Spice level warning — Chorba is not what I expected

I underestimated Chorba. The fiery and aromatic description didn't prepare me for the reality. preserved lemon brings a heat or pungency that builds steadily rather than hitting upfront. By halfway through I was sweating but couldn't stop eating.

Tunisia is the world's third largest olive oil producer and olive oil underpins the cuisine. The a Tunis medina restaurant setting means locals eat this with ease while visitors like me reach for water. mint tea cut through it better than water would have. Don't order the mild version out of caution — the full version is the point. I'd go back. Three stars only because I wasn't warned.