Are you ready to add some serious flavor to your table? Then you need to try Harissa!

It’s a beautiful condiment with exotic taste and a bit of kick (don’t worry, you can adjust the heat).

This paste is a simple preparation of peppers, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice and some other flavor enhancers. Give this one a try, we were blown away by the flavors!

What is Harissa?

Harissa is a pepper paste that’s popular in North Africa, and is most associated with Tunisia, Morocco and Algeria.

It comes from the Arabic word “harasa”, which means “to pound”, as the peppers traditionally get pounded. We’re going the easy way and using our blender!

Often used as a condiment, it’s also an ingredient in some popular dishes such as Harissa Chicken, which will be our next post.

Recently it has started gaining popularity in the west, so much so that jarred harissa is available in many supermarkets. But you know that homemade is always better, right?

What Does Harissa Taste Like?

Harissa has a complex flavor, combining smoky, sweet, tangy and spicy, with a notable hint of peppery (as in peppers, not black pepper).

It’s one of those very unique flavors. Like ourchicken paprikash, this one gave us a surprise, like “wow, that’s something I’ve never tasted before!”

If you love new and varied flavors, this one fits the bill.

How Spicy is Harissa?

As spicy as you want it. It all depends on the dried chilis you use. This particular recipe is quite mild, as we used Gujaillo and ancho chilis.

If you want a spicy harissa, add in 4-6 arbol chilis.

Ingredients

• Dry Red Chilis –Gujaillo and ancho.
• Roasted Red Peppers –jarred
• Garlic
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• Lemon Juice
• Spices –cumin, coriander powder, smoked paprika, cayenne and salt

How to Make Harissa

Soak the dried chili peppers for 30 minutes in hot water to rehydrate them.

Add all ingredients to a blender or food processor and blend until you have a smooth paste. Scrape down the sides a few times to get a uniform consistency.

Taste and adjust.

Variations

1. Instead of cumin and coriander powder, use seeds and lightly toast them.
2. Add one teaspoon of caraway seeds, which add a hint of licorice flavor.
3. 一个有趣的变异是玫瑰哈里撒。添加两个tablespoons each of dried rose petals and rose water.
4. You can up the smokiness factor by adding 1-2 chipotle chilis.

How to Use Harissa

This flavor enhancer is so versatile. Here are just a few ideas:

• Harissa makes a great condiment for grilled meats or seafood. In fact, it is considered the national condiment of Tunisia.
• Try it as a marinade for chicken or beef.
• Mix harissa with mayo for a super flavorful sandwich spread.
• Add a tablespoon or two to soups or stews for a new flavor profile.
• It’s the star ingredient for our harissa chicken!

Storage

Refrigerate leftover harissa in an airtight container for 2-3 weeks.

If you make a big batch and want to freeze some, freeze in an ice cube tray, then transfer the cubes to a freezer bag. That way you can thaw as much or as little as you want. Each cube equals about one tablespoon.

Bring these exotic flavors to your kitchen. We sure are glad we discovered this beautifully flavorful paste. When you try it, please leave a comment and star rating, I love to hear from you.

And be sure tosubscribeto GypsyPlate, we’re always cooking up tasty new recipes for you! Until next time…

Harissa, on our Gypsy Plate… enjoy!

Try these other great homemade sauces and condiments!
Cilantro Mint Chutney
Sweet and Sour Sauce
Vindaloo Paste
Salsa Verde
Salsa Taquera
Remoulade Sauce
Jerk Marinade
Chermoula