North African Merguez Sausage in French Supermarkets in Alsace

by Suzele
(Alsace)

Here's something you probably wouldn't have thought of when visiting France...and particularly Alsace...

It's a somewhat spicy sausage made of lamb called Merguez.

Merguez can vary from very mild to super spicy but what you find in the grocery store will be milder or well marked if it's not.

You can also get it at the butcher counter in the grocery store or at a local butcher's shop.

If you want the super spicy version, go to the nearest local market on market day.

You find it there as well.

Merguez isn't French, it's from North Africa but it's incredibly popular in France as all North African food is.

Maybe you know your French history and maybe you don't so I'll explain...

Most North African countries were French colonies about 150 years ago...think Morocco, Tunisia and Algeria...

In fact most of these countries still speak French and have dual language signs everywhere.

These Halal (Arab version of Kosher) sausages are easy to cook on the grill or in a frying pan (no oil necessary).

When they have shrunk down about 20 to 30 percent, they're ready to eat!

And for those of you who are looking for Kosher or Halal prepared foods, you will find a Halal section in almost every French grocery store.

North Africans are the largest minority population in France.

And if you're intrigued by the merguez, you'll also find plenty of North African restaurants serving couscous and mostly grilled meats.

Bon Appetit or A Gueta (in Alsatian)

Suzele