There are many, many versions of Basboussa ( and many spelling variations!) throughout the Arab world. Some of these are a spongy cake-like texture & some are more of a grainy texture. This Algerian version is more of a cake-like texture – which happens to be my favourite. I absolutely love the addition of coconut in the recipe, it really adds something to the Basboussa. This recipe is extremely simple to make & is delicious served with coffee or tea. It is definitely a Ramadan staple in our home!
These eggs are poached in a delicious in a pepper ragout. This dish, with many variations, is a popular breakfast in North Africa, especially in Algeria and Tunisia. Most recipes include the eggs, but they can actually be left out as well for Vegetarians that do not eat eggs. VARIATION: Sometimes fresh shrimp or a spicy lamb sausage called merguez is added to the simmering peppers along with the eggs.
I am not sure if that is how you spell it! I saw the recipe in “The Great Book of Couscous” and they called it Karantika. This is popular in Algeria (and made in my house a few times per week). It is best served sliced with bread and a bit of harissa or on crackers. Baking time can be decreased to make a mushier version. A food processor is used to make sure you get a smooth combination of ingredients. Chick pea flour can be found in Indian Grocery Stores. It is called “Besan”.
I was looking for a recipe to round out my A to Z cookbook and this sounded good. From a website for missionaries to Africa. This was pretty good. It would also be good with some beans added, or served over some brown rice.
This is a popular dish among Zimbabweans. It’s very basic and is served often. You can use canned pumpkin, but you may need to adjust water to get the right texture. Prep time does not include cooking pumpkin. Posted for ZWT.