Harissa is a flavorful, spicy paste that hails from North Africa, especially Tunisia, and is widely used across Morocco, Algeria, and Libya. It’s made from dried chili peppers, garlic, spices, and olive oil, and adds depth, heat, and complexity to a variety of dishes. Harissa can be used in soups, stews, grilled meats, or as a condiment for couscous or bread.
Ingredients (for the original harissa recipe)
- 10-12 dried red chili peppers (adjust to taste for spice level)
- 4 garlic cloves, peeled
- 1 tbsp ground cumin
- 1 tbsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp ground caraway seeds (optional, but traditional)
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 tbsp olive oil (more if needed for consistency)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt to taste
Instructions
1. Prepare the Dried Chilies
- Remove the stems and seeds from the dried chilies.
- Soak the chilies in hot water for 15-20 minutes, until softened. Drain and set aside.
2. Make the Harissa Paste
- In a food processor or mortar and pestle, combine the soaked chilies, garlic, cumin, coriander, caraway seeds, and tomato paste.
- Process or grind the mixture until you have a smooth paste.
- Gradually add olive oil while blending to reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thick, add more oil or a splash of water.
- Stir in lemon juice and salt to taste.
3. Store and Use
- Transfer the harissa to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to two weeks. You can also drizzle a bit of olive oil over the top to help preserve it.
How to Use Harissa
- As a Marinade: Perfect for meats, especially chicken, lamb, or fish.
- In Stews and Soups: Add a spoonful to bring a rich, spicy flavor.
- With Couscous or Rice: Stir in harissa to flavor the grains.
- As a Condiment: Use it as a topping for flatbreads, grilled vegetables, or sandwiches.
Variations of Harissa
- Sweet Harissa: Add a bit of honey or sweet peppers for a milder, sweeter version.
- Herbed Harissa: Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro or mint to freshen up the flavor.
- Smoky Harissa: Use smoked chili peppers for a deeper, smoky flavor.
Harissa is a versatile and vibrant condiment that can transform any dish with its fiery and aromatic profile.
