Tunisian Fried Tuna Sandwich

This Tunisian Fried Tuna Sandwich (Fricassé Tunisien) is a delicious street food made with homemade fried bread stuffed with tuna, eggs, potatoes, melted cheese, olives, and spicy harissa. Crispy on the outside and soft inside, this flavorful sandwich is a beloved classic in Tunisia, perfect for a satisfying meal or snack.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Authentic Tunisian flavor – Combines fresh, bold ingredients with traditional spices.
• Crispy yet fluffy bread – The homemade fried bread makes this sandwich unique.
• Rich and satisfying filling – A delicious mix of tuna, eggs, potatoes, and cheese.
• Perfect for any meal – Enjoy it as breakfast, lunch, or a snack.
• Customizable – Add harissa, olives, or extra vegetables to suit your taste.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Dough (Fricassée Bread)

• 500 grams flour
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 sachet (7g) baker’s yeast
• 1 tsp salt
• Warm water (as needed, about 200ml)
• Vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Filling

• 4 eggs, boiled and chopped
• 1 large potato, boiled and diced
• 4 portions of melted cheese (e.g., Laughing Cow or Kiri)
• 1 can tuna, drained
• 4 tbsp chopped onion
• 4 tbsp chopped parsley
• ½ tsp turmeric
• Salt (to taste)
• Harissa (optional, for spice)
• Black olives (optional, for garnish)

Directions

1. Prepare the Dough

• In a bowl, mix flour, yeast, olive oil, and salt.
• Gradually add warm water and knead until you get a soft, smooth dough.
• Cover and let it rest for 1 hour until it doubles in size.

2. Shape and Fry the Bread

• Divide the dough into small balls and flatten them slightly.
• Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan over medium heat.
• Fry the dough pieces until golden brown and crispy.
• Remove and drain on a paper towel.

3. Prepare the Filling

• In a bowl, mix boiled eggs, boiled potatoes, melted cheese, tuna, onions, parsley, turmeric, and salt.
• Stir until well combined.

4. Assemble the Sandwich

• Slice open each fried bread roll without cutting through completely.
• Spread a little harissa inside (optional).
• Stuff with the tuna mixture and garnish with black olives if desired.

5. Serve and Enjoy

• Serve warm as a delicious snack or meal.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6 sandwiches
• Prep Time: 1 hour (including dough rising time)
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Version – Add more harissa for a fiery kick.
• Extra Crunch – Add sliced cucumbers or radishes.
• Olive Twist – Mix chopped black or green olives into the filling.
• Healthier Option – Bake the bread instead of frying.
• Vegan Version – Replace eggs and cheese with avocado or hummus.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Freezing: Freeze the fried bread (before filling) for up to 1 month. Reheat in an oven before using.
• Reheating: Warm the sandwich in a skillet or oven for a few minutes.

FAQs

What is Tunisian Fricassée?

Fricassée is a Tunisian fried bread sandwich filled with tuna, potatoes, eggs, olives, cheese, and harissa, making it a staple street food.

Can I bake the bread instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, but the texture will be different.

Is this sandwich spicy?

It can be! Adding harissa makes it spicy, but you can adjust the spice level.

What other toppings can I add?

You can include lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, or capers for extra flavor.

Can I use store-bought bread?

Yes, but the homemade fried bread is what makes this sandwich special.

How do I keep the bread crispy?

Eat immediately or reheat in an oven to restore crispiness.

Can I make the dough in advance?

Yes, prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before frying.

What is the best side dish for this sandwich?

Serve with a fresh salad, fries, or a cup of mint tea for a Tunisian touch.

How do I prevent the filling from making the bread soggy?

Drain tuna well and spread harissa or butter inside to create a moisture barrier.

Can I make mini versions for parties?

Yes! Shape the dough into smaller pieces for bite-sized Tunisian sandwiches.

Conclusion

The Tunisian Fried Tuna Sandwich (Fricassé Tunisien) is a crispy, flavorful, and satisfying sandwich that’s easy to make at home. Whether you enjoy it with harissa, olives, or extra cheese, this authentic Tunisian street food will transport your taste buds straight to North Africa. Try it today and enjoy a delicious bite of Tunisia!