Harissa Paste
4 servings
10 minutes
Spicy and Smoky: Use as a marinade or condiment for a kick of North African flavor.
Nutritional Information
(per serving)
  • Calories: 50 kcal
  • Protein: 1g
  • Fats: 4g
  • Carbs: 3g
Ingredients:
  • 3 dried red chilies, soaked
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tsp cumin seeds
  • 1 tsp coriander seeds
  • 2 garlic cloves
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt to taste
Ingredient Availability:
Available at most grocery stores, including Whole Foods and Trader Joe’s. Specialty spice shops may have unique dried chilies and seeds.
Ingredient Availability in the UK:
Dried red chilies, tomato paste, cumin seeds, coriander seeds, garlic, and olive oil are widely available at Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Waitrose, Asda, and Morrisons. For a greater variety of chilies, try specialty shops like Borough Market or online retailers like Amazon UK. Ideal for creating this flavorful harissa paste!
Step 1: Toast the Spices
Toast cumin and coriander seeds in a dry pan for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 2: Blend
Blend the soaked chilies, toasted spices, garlic, tomato paste, olive oil, and salt into a smooth paste.
Step 3: Store and Serve
Store in a jar and refrigerate for up to two weeks.
Harissa Paste
Unlock the bold, smoky flavors of North African cuisine with homemade Harissa Paste. This versatile condiment is a staple in Tunisian, Moroccan, and Algerian cooking, and can elevate a variety of dishes with its vibrant spice blend. To prepare, simply toast a mix of chili peppers, cumin, caraway, and garlic until fragrant, then blend them into a smooth, fiery paste. The resulting Harissa Paste delivers a complex, layered heat that is both earthy and fruity, with a hint of smokiness from the toasted spices. Once prepared, this Harissa Paste can be used in countless ways. Stir it into soups, stews, and tagines for an instant flavor boost. Rub it onto meats and roasted vegetables before cooking for a spicy kick. Or mix it into dips, spreads, and marinades to infuse your favorite Mediterranean-inspired recipes with bold, Tunisian flair. The possibilities are endless! For maximum freshness and flavor, we recommend making a batch of this Harissa Paste ahead of time and storing it in the refrigerator. That way, you can easily reach for it whenever you need to add a burst of North African heat and spice to your cooking. Serve this versatile condiment alongside pita bread, roasted potatoes, or your favorite grilled or roasted proteins for a truly authentic taste of the Mediterranean. Get ready to experience the vibrant, complex flavors of Harissa Paste in your own kitchen!
Our team of photographers worked on multiple variations of recipe photos and their sequences. Achieving the desired result on the first try wasn’t always possible. As a result, the appearance of ingredients may vary slightly depending on the recipe steps. We strive to deliver the highest quality possible!