean, dates, olives, and vibrant vegetables. The use of fresh ingredients adds a natural richness to each dish.
Warm Hospitality
In Tunisia, food is a central part of gatherings and celebrations. Tunisian hospitality is renowned, and sharing a meal is seen as a way to bring people together. Trying traditional dishes allows you to experience this warmth and sense of community.
Unique Street Food
Tunisia’s street food scene offers a range of snacks and treats, from brik to bambalouni. These dishes are not only delicious but also offer an authentic taste of Tunisian daily life.
From hearty stews like Kamounia to sweet treats like Makroud, Tunisian cuisine is a reflection of the country’s vibrant culture and culinary traditions. The use of spices, fresh ingredients, and unique cooking techniques makes each dish a flavourful journey into Tunisia’s heritage. Whether you’re savouring a bowl of couscous with fish or enjoying a crispy brik, each bite reveals a part of Tunisia’s history and love for food. So, when you find yourself in Tunisia, don’t miss the chance to explore these 10 must try dishes for an unforgettable culinary experience.
