Tunisian carrot salad

Tunisian Carrot Salad Recipe - A Delicious and Healthy Salad from Tunisia

Region / culture: Tunisia | Servings: 4

Introduction

Tunisian carrot salad is a flavorful and vibrant dish that is perfect for a light and refreshing side dish. The combination of carrots, cumin, and cilantro creates a unique and delicious flavor profile that is sure to impress your taste buds.

History

Tunisian carrot salad is a traditional dish that is popular in Tunisian cuisine. Carrots are a staple ingredient in Tunisian cooking, and this salad is a great way to showcase their natural sweetness and crunch. The addition of cumin and cilantro adds a depth of flavor that is characteristic of Tunisian cuisine.

Ingredients

1.5 lb (680 g) of carrots, peeled and cut into 0.25 inch-thick rounds
3 tbsp of olive oil
2.25 tsp of ground cumin
0.25 tsp of cayenne pepper
0.5 cup of water
3 tbsp of white wine vinegar
0.33 cup of chopped fresh cilantro

How to prepare

Cook the carrots in a medium saucepan of boiling salted water until they are crisp-tender, which should take about 8 minutes.
Drain the carrots well. In a heavy large skillet, stir together the oil, cumin, and Cayenne over medium heat until it becomes aromatic, which should take about 30 seconds. Add the carrots, along with 0.5 cup of water and vinegar.
Simmer the mixture over medium heat until the liquid is absorbed, stirring often. This should take about 5 minutes.
Season the mixture with salt and pepper. Remove it from the heat and let it cool. Mix in the cilantro.
(This can be made 1 day ahead. Cover and chill. Bring it to room temperature before serving.)

Variations

Add a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of sumac for a tangy twist.
Mix in some chopped dates or raisins for a touch of sweetness.
Top with toasted nuts or seeds for added crunch.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the carrots until they are just crisp-tender to maintain their texture and flavor.

- Toasting the cumin and cayenne in the oil before adding the carrots helps to release their aromatic oils and enhance their flavor.

- Stir the carrot mixture often while simmering to ensure that the liquid is absorbed evenly.

Serving Suggestions

Tunisian carrot salad can be served as a side dish alongside grilled meats or fish. It also makes a great addition to a mezze platter or as a topping for sandwiches or wraps.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to cook the carrots until they are just crisp-tender to maintain their texture.

- Toasting the cumin and cayenne in the oil before adding the carrots helps to enhance their flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use ground coriander or paprika in place of cumin.

- Substitute parsley or mint for cilantro if desired.

Make Ahead Tips

This salad can be made 1 day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Bring it to room temperature before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the salad with a sprig of fresh cilantro or a sprinkle of paprika for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Tunisian carrot salad pairs well with grilled chicken, lamb, or fish. It also complements dishes with Middle Eastern or Mediterranean flavors.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

This dish contains about 180 calories per serving.

Carbohydrates

Carrots are a good source of carbohydrates, providing about 12 grams per serving.

Fats

Olive oil is a healthy source of fats, providing about 14 grams per serving.

Proteins

This dish is not a significant source of protein, providing about 2 grams per serving.

Vitamins and minerals

Carrots are rich in vitamin A, providing over 100% of the recommended daily intake per serving. They are also a good source of vitamin K and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe is gluten-free and dairy-free. However, if you have a nut allergy, be sure to check the ingredients for potential cross-contamination.

Summary

Tunisian carrot salad is a nutritious dish that is rich in vitamins and minerals. It is a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet.

Summary

Tunisian carrot salad is a delicious and nutritious dish that is easy to make and full of flavor. With its vibrant colors and aromatic spices, it is sure to be a hit at your next meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was drawn to it like a moth to a flame. It was a warm summer day and I was visiting my friend Sarah who had just returned from a trip to Tunisia. She invited me over for lunch and as we sat down at her table, she brought out a colorful bowl of carrot salad that immediately caught my eye.

The salad was a vibrant mix of shredded carrots, chopped parsley, and a tangy dressing made with lemon juice, olive oil, and a hint of cumin. The flavors were bright and refreshing, with just the right amount of zest to awaken the taste buds.

I couldn't help but ask Sarah for the recipe, and she happily obliged. She explained that the salad was a traditional dish in Tunisia, often served as a side dish or appetizer. The combination of sweet carrots and zesty dressing was a perfect balance of flavors that complemented each other beautifully.

As I savored each bite of the salad, I knew that I had to learn how to make it myself. Sarah kindly wrote down the recipe for me, and I made a mental note to pick up the ingredients on my way home.

Once I was back in my own kitchen, I gathered the carrots, parsley, lemon, and olive oil I needed to recreate the salad. As I grated the carrots and chopped the parsley, I couldn't help but think back to my time in Sarah's kitchen, watching her effortlessly prepare the dish.

I mixed the dressing together, tasting as I went to make sure the flavors were just right. The scent of cumin filled the air as I drizzled the dressing over the salad, tossing everything together until it was evenly coated.

When I took my first bite of the salad, it was like a burst of sunshine on my taste buds. The sweet carrots paired perfectly with the tangy dressing, creating a harmony of flavors that danced on my palate.

I couldn't wait to share this recipe with my family and friends, knowing that they would love it just as much as I did. Over the years, I have made this Tunisian carrot salad countless times, each batch a little different from the last as I tweak and adjust the recipe to suit my taste.

Whether I'm serving it at a family gathering or bringing it to a potluck with friends, this salad never fails to impress. The bright colors and bold flavors always draw compliments, with many people asking for the recipe so they can make it themselves.

I have come to cherish this recipe as not just a dish, but a memory of the time spent with Sarah in her kitchen, learning about a new cuisine and discovering a new favorite recipe. It has become a staple in my repertoire, a dish that I turn to time and time again when I want to brighten up a meal with a burst of flavor.

As I sit here now, reminiscing about that first taste of Tunisian carrot salad, I can't help but smile. It has become more than just a recipe to me – it is a connection to a place and a time that holds a special meaning in my heart.

And so, I will continue to make this salad, sharing it with those I love and passing on the tradition of this delicious dish for years to come. In every bite, I am reminded of the joy of cooking, the beauty of sharing a meal with others, and the power of a simple recipe to bring people together.