Brik is a traditional Tunisian pastry known for its delightful crispiness and savory filling. This dish consists of a thin pastry shell, typically made from malsouka or warqa dough, enveloping a filling of egg, tuna, capers, and parsley. The pastry is carefully folded into a triangular or crescent shape and then fried until golden and crispy. Brik is often enjoyed as a snack or appetizer, appreciated for its contrasting textures and rich flavors.

Brik has deep roots in Tunisian cuisine, reflecting the country's rich culinary heritage influenced by various cultures, including Arab, Turkish, and French. The origin of Brik can be traced back to the Ottoman Empire, where similar pastries were popular. Over time, Tunisian cooks adapted the recipe, incorporating local ingredients and flavors to create the unique Brik known today. This dish remains a beloved staple in Tunisian households and is especially popular during the month of Ramadan, where it is commonly served as part of the iftar meal to break the fast.

Ingredients:

- 4 sheets of brik pastry (or substitute with filo or spring roll pastry)

- 4 large eggs

- 1 can of tuna (in olive oil), drained

- 2 tablespoons capers, drained and rinsed

- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

- Salt and pepper to taste

- Vegetable oil for frying

- Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)

Method:

Prepare the Filling:

  - In a bowl, mix the drained tuna, capers, and chopped parsley. Season with a little salt and pepper.

Assemble the Brik:

  - Lay one sheet of brik pastry on a clean, flat surface. If using filo or spring roll pastry, use two sheets for extra strength.

  - Place a quarter of the tuna mixture in the center of the pastry.

  - Create a small well in the center of the tuna mixture and carefully crack an egg into it.

  - Fold the pastry over the filling to form a triangle or square, ensuring the edges are sealed. Use a little water to help seal if necessary.

Fry the Brik:

  - Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat.

  - Once the oil is hot, carefully place the brik in the pan. Fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the pastry is golden brown and crispy.

  - Remove the brik from the oil and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.

Serve:

  - Serve the brik hot, with lemon wedges on the side if desired.

Enjoy this crispy, savory Tunisian treat as a delicious appetizer or snack!

Nutrition Value:

4 Sheets of Brik Pastry (or substitute with filo or spring roll pastry)

 - Calories: 280-320 (approx. 70-80 per sheet)

 - Carbohydrates: 50g

 - Protein: 8g

 - Fat: 5g

 - Sodium: 400mg

 - Cholesterol: 0mg

 - Vitamins: Minimal amounts of Vitamin A, B vitamins

 - Minerals: Small amounts of iron and calcium

Benefit: Provides a source of carbohydrates for energy.

4 Large Eggs

 - Calories: 280 (approx. 70 per egg)

 - Carbohydrates: 2g

 - Protein: 24g

 - Fat: 20g

 - Sodium: 280mg

 - Cholesterol: 740mg

 - Vitamins: Rich in Vitamin A, D, E, B12

 - Minerals: High in selenium, phosphorus, zinc

Benefit: Excellent source of high-quality protein and essential nutrients, beneficial for muscle maintenance and overall health.

1 Can of Tuna (in olive oil), drained

 - Calories: 220-250 (depends on brand and oil content)

 - Carbohydrates: 0g

 - Protein: 30-35g

 - Fat: 10-15g

 - Sodium: 500mg (variable by brand)

 - Cholesterol: 70mg

 - Vitamins: B vitamins, especially B12 and niacin

 - Minerals: Selenium, phosphorus, magnesium

Benefit: High in lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids, supporting heart health and brain function.

2 Tablespoons Capers, Drained and Rinsed

 - Calories: 4

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

 - Protein: 0.4g

 - Fat: 0g

 - Sodium: 400mg

 - Cholesterol: 0mg

 - Vitamins: Vitamin K

 - Minerals: Iron, calcium

Benefit: Low-calorie flavor enhancer with beneficial antioxidants and some vitamins and minerals.

2 Tablespoons Fresh Parsley, Finely Chopped

 - Calories: 2

 - Carbohydrates: 0.4g

 - Protein: 0.2g

 - Fat: 0g

 - Sodium: 1mg

 - Cholesterol: 0mg

 - Vitamins: High in Vitamin K, Vitamin C, and Vitamin A

 - Minerals: Iron, calcium

Benefit: Rich in vitamins and antioxidants, supports immune function and bone health.

Salt and Pepper to Taste

 - Calories: 0

 - Carbohydrates: 0g

 - Protein: 0g

 - Fat: 0g

 - Sodium: Variable (salt contributes sodium)

 - Cholesterol: 0mg

 - Vitamins: None

 - Minerals: None

Benefit: Enhances flavor; use salt in moderation to manage sodium intake.

Vegetable Oil for Frying

 - Calories: 120 per tablespoon

 - Carbohydrates: 0g

 - Protein: 0g

 - Fat: 14g per tablespoon (mostly unsaturated fats)

 - Sodium: 0mg

 - Cholesterol: 0mg

 - Vitamins: Minimal amounts of Vitamin E

 - Minerals: None

Benefit: Provides essential fatty acids; choose oils with healthy fats like olive or canola oil.

Lemon Wedges (Optional, for Serving)

 - Calories: 4 per wedge

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

 - Protein: 0g

 - Fat: 0g

 - Sodium: 0mg

 - Cholesterol: 0mg

 - Vitamins: Vitamin C

 - Minerals: Potassium

Benefit: Adds a fresh, tangy flavor and provides a boost of Vitamin C, supporting immune health.