In many regions of Algeria, one of the most beautiful Eid traditions is preparing Eid Bread – a soft, brioche-style bread decorated with eggs. Sometimes a single egg is placed in the center, other times several eggs are used, often dyed in bright colors. It’s a bread full of meaning, joy, and childhood memories, especially for the little ones who receive it as a festive treat.

In the Amazigh language of the region, it’s called Aghrum n Lεid or Tharthounth, while in local dialects you might hear names such as Rtouneh, Hloula, Hnionat, or Hnouna. This tradition is especially common in Blida, Cherchell, Miliana, and Tenes – the historic towns of our area.

This custom is very old, possibly pre-Islamic, and similar traditions are found across the Mediterranean, even among Christians and Jews during Pâques (Easter), and historians mention that the ancient Egyptians exchanged colored eggs more than 5,000 years ago as a symbol of renewal, optimism, and happiness.

In Blida, it’s called Khubz El Eid or Hniouna El Eid (Thahnounth meaning “small bread” in local Amazigh). In Miliana and Cherchell, they say Hnionat, while in Tenes it’s Artoun or Artouna. Often, the mother or grandmother colors the eggs for the children, or the children enjoy coloring them themselves. All this creates a joyful, warm atmosphere on the morning of Eid. Some families even prepare it to celebrate the arrival of spring.

It’s a beautiful tradition that many families still maintain today – one we must preserve to keep our identity alive.
Eid Mubarak to all!

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Ingredients

(for a soft, fluffy brioche-style Eid bread)

• 1 cup warm water
• 1 cup warm milk (or replace water with milk for a richer dough)
• 2 tbsp instant yeast
• 2 eggs
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• All-purpose flour (as needed, to form a soft dough)
• ½ packet baking powder (about 5–6 g)
• Whole eggs (boiled) – plain or dyed, for decoration

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Instructions

Step 1 – Activate the Yeast

1. In a mixing bowl, combine warm water, warm milk, and yeast.
2. Mix well and let sit for 5 minutes to activate the yeast.

Step 2 – Prepare the Dough

1. Add eggs, oil, sugar, and salt to the yeast mixture.
2. Gradually add flour while mixing until you get a soft, slightly sticky dough.
3. Add the baking powder and knead for 5–7 minutes until smooth.

Step 3 – First Rise

1. Cover the dough with a clean towel or plastic wrap.
2. Let it rise for about 30 minutes in a warm place, or until doubled in size.

Step 4 – Shape the Bread

1. Punch down the dough and shape into round or braided loaves.
2. Place one or more boiled eggs (plain or dyed) in the center for decoration.
3. Place the shaped breads on a greased baking tray.

Step 5 – Bake

1. Brush the top with egg wash (optional) for a golden crust.
2. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown.

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Tips & Variations

• For an extra soft texture, use only milk instead of water.
• Dye the eggs in bright colors for a festive look.
• Add anise seeds or orange blossom water for traditional aroma.