5 Delicious Algerian Dishes to Make at Home for this Winter

posted on: Feb 5, 2020

By: Jackson Chasen-Buckley/Arab America Contributing Writer

Searching for a delicious meal to satisfy your hunger this winter?

Arab America has compiled a top-five list of Algerian dishes that are sure to fill you up. The listed meals range from complete entrees to desserts. Even better, all of the dishes take only a maximum of one hour to cook. So pull out your chef hat and apron and gloss over some of Algeria’s best comfort foods.

Algerian Couscous

One of the most recognizable North African dishes, couscous, serves as both a delectable side and main course. It is created from crushed and ground wheat that is tossed around until it forms tiny little balls. Although these balls can be hand created, many people tend to use machines to speed up the process. Algerian couscous is often steamed over a simmered stew. Many variations of this Algerian dish are served with different kinds of vegetables. You can even add tomatoes to add variety. The best aspect of couscous is its versatility. You can use it as a side and keep things simple, or add extra vegetables. In addition, you can add protein and turn it into a complete meal. The possibilities are endless.

Check out this link for instructions on how to create your very own couscous.

Mkartfa

Traditionally prepared in the city of Constantine, mkartfa is a delectable pasta dish that is easy to prepare in your home. An important distinction with mkartfa is the pasta used for the dish. Unlike most Italian pasta, mkartfa utilizes semolina. This can either be store-bought or created from scratch. The dish is usually served with either a spicy red sauce or white sauce. Chickpeas are optional but are great for texture. In addition, mkartfa comes with a certain type of protein. This can range from chicken to eggs. When completed, this meal serves as wonderful, hot comfort food for any cold winter day.

Check out this link for instructions on how to prepare your very own mkartfa!

Berkoukes

Did the weatherperson just report temperatures of 0′ C? Time to pull out your pot and make some fresh hot berkoukes. Similar to mkartfa, berkoukes serves as another traditional North-African pasta. In addition, berkoukes utilizes semolina grains. The main ingredients include couscous, meat, and seasoned vegetables. As with the other listed foods, berkoukes is a diverse dish with many variations. Many people recommend adding a large variety of vegetables. These can comprise of carrots, onions, tomato, celery, and even turnips. Adding some protein is vital for this appetizing dish. Lamb is usually the preferred choice, however, there is nothing wrong with adding your preferred meat. Whatever your preference, his dish is sure to satisfy you with its rich North-African flair.

Check out this link for instructions on how to create your very own berkoukes.

Chakhchoukha

This gem of Algerian cuisine serves as a delightful stew that is perfect for a cold stay at home day. Popular for festive celebrations, chakhchoukha consists of small pieces of flatbread mixed with lamb, vegetables, and various spices. Similar to the other listed meals, the small pieces of flatbread are created with semolina. My favorite aspect of this dish is the diversity surrounding it. Many localities in Algeria all utilize different ingredients. The preparation methods can vary as well. Carrots, zucchini, and parsnip are very popular vegetables that bring out the flavor in the dish. Lamb and chicken are usually the top choices for protein. For extra spice, use dried red chiles and add more pepper. Overall, it is safe to say that chakhchoukha cements itself as a top Algerian dish.

Check out this link for instructions on how to make your very own chakhchoukha!

Mahjouba

One of the most unique dishes on this list, mahjouba is an Algerian crepe. Firstly, mahjouba is not just any crepe. The semolina pancakes are packed with tomato sauce any other vegetables. The dish usually served as a side and is a popular item for street vendors to sell. The dough is generally started from scratch, made from semolina wheat. On average, it takes around twenty minutes to create the dough. When it comes to filling, you a lot more room for variation and ingredient substitution. Along with the chopped tomatoes, onion is a popular vegetable to use for the filling. In addition, try adding chilies to the mix. They serve as a great way to give the mahjouba filling more spice and flair. Eat this dish for breakfast right before work or school and enjoy an energized day.

Check out this link for instructions on how to prepare your own mahjouba

For more Algerian dishes lists, news and entertainment, check out our blog!