Zviti (Arabic: زفيطي), from Bou Saâda, is a traditional vegetarian Algerian dish.[1] Zviti, along with Chakhchoukha, is one of the most popular meals in the Ouled Nail and the Bousaada area.[2][3] It is also known as Slata Mahras, named after the big wooden mortar and pestle that is also used for cooking and serving the dish (Mahras).[4] This traditional meal is served on special occasions and holiday celebrations.

Zviti

Traditional Algerian zviti served in a mahras
Alternative names	zfiti, z'fiti, sfiti, batot, slata mehras
Place of origin	Algeria
Region or state	Bou Saâda
Serving temperature	Hot
Similar dishes	chakhchoukha
Other information	Accompaniments: Chili pepper, Lben
Media: Zviti

Origin

This dish originates from the city of Bou Saâda in Algeria. However, it is widespread in M'sila and in the small towns of Rommana, El Allig, Eddis, Oultem and all around the country.

Preparation

Zviti prepared using traditional Algerian Reqass bread or Kesra, which is produced with wheat flour without fermentation, pieces of this bread is broken down then added to a hot mixture of tomatoes and garlic that have been crushed in a mahras before hand, a variety of spices like chili, black pepper, ras el hanout are included, coriander, water and olive oil are also added. Green olives are also used in some regions, such as Bousaada and its surroundings.

References