The article on oula in Tunisia: a return to ancestral culinary traditions
In the rural areas of Tunisia, an ancestral culinary tradition called “oula” continues to be practiced. It is an artisanal method of preparing food reserves made from wheat, harissa and canned tomatoes. This practice, generally carried out at the beginning and end of summer, allows families to meet their food needs for part of the year. But it has also become a source of income for many women, especially housewives affected by the economic crisis.
In the coastal town of Kelibia, a dozen women gather to sell their oula products. Dried tomatoes, spices, chilli powder, harissa, homemade tomato sauce… These condiments are carefully prepared by these women who highlight their know-how and the artisanal quality of their products. Each year, they face challenges, such as rising inflation, which affects the supply of raw materials. Despite these difficulties, they remain attached to this tradition and continue to perpetuate it, while seeking to develop their activity.
The oula, much more than a culinary tradition, is perceived as a real craftsmanship beneficial to health. For Sarra Ben Arbia, a young woman living in Menzel Temim, the oula is a family tradition to be valued and passed on. She also launched her own brand two years ago, offering oula products with traceability, aimed at families who no longer have the time to prepare them themselves. She hopes to encourage other women to follow this path and participate in the preservation of this culinary tradition.
Oula also has economic benefits for families. By preparing their own food reserves, they are less dependent on price fluctuations in the market. This allows them to save money and deal with possible crises, such as the one caused by the Covid-19 pandemic. Food autonomy as well as the use of natural and quality products are strong arguments to promote the practice of oula.
Despite the many advantages of the oula, this tradition tends to be lost in the face of lack of time and the constraints of modern life. This is why it is important to support the women who perpetuate this practice and to raise public awareness of its benefits. The oula represents a real Tunisian culinary heritage and helps to preserve the authenticity and richness of local gastronomy.
In conclusion, the oula in Tunisia is much more than a culinary tradition, it is a real ancestral heritage that allows families to feed themselves while enhancing craftsmanship.. Despite the challenges these women face, they continue to perpetuate this practice and make it a source of income. It is essential to support and promote the oula in order to preserve this tradition and enhance the authenticity of Tunisian cuisine