Tunisian Brik | Authentic Crispy Pastry with Egg and Tuna Recipe
Tunisian Brik is one of Tunisia's most iconic street foods, featuring delicate pastry wrapped around a savory filling of tuna, egg, parsley, onions, and spices before being fried until perfectly crisp and golden. Traditionally made with thin malsouka pastry, Brik is renowned for its crunchy exterior and deliciously soft, runny egg center.
The filling combines flaky tuna, fresh herbs, onions, capers, and aromatic spices, creating a flavorful balance of savory, tangy, and herbaceous notes. During frying, the pastry becomes light and crispy while the egg gently cooks, resulting in a rich and satisfying texture with every bite.
Often served as an appetizer, snack, or light meal during Ramadan and family gatherings, Tunisian Brik is traditionally accompanied by fresh lemon wedges, allowing a squeeze of citrus to brighten the flavors. While tuna is the classic filling, variations with shrimp, chicken, minced meat, or vegetables are also popular.
Simple to prepare yet full of authentic North African flavor, Tunisian Brik is a delicious crispy pastry that showcases the rich culinary heritage of Tunisia.
Cooking Method
- In a bowl, combine the tuna, chopped onion, parsley, capers, harissa, cumin, salt, and black pepper.
- Lay one sheet of brik pastry on a clean, flat surface.
- Place one-quarter of the tuna mixture in the center of the pastry.
- Carefully crack one egg over the filling, keeping the yolk intact if possible.
- Fold the pastry into a half-moon or triangle, sealing the edges gently by pressing them together.
- Heat about 2 inches (5 cm) of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully slide the filled pastry into the hot oil and fry for 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- Repeat with the remaining pastries.
- Serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges for squeezing over the crispy Brik.
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