Joanna James
As one of the African continent's most dynamic tourist hotspots, Tunisia is also a foodie's dream destination. Heavily influenced by its neighbours, these 13 culinary delights are some of the best local dishes to sample during a tour of the country.
Also known as Shakshuka, Ojja, is a popular breakfast dish made with tomatoes and eggs. As a dish that's consumed all across North Africa, this aromatic dish also features bell peppers, chilli and onions to add texture to the poached eggs.
Although Merguez is often attributed to French cuisine, the dish originated in Tunisia and was adopted by the French during the colonisation of the country. This spicy sausage treat can be made with mutton or beef sausages and is usually consumed on its own or wedged between sandwich bread.
As a comfort food that's a staple in the local cuisine, couscous is a must-sample delicacy for those who are new to local culinary treats. As the national dish of the country, it is a soft and textured dish that is brimming with tagine.
As a dish that has come down from the Ottoman era, Brik is the perfect snack for those who love pastries. Featuring a filling with eggs, the pastry is fried to perfection. Available in variations that include tuna fish and chicken, Brik is also considered a breakfast dish and a street food staple.
Also called Shorba, this dish is most often a part of Ramadan feasts and is a rich broth that is served in local restaurants around the country. Composed of beef or another type of meat, some variations are made using seafood including those sourced from the coastlines.
First cultivated in Algeria, the Delget Nour Dates are considered the best type of dates in the world. Eaten on their own, the delicious treats are now grown in the northern reaches of Africa and are considered a wholesome snack and are a big hit with vegetarian diners.
Tunisia produced some of the world's finest olives and those who are fortunate enough to be vacationing in the country can see olives used as garnishes and as the main ingredient in many dishes. The olive oil made in Tunisia also makes great gifts due to its high quality.
Those who are based at The Residence Tunis or any similar Tunisia resorts will also find many local restaurants serving up this beloved chicken dish. Unlike in western cuisine, Tunisia's incarnation of roast chicken is served up on a bed of boiled chickpeas and onions and drizzled with lemon juice.
Considered a street food variety, this soup features chickpeas as its main ingredient and is seasoned with cumin and garlic to create a mouth-watering broth that pairs perfectly with bread. Some love to top off the dish with parsley, red onions, and eggs.
As a colonial hand-me-down, Tunisian pastries are all a variation of Baklava, which hails from the Ottoman Empire.
When it comes to authentic Tunisian tea, nothing beats a cup of Maghrebi Mint Tea made on a Kenoot stove.
As a spice mix infused with chillies, Harissa is a paste that's incorporated into most local dishes to add spiciness and heat to a dish.
Another Ramadan dish, this sweet treat is made using butter, sugar, and couscous and is often garnished with dates, dry grapes, or pomegranates.
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