Easy Harissa Recipe
Ingredients
- 7 Dried New Mexico Chiles or Guajillo Chiles
- 6 oz jarred roasted red peppers
), drained rinsed, and dried (2 large peppers
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 4 large garlic cloves
peeled
- 1 tsp caraway seeds
), toasted and ground (use a mortar and pestle, grinder or food processor
- 2 tsp ground coriander
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper
- Kosher salt
- Juice of 1 large lemon
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 2 tbsp quality extra virgin olive oil
more for later
Directions
- 1
Soak and prepare the dried chiles. Place the dried chiles in a heat-safe bowl and cover with hot water. Set aside for 30 minutes until the chiles are tender and re-hydrated. Drain the chiles and remove the stems and seeds.
- 2
Combine chiles with the remaining ingredients. Transfer the chiles to the bowl of a large food processor fitted with a blade. Add the tomato paste, roasted red peppers, garlic, ground caraway seeds, coriander, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne (if using), and a large pinch of kosher salt. Add fresh lemon juice.
- 3
Make the harissa paste. Run the food processor, and while it’s running, drizzle the extra virgin olive oil from the top opening. Stop the processor to scrape down the sides and run again until you reach the desired paste-like texture. Taste and adjust seasonings to your liking (remember that harissa paste will deepen in flavor as it sits in the fridge over the next day or two).
- 4
Store. Transfer the harissa paste to a clean mason jar. Cover with a very thin layer of extra virgin olive oil, then cover the jar with its lid tightly and refrigerate.
Easy Harissa Recipe
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About this Recipe
Craving a vibrant, flavorful kick to elevate your meals? This easy harissa recipe delivers a versatile, aromatic paste that transforms everything from simple roasted vegetables to hearty stews. Forget store-bought; you'll love having this authentic, homemade condiment ready in just minutes.
This harissa recipe works because it combines the rich, smoky depth of dried chiles with the sweetness of roasted red peppers, bright acidity from lemon, and a complex blend of warm North African spices. The result is a balanced, deeply flavorful paste that's surprisingly simple to prepare, letting you enjoy restaurant-quality taste at home.
What you can expect is a robust, aromatic paste with a beautiful red hue. Its flavor profile is a delightful dance of smoky heat from the chiles and cayenne, earthy warmth from cumin and coriander, and a subtle tang from fresh lemon juice and tomato paste. The garlic provides a pungent base, while the caraway seeds add a unique, slightly anise-like note. The texture will be smooth, making it perfect for spreading, stirring, or marinating.
Customization & Variations:
- This harissa is incredibly versatile! Use it to add a spicy, savory layer to grilled meats like chicken and fish, or toss it with roasted vegetables for an instant flavor boost.
- Stir a spoonful into your favorite soups or stews for an extra layer of warmth and complexity.
- For a flavorful breakfast or brunch, swirl a dollop into shakshuka or mix it into hummus to liven up your dips.
This vibrant harissa is perfect for adding an exotic touch to everyday meals or serving alongside a Mediterranean-inspired spread for a more festive occasion.