The Flavors of Algeria: 3 Dishes to try right now
If you were to take one look at the spice cabinet in my kitchen, you’d think we were in an international bazaar. The shelves are filled with coriander and zaatar. The pantry is well stocked with semolina and couscous. And there’s a never-ending supply of dates.
During this past month, my father who was born and raised in Algeria took part in Ramadan — 30 days of fasting from sunrise to sunset, prayer, and reflection. And while I didn’t participate, I fully enjoyed the food that came along with our dinners together. According to my Muslim cousins, “the fridge is always full during Ramadan.”
So, with a fresh bunch of parsley in hand, and lemons ready to be zested, let’s get to my top 3 Alergian recipes that are worth adding to your weekly rotation. Keep in mind that these recipes aren’t your time saving, thirty minute meals. They can’t be rushed, but trust me — they’re worth your time.
Shorba Freekah
This soup is not only a staple at any Ramadan dinner table, but a common dish all year round. With a base of tomato and vegetables, wheat grains (freekah) and lamb are simmered into a hearty soup. Spices in this dish include paprika, coriander, and tumeric. Commonly topped off with a squeeze of lemon and cilantro, this dish is sure to be a new favorite.
Chicken Tagine with Lemon and Olives
You’ll love this dish if you like the tang of olives and the freshness of lemon. Chicken is marinated in healthy portion of onion and garlic, plus classic medierrian flavors like cilantro, parsley, ginger, and turmeric.
Traditionally, this dish, like its name, is served in a tagine- a wide bottomed ceramic cooking vessel, with a cone shape cover. In our house, we simply use a large baking dish which yields the same results.
Burek
If I had to pick my all-time favorite Algerian food, Burek would top the list. Thin layers of phyllo dough are filled with a simple mix of sauteed ground beef, onions, salt, pepper, and cumin. Lightly pan-fried to golden, they’re delicious.
To take these up a notch, try adding mashed potatoes, eggs, or even soft cheese to the mix.
With the dishes above you’ll be able to take both your taste buds and your dinner guests on a Mediterranean adventure.
Which dish are you excited to try? Post a comment below to share which of these 3 dishes you’ll be making this week.