Experiencing Food in Tunisia

There’s a little bit of a foodie in everyone, and it always seems to come out when you’re enjoying a new country. This makes sense – suddenly, there’s an opportunity to experience the finest cuisine that nation and culture has to offer!  A trip to Tunisia is no different; it presents an excellent opportunity to sample Tunisian cuisine.

Historically

Food in Tunisia has been greatly inspired and influenced by the history of its people. Everyone who has resided in the country, from the native Berber people and ancient Phoenicians to the temporary invaders such as the Romans and the French left some mark on the food. Often, this is reflected in the collection of spices included.

Flavoring

The food, like many such foods in the general Mediterranean region, tends to be spicy (though you can usually ask a chef to prepare it a touch milder if you have a sensitive palate). One reason for this is because of the popular harissa, a Tunisian chili blend with red peppers, garlic, olive oil and tomatoes, with an emphasis on the peppers. Many in Tunisia believe the spicier the better!

Popular Foods

Some dishes are more popular than others. If you’re looking for a sample of the best, you may want to pick one of these most well-known dishes.

One example is couscous, which is actually the national dish of the country (that’s a big recommendation). It contains a medley of ingredients, including spices, meats, vegetables, and of course, couscous pasta.

The type of meat and vegetables usually depends on whatever is available seasonally in that particular region.

Another popular dish is called Shakshouka, a kind of egg stew. In Shakshouka, eggs are poached in a blend of spices, tomatoes, onions and tomatoes. It is a versatile meal, served for breakfast or dinner. A third example is a dish called felfel mahchi.

The dish is served in many Arab countries, but in Tunisia used as a complement to the harissa sauce. It is one of the most approachable meals if you have no experience with Tunisian food, as it is basically comprised of stuffed peppers.

A Note

Depending on the food you are used to eating, Tunisian food may seem daunting; but the best way to approach Tunisian food – or any new cuisine – is with an open mind.