If you would like a chance to get a taste of Tunisia without leaving Washington, DC, then attend an evening of food and music at the Tunisia  Ambassador’s Residence. The program includes traditional Tunisian music in an intimate setting, followed by a dinner of Tunisian food.

The Tunisian Republic is the smallest and northern most of all of the African nations, about the size of Georgia and is closest to Europe (Sicily). About 40% of the country covers the Sahara desert. 

The country’s current government is considered one of the most progressive in the Arab region, repressing religious fundamentalism and establishing civil rights for women, yet there are still significant limits on free speech and human rights. 

The ancient Phoenician city of Carthage, now part of the suburbs of Tunis, is the nation’s capital city. And over its long history, Tunisia has had it’s share of famous battles, from ancient Roman times to the scene of the first major battles in North Africa during WW-II, which pitted the allies under Field Marshal Montgomery against the Dessert Fox, German General Rommel.

As a result, Tunisian cuisine has been influenced by the many foreign traders and invaders throughout its history, blending Arabian, Mediterranean, Asian, Turkish, Indian, French and Italian (Roman) as well as native Berbers ingredients and flavors. Similar to many Mediterranean basin countries, the cuisine includes olives and olive oil, tomatoes, lamb and fish from the Mediterranean as well as some local favorites based on firey spices including Tabil, a blend of spices (red chili or cayenne pepper, coriander, caraway and air dried garlic) and a popular and fragrant pepper sauce from southern Tunisia called Harous.

An Evening of Music and Food of Tunisia
Tunisian Ambassador’s Residence
5131 Broad Branch Road, NW
Washington, DC (map it)

Dates and Times – Saturday, June 14, 2008, 7:30 p.m.

Tickets – $150.00 and includes a full buffet. Available online or by phone at 202-271-7976. 

Nearest Metro Subway Station – Friendship Heights, Red line, then a 1¾ mile walk or cab ride.

Parking – Limited street parking is available.

Images – Flickr – herder, Tunis

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Post from: The DC Traveler