Recipes
Tunisian Fricassé: The Fried Sandwich You Need to Try
Fricassé is one of Tunisia’s most iconic street foods — a golden fried sandwich roll stuffed with tuna, potato, hard-boiled egg, olives, and a fiery touch of harissa. Crispy on the outside and soft inside, these sandwiches are a staple at markets, bakeries, and family gatherings. Unlike many street snacks, Fricassé is as filling as a full meal — the perfect grab-and-go comfort food.
Legend has it that Fricassé was created by accident. A Tunisian homemaker once fried bread rolls for dessert, but instead of sweet fillings, she stuffed them with savory ingredients like tuna, potato, and harissa. Her family loved it — and soon, so did everyone else. Today, Fricassé is sold everywhere in Tunisia and has become a proud symbol of the country’s street food culture.
What is Fricassé made of?
Fricassé is made of small yeasted rolls that are fried until golden. Once cooked, they’re sliced open and filled with tunisian staples.
Is Tunisian Fricassé sweet or savory?
Although it looks like a doughnut, Fricassé is savory, not sweet. The fried roll is filled with tuna, egg, and potato, making it a hearty snack or light meal.
When do Tunisians eat Fricassé?
Fricassé is eaten at all times of the day — as a quick breakfast, a lunchtime snack, or an evening bite. It’s especially popular during Ramadan, served at iftar tables to break the fast. You’ll also see it at family gatherings, picnics, and street stalls.
Is Fricassé healthy?
Fricassé is fried, so it’s more indulgent than light. But its fillings — tuna, eggs, and potatoes — are full of protein and energy. Compared to other fried fast foods, Fricassé is actually more balanced, as it combines carbs, protein, and healthy fats (from olive oil and tuna). It’s definitely comfort food, but one with substance.
Where can you eat Fricassé in Tunisia?
Almost everywhere — from seaside stalls in Monastir to bakeries in Tunis. Many cafés sell them as quick bites, and in markets, you’ll see trays of freshly fried rolls disappearing in minutes. Each vendor has their own variation, but the essence is always the same.
They’re best eaten warm, fresh from the fryer.
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Fricassé Tunisien (Tunisian Fried Sandwich)
NUTRITION
Ingredients
For the dough
- 500 g all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp dry yeast
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 250 ml warm water adjust as needed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Oil for deep frying
For the filling
- 2 medium potatoes boiled and cubed
- 2 hard-boiled eggs sliced
- 1 can tuna in olive oil drained
- 6–8 olives green or black, pitted and halved
- 1 –2 tbsp harissa adjust to taste
- 1 tbsp capers optional
- Olive oil for drizzling
- Fresh parsley chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the dough: Mix flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Add warm water gradually and knead until smooth. Add olive oil and knead again for 5–7 minutes. Cover and let rise for 1–2 hours until doubled in size.
- Shape the rolls: Punch down the dough and divide into 10–12 small oval rolls. Place on a tray, cover, and let rest for 30 minutes.
- Fry the rolls: Heat oil in a deep pan. Fry rolls in batches until golden brown on all sides. Drain on paper towels.
- Prepare the filling: Mix boiled potatoes with tuna, olives, harissa, and a drizzle of olive oil. Season to taste.
- Assemble: Slice each fried roll open lengthwise (without cutting all the way through). Fill with the tuna-potato mixture, slices of egg, and sprinkle parsley on top.
- Serve: Enjoy warm as a hearty snack.