Fiery, paprika-red sausages of lamb and beef seasoned with harissa, cumin, and fennel, grilled until smoky and snappy.
Nutrition & Info
Equipment Needed
Presentation Guide
Vessel: grilling platter
Garnishes: harissa, lemon wedges, fresh parsley
Accompaniments: crusty bread, tomato salad
Instructions
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1
Mix ground lamb and beef with harissa, paprika, cumin, fennel, garlic, salt, and pepper. Combine very thoroughly.
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2
Refrigerate the mixture for thirty minutes to allow flavors to meld and the meat to firm up for stuffing.
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3
Soak lamb casings in warm water with vinegar for twenty minutes, then rinse thoroughly inside and outside.
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4
Stuff the seasoned meat mixture into the casings, twisting into links about twelve centimeters long each.
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5
Grill merguez over medium-high charcoal for eight to ten minutes, turning frequently until cooked through and charred.
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6
Serve hot off the grill with crusty bread, harissa, and a simple salad of tomatoes, onions, and fresh herbs.
Did You Know?
Merguez has conquered France to become one of the most popular sausages there, but Tunisians insist theirs remains the spiciest original.
Chef's Notes
Equipment Tips
- meat grinder
- sausage stuffer
- grill or skillet
Garnishing
harissa, lemon wedges, fresh parsley
Accompaniments
crusty bread, tomato salad
The Story Behind Merguez
Merguez is Tunisia's gift to the global sausage world. These fiery links originated with the Berber peoples of North Africa, who seasoned lamb with local spices and dried peppers. The sausage gained international fame through Tunisian immigrants in France, where it became a fixture of barbecues and street food. Authentic Tunisian merguez uses only lamb and beef, never any other meat, with harissa providing its signature heat and red color.
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