Tunisian packages (bricks)

Tunisian Brick – a culinary journey to the heart of the Mediterranean

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

When I think of my vacation in Tunisia, one of my fondest memories is the lunch enjoyed at a typical restaurant in the midst of a safari day. There, I discovered the delicious bricks, puff pastries filled with rich flavors that captivated me instantly. I would like to share this recipe with you so that you can bring a touch of this corner of the world into your kitchen. Bricks are versatile, they can be filled with a variety of ingredients and are excellent both as an appetizer and as a main dish.

Necessary ingredients

To prepare these delicious Tunisian packages, you will need the following ingredients:

- 250-300 g minced or finely chopped chicken (seasoned with Tunisian spices: cumin and spice blends like 4 épices; in their absence, use a little ground cumin and paprika)
- 2 medium potatoes, boiled and mashed
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, diced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped or grated
- 2-3 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped
- Optional: fresh or frozen vegetables (green beans, corn, peas), depending on your preferences
- 1 package of thin pastry sheets
- Oil for frying
- Salt to taste

Preparing the filling

1. Start by frying the chicken in a pan with a little oil until it is browned and well cooked. Make sure to season it with salt, cumin, and, if desired, a pinch of paprika for some heat.

2. In a large bowl, combine the fried chicken with the mashed potatoes, diced eggs, onion, and dill. If you like, add your preferred vegetables for extra flavor. Mix well until you get a homogeneous mixture.

3. Here’s a trick: if you want a richer filling, you can add a little grated cheese or lemon juice, which will cut through the fat and add a fresh taste.

Filling the pastries

1. Take the pastry sheets and cut them into squares of about 10x10 cm. Use two overlapping sheets to prevent tearing during frying.

2. Place a tablespoon of the prepared filling in the center of each square. Lightly moisten the edges with water to seal them well, then fold the square to form a triangle or rectangle.

3. Make sure the edges are well sealed so that the filling does not leak during frying.

Frying

1. In a deep pan, heat the oil over medium heat. It is important to use enough oil to cover the bricks halfway to achieve even frying.

2. When the oil is hot, carefully add the bricks without overcrowding the pan. Fry each side for 2-3 minutes until they are golden and crispy.

3. Once they are ready, remove them to a paper towel to absorb excess oil.

Serving

The bricks are served hot, preferably alongside a fresh salad of diced tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions, all seasoned with vinegar, salt, and a pinch of sugar. This mixture adds a pleasant contrast to the crispiness of the bricks. Additionally, a sour cream or garlic yogurt sauce is an excellent choice to complement this dish.

Calories and nutritional benefits

A serving of bricks (2-3 pieces) contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the ingredients used and the amount of oil absorbed. They are a good source of protein from chicken and eggs, and the added vegetables bring essential fiber and vitamins to your diet.

Possible variations

Bricks can be customized according to your preferences. Try replacing the chicken with fish, such as tuna, or even with feta cheese for a vegetarian option. You can add spices like coriander or turmeric to give them an even more complex flavor.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use frozen pastry sheets?
Yes, frozen pastry sheets are an excellent choice. Make sure to thaw them well before using.

2. How can I store bricks?
Fried bricks can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. You can reheat them in the oven to regain their crispiness.

3. Can bricks be prepared in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling a few hours in advance and fill and fry them when you are ready to serve.

4. What can I serve with bricks?
Bricks are delicious served alongside couscous, flavored with herbs and spices, or with a fresh salad. Additionally, a dry white wine pairs perfectly with these dishes.

In conclusion, Tunisian bricks are a wonderful choice for a delicious meal that will remind you of the warm sun and Mediterranean flavors, even in the comfort of your own home. Experiment with the ingredients and enjoy every bite!