Ain Sebniouria – Ingredients and Preparation Method

Ain Sebniouria – Ingredients and Preparation Method

Ain Sebniouria is a classic Tunisian dish that reflects the country’s rich history of diverse cultures, influenced by Berber, Turkish, Arabic, French, Spanish, and Italian cuisines. This dish, created by Tunisians as a welcoming gift for new arrivals from Andalusia, combines minced meat, eggs, and various spices, making it nutritious and perfect for family gatherings and Ramadan feasts.

Ingredients (for 10 people):

Ain Sebniouria


  • 6 eggs, beaten
  • ½ kg finely minced meat
  • 2 cups olive oil
  • 1 bunch finely chopped parsley
  • 1½ cups canned tuna
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon mixed spices
  • 1 tablespoon black pepper
  • 4 tablespoons tomato sauce
  • 1 finely chopped onion
  • 3 cups water
  • 1 cup grated cheese
  • 1 tablespoon salt
  • ½ cup grated cheddar cheese
  • 2 cups oil for frying

Preparation Steps:

  1. Prepare the Meat Mixture: In a large bowl, mix together the minced meat, black pepper, salt, and spices.

  2. Prepare the Filling: In another bowl, combine the chopped parsley, tuna, grated onion, grated cheese, and one raw egg. Mix well and season with black pepper and salt.

  3. Prepare the Sauce: Sauté the chopped onion in olive oil over medium heat until softened. Add the tomato sauce and water, stirring to combine. Let the sauce simmer over low heat until it thickens.

  4. Season the Sauce: Add the spices, salt, and black pepper to the sauce, stirring to blend the flavors. Remove from heat.

  5. Shape the Meat Rolls: Divide the seasoned minced meat into two portions. Flatten one portion with a rolling pin into a thin sheet.

  6. Fill and Roll the Meat: Place a small amount of the filling on each meat sheet, smoothing it down with your hand. Place a boiled egg on top.

  7. Form the Roll: Roll the meat around the filling, forming a cylinder. Gently press to keep the filling inside, then secure the roll with kitchen twine to prevent it from opening during cooking.

  8. Fry the Meat Roll: Heat oil in a skillet and fry the meat roll until browned on all sides.

  9. Cook in Sauce: Place the fried meat roll in the prepared sauce and simmer over low heat for 5 minutes.

  10. Bake to Finish Cooking: Transfer the meat roll to a foil-lined baking tray, add 2 cups of water, and bake in a preheated oven at a low temperature for 50 minutes until fully cooked.

  11. Serve: Remove from the oven, cut the twine, and slice the meat roll. Serve hot with the sauce on top.

Ain Sebniouria is now ready to be enjoyed, bringing the rich flavors of Tunisian heritage to your table. Bon appétit!

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