Recipes
Kaskrout Tounsi: Tunisia’s Beloved Street Sandwich
If there’s one sandwich that defines Tunisian street food culture, it’s the Kaskrout Tounsi. Served in a crusty baguette or local bread roll, it’s generously stuffed with tuna, boiled potatoes, hard-boiled egg, olives, fresh vegetables, and of course a spoonful of fiery harissa. Simple, hearty, and bursting with flavour, this sandwich is the go-to snack for Tunisians of all ages.
Where Does It Come From?
The tradition of the kaskrout dates back to the French colonial period, when baguettes and European sandwich culture made their way to North Africa. Tunisia, however, gave this borrowed idea a completely new life by adding its own Mediterranean ingredients. Over time, the kaskrout evolved into a purely Tunisian creation, shaped by the country’s love for spice, seafood, and seasonal produce. Today, you’ll find kaskrout stands everywhere from busy markets to seaside towns.
Why Tuna in Tunisia?
At first, it may surprise visitors that tuna plays such a starring role in Tunisian sandwiches. But Tunisia has one of the richest fishing zones in the Mediterranean, with tuna caught off its coast for centuries. Canned tuna in olive oil has become a household staple, affordable and always available. Combined with harissa and eggs, it creates a protein-packed filling that is both practical and delicious.
When is it Eaten?
The beauty of Kaskrout Tounsi is its versatility. It’s eaten at lunch breaks by students, as a quick bite by workers, or as an afternoon snack shared with friends. In many Tunisian families, it’s the go-to option for road trips or beach days — easy to prepare, filling, and portable. During Ramadan, it often appears on iftar tables as a light, comforting dish after a long day of fasting.
Popularity of the Sandwich
The kaskrout isn’t just food — it’s culture. Every Tunisian has their favorite sandwich shop, and debates over who makes the best kaskrout are as lively as discussions about football teams. Its affordability makes it accessible to everyone, while its bold flavors have made it a symbol of Tunisian identity. For travelers, trying a freshly made kaskrout on the street is one of the most authentic and satisfying culinary experiences Tunisia has to offer.
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Kraskrout Tounsi
NUTRITION
Ingredients
- 1 Baguette
- 1 medium potato boiled and sliced
- 2 eggs hardboiled
- 1 can tuna drained
- 1-2 tbsp harissa to taste
- 1 tbsp mayonaise
- 1/2 cucumber sliced
- 1 tomato sliced
- 1 small onion sliced
- 6-8 black/green olives pitted and halved
- stalk fresh parsley chopped
- salt & pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil for drizzeling
Instructions
- Prepare the bread: Slice the baguette lengthwise but not all the way through, creating a pocket. Lightly drizzle the inside with olive oil.
- Spread the base: SmSpread the base: Smear harissa along one side of the bread (mix with a little mayonnaise if you prefer it less spicy).ear harissa along one side of the bread (mix with a little mayonnaise if you prefer it less spicy).
- Layer the fillings: Add the potato slices, tuna, egg, cucumber, tomato, and onion.
- Finish with toppings: Sprinkle over the olives and fresh parsley. Season with salt and pepper.
- Close and press: Gently press the sandwich closed so the fillings meld together. Slice into halves or quarters and serve immediately.