Tunisian Tuna Fricassé Sandwich

The Tunisian Tuna Fricassé Sandwich is a bold, spicy, and satisfying street food classic straight from the Mediterranean. With its unique blend of spicy tuna, crisp chopped salad, briny olives, and sliced eggs, all tucked inside a golden, pillowy roll, this sandwich offers layers of texture and flavor in every bite. It’s the kind of hearty yet refreshing meal that’s as perfect for lunch as it is for picnics, quick dinners, or street food-themed gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This sandwich packs a flavorful punch and delivers Mediterranean comfort in handheld form. Here’s why you’ll want to try it:

• Spicy and savory: Harissa-spiced tuna gives it a signature kick.
• Fresh and crisp: Balanced with a bright, herb-filled cucumber-tomato salad.
• Nutrient-rich: Packed with protein, veggies, and healthy fats.
• Street food made simple: No frying necessary—easy to make at home with everyday ingredients.
• Customizable: Make it mild or fiery, add more veggies, or serve it warm or cold.

Ingredients

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

• small sandwich rolls (or traditional fried fricassé-style buns)
• canned tuna in olive oil, drained
• hard-boiled eggs, sliced
• black olives, pitted and sliced
• cucumber, finely diced
• tomato, finely diced
• parsley, chopped
• lemon juice
• olive oil
• harissa (or more to taste)
• salt and pepper

Directions

1. In a bowl, combine the diced cucumber, tomato, chopped parsley, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well to make a fresh Tunisian-style chopped salad.
2. In a separate bowl, mix the drained tuna with harissa. Adjust the amount of harissa to suit your spice preference.
3. Slice open the sandwich rolls lengthwise, being careful not to cut all the way through. Lightly toast them in a dry skillet if desired.
4. To assemble, layer a generous scoop of spicy tuna into each roll.
5. Add a spoonful of the chopped salad, followed by slices of black olives and hard-boiled eggs.
6. Press the sandwich gently and serve warm or at room temperature.
7. Optional: Serve with extra harissa or a squeeze of lemon on the side for extra flavor.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4 sandwiches
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Calories per Serving: 340 kcal

Variations

• Add potatoes: Traditional fricassé often includes boiled potatoes—dice and add for authenticity.
• Make it vegetarian: Substitute tuna with chickpeas or mashed white beans and season with harissa.
• Use different bread: Try pita, baguette, or ciabatta if you can’t find fricassé buns.
• Add pickled veggies: Include pickled carrots or turnips for extra tang and crunch.
• Swap in sardines: A great alternative to tuna for richer flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Best enjoyed fresh. If needed, store components separately in the refrigerator and assemble just before serving.

Reheating: Reheat the bread slightly in the oven or skillet before assembling. Do not microwave assembled sandwiches to preserve texture.

Make-ahead tip: Prep the salad and tuna mix a few hours ahead for deeper flavor. Assemble right before eating.

FAQs

What is fricassé bread?

Traditionally, it’s a small, fried, slightly sweet bun found in Tunisian street food. This recipe uses a soft sandwich roll or ciabatta as a convenient substitute.

Can I use canned tuna in water?

Yes, but tuna in olive oil adds more richness and authentic flavor. Add a drizzle of olive oil if substituting.

Is this sandwich very spicy?

The heat depends on how much harissa you use. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste.

Can I add cheese to this sandwich?

While not traditional, a slice of mild cheese like mozzarella or provolone could be added for richness.

What pairs well with this sandwich?

Serve with crisp fries, pickled vegetables, or a cold yogurt-based drink for balance.

Is this a breakfast or lunch dish?

In Tunisia, it’s enjoyed throughout the day—breakfast, lunch, or as street food anytime.

Can I use hummus instead of harissa?

Yes, for a milder, creamier spread, hummus works well in place of harissa.

How can I make this gluten-free?

Use gluten-free rolls or wraps as the base.

Can I serve it cold?

Yes, it’s delicious both warm and cold, making it great for picnics and packed lunches.

What’s a good harissa substitute?

A mix of chili paste, smoked paprika, and olive oil can mimic the flavor in a pinch.

Conclusion

The Tunisian Tuna Fricassé Sandwich is a bold, balanced, and satisfying dish that brings the vibrant flavors of North African street food to your home. With spiced tuna, crisp salad, and hearty eggs packed into soft rolls, it’s a fresh and fiery twist on the classic sandwich. Whether for lunch, dinner, or your next international-inspired gathering, this recipe is sure to impress with its unique flair and irresistible taste.

Tunisian Tuna Fricassé Sandwich

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Spice up your sandwich game with this Tunisian Tuna Fricassé Sandwich! A beloved North African street food, it features spicy harissa tuna, crisp veggies, olives, and eggs inside a warm, tender roll. Packed with Mediterranean flavor, it’s an easy, crave-worthy meal that’s bold, balanced, and ready in minutes.

• Author: Asma
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 4 sandwiches
• Category: Lunch, Street Food
• Method: Assembled
• Cuisine: North African, Mediterranean

Ingredients

• 4 small sandwich rolls (or fried fricassé-style buns)

• 1 can tuna in olive oil, drained

• 2 hard-boiled eggs, sliced

• 1/4 cup black olives, pitted and sliced

• 1 small cucumber, finely diced

• 1 tomato, finely diced

• 2 tbsp parsley, chopped

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp harissa (or more to taste)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. In a small bowl, mix cucumber, tomato, parsley, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper to create a fresh chopped salad.

2. In another bowl, mix drained tuna with harissa until evenly combined.

3. Slice each sandwich roll open without cutting all the way through. Toast lightly if preferred.

4. Fill each roll with spicy tuna, a scoop of the chopped salad, olive slices, and slices of hard-boiled egg.

5. Press gently to close and serve warm or at room temperature.

6. Optional: add a squeeze of lemon or a dollop of extra harissa for more heat.

Notes

• Fricassé buns are traditionally fried but can be swapped for soft dinner rolls or sub buns for ease.

• Great for meal prep—prepare fillings in advance and assemble fresh.

• Add capers or pickled vegetables for extra tang and texture.