Zlebia is a beloved Tunisian spiral pastry made from a fermented batter piped into hot oil to form its signature looping, lacy shape. Once fried, it is soaked in a thick, glossy syrup flavored with honey, orange blossom, or saffron, giving it a deep amber sheen and fragrant sweetness. Slightly crunchy on the outside and sticky-soft within, Zlebia is especially tied to Ramadan evenings, when shop windows overflow with the pastry’s warm glow. The Sfax and Kairouan styles are particularly famous, reflecting Tunisia’s mastery of syrup-drenched sweets.

Regional Roots

• Tunisia