5 savory African dishes that make olives shine
What's the story
African cuisine is famous for its rich flavors and diverse ingredients, among which olives are a staple. These small fruits add a unique taste to several traditional dishes across the continent. From savory stews to refreshing salads, olives are used in various ways to enhance the culinary experience. Here are five delightful African dishes that highlight the versatility of olives and their contribution to regional gastronomy.
Dish 1
Moroccan olive tapenade
Moroccan olive tapenade is a delicious spread made from finely chopped olives, capers, garlic, and olive oil. This dish is usually served as an appetizer or snack with bread or crackers. The combination of salty olives and tangy capers gives the tapenade a robust flavor that goes well with many other dishes. It's commonly enjoyed at social gatherings or as part of a traditional Moroccan meal.
Dish 2
Algerian olive salad
Algerian olive salad is a refreshing mix of green olives, tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions drizzled with lemon juice and olive oil. This colorful salad makes for a perfect side dish or light meal on its own. The crisp vegetables complement the briny taste of the olives, making it a popular choice during warm weather months when fresh produce is abundant.
Dish 3
Tunisian brik with olives
Brik is a Tunisian pastry stuffed with different fillings, including olives. The dough is thin and crispy, encasing a mixture of mashed potatoes or vegetables mixed with chopped olives. These pastries are usually deep-fried until golden brown and served hot as snacks or appetizers at special occasions.
Dish 4
Libyan olive tagine
Libyan olive tagine is a slow-cooked stew that combines tender vegetables like carrots and potatoes with juicy green olives in aromatic spices like cumin and coriander powder. Cooked in traditional clay pots called tajines over low heat for hours, this dish develops deep flavors that are best enjoyed over steamed couscous or rice.
Dish 5
Egyptian stuffed vine leaves with olives
Egyptian stuffed vine leaves (also called warak enab) are grape leaves stuffed with rice mixed with herbs such as dill and mint, along with chopped black olives for added flavor. They are simmered in tomato sauce until tender enough to be rolled tightly without breaking apart easily when served warm alongside yogurt dip sauces, making them an ideal appetizer option during festive gatherings.