Merguez is a red, spicy mutton- or beef-based fresh sausage in Mahgrebi cuisine. Since the late 20th century, it has been popular in France and Great Britain due to the large Algerian populations.
Merguez is a sausage made with uncooked lamb, beef, or a mixture stuffed into a lamb-intestine casing. It is heavily spiced with cumin and chili pepper or harissa, which give it its characteristic piquancy and red color, as well as other spices such as sumac, fennel and garlic.
Merguez is usually eaten grilled. While not in traditional maghrebi couscous, it is often used in Couscous royal in France. It is also eaten in sandwiches and with french fries.