Authentic Mechouia Salad Recipe

Authentic Mechouia Salad Recipe

Mechouia salad, also known as salata mechouia, is a popular North African dish, especially in Tunisia. It's a flavorful grilled vegetable salad combining smoky, charred flavors with fresh, zesty notes. The word mechouia means "grilled" in Arabic, highlighting the preparation method,
Prep Time 3 hours 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
2 hours
Total Time 3 hours
Servings: 4
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Tunisian

Ingredients
  

  • 4 onions
  • 5 tomatoes
  • 1 garlic bulb or several whole garlic cloves with the peel
  • 4-5 green Anaheim peppers
  • 2 bell peppers
  • 2-3 jalapeño peppers
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1-2-3 tbsps olive oil
  • olives
  • tuna El Manar
  • hard-boiled eggs

Method
 

  1. Step 1/10
  2. Clean and thoroughly dry all vegetables with skin.
  3. Step 2/10
  4. For the best flavor, char the vegetables over a charcoal grill. Work in small batches to ensure even cooking. Rotate the vegetables frequently to achieve an even char on all sides.
  5. Step 3/10
  6. Use a gas grill if a charcoal grill is unavailable. Char vegetables directly over a gas stove flame or place them under your oven’s broiler. Use care to prevent burning regardless of the method chosen.
  7. Step 4/10
  8. Once charred, transfer the vegetables to a plastic bag and seal it, or place them in a bowl and cover with plastic wrap.
  9. Step 5/10
  10. Let them cool and sweat for 10–20 minutes. This process loosens the skins, making peeling easier.
  11. Step 6/10
  12. Gently remove the outer skins, stems, and any seeds you prefer to omit.
  13. Step 7/10
  14. Place a few vegetables at a time in a food processor and pulse to your desired consistency—slightly smooth with small chunks is ideal. Repeat until all vegetables are processed, mixing the batches together. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as needed.
  15. Step 8/10
  16. Alternatively, use a fork and knife to chop or a mortar and pestle to mash the vegetables. Adjust the texture to your preference.
  17. Step 9/10
  18. Transfer the finished dish to a serving plate. Garnish with slices of hard-boiled eggs, high-quality tuna, olives, and a generous drizzle of olive oil.
  19. Step 10/10
  20. Pair with fresh baguette or homemade bread and enjoy!