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Tunisian Fried Tuna Sandwich

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  • Author: Asma
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Rise Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: ~1 hour 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 sandwiches 1x
  • Category: Lunch, Street Food, Tunisian Cuisine
  • Method: Fried
  • Cuisine: Tunisian, North African

Description

This Tunisian Tuna Sandwich, also known as Fricassee Tunisien (فريكاسيه تونسي), is a crispy, golden fried bread filled with a savory mix of tuna, potatoes, boiled eggs, cheese, and aromatic spices. A beloved street food in Tunisia, this sandwich is packed with flavor and perfect for a satisfying meal!


Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Dough:

  • 500 grams flour
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 sachet baker’s yeast (about 7g)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • Water (as needed, to form a dough)

For the Filling:

  • 4 eggs, hard-boiled and sliced
  • 1 potato, boiled and diced
  • 4 servings of melted cheese (or soft cheese)
  • 1 can tuna, drained
  • 4 tbsp chopped onion
  • 4 tbsp chopped parsley
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric
  • Salt (to taste)
  • Frying oil (for frying the bread)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

  1. In a large bowl, mix flour, yeast, salt, and olive oil.
  2. Gradually add warm water and knead until a soft, smooth dough forms.
  3. Cover and let it rest for 1 hour until doubled in size.

Step 2: Shape and Fry the Bread

  1. Divide the dough into small oval shapes (about palm-sized).
  2. Let them rest for another 15 minutes.
  3. Heat frying oil in a pan and fry the dough pieces until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

  1. In a bowl, mix tuna, boiled potatoes, onions, parsley, turmeric, and salt.
  2. Slice the boiled eggs and cheese portions.

Step 4: Assemble the Sandwich

  1. Slice open each fried bread and fill with tuna mixture, egg slices, and melted cheese.
  2. Serve warm and enjoy this authentic Tunisian street food!

Notes

  • Add harissa for a spicy kick, just like in Tunisia!
  • Swap melted cheese for ricotta or fresh cheese for a different flavor.
  • Best served fresh and warm, but can be stored for a day in the fridge.