Tunisian harissa recipe is a spicy paste made from chili peppers, the main ingredients are red peppers, garlic cloves, olive oil, and spices such as cumin seeds, coriander seed and caraway seed and a touch of fresh squeezed lemon juice.
Tunisian harissa recipe is a staple ingredient in Tunisian cuisine. It is used to add heat and flavor to dishes such as soups and stews and couscous. It is Tunisia's main condiment.
Harissa can also be used as a marinade for meats or as a spread on bread.
Homemade harissa is known for its fiery flavor. It is a popular hot sauce in North African and Middle Eastern cooking especially in the Maghreb and saharan regions.
Is Tunisian Harissa Recipe Hot?
You can make harissa paste as hot or mild as you like based on your heat level. It has a complex flavor. It uses a combination of dried red chili peppers and hot chili peppers. Some people use red bell peppers if they don't like heat.
Tunisian harissa recipe can be made in a food processor or blender, you will love this traditional condiment that is a thick paste sauce. You can choose how hot on the scoville scale you want to make it. You can use whole spices and then grind them up in your spice grinder. The ground spices along with the dried chilies make a smokey flavor that is addictive and will delight your taste buds.
Did you know that Tunisia is the world's largest exporter of harissa? You can buy it in your local grocery stores in the United States but there is nothing like making your own harissa sauce at home. It will keep for several weeks in a glass jar in your refrigerator. Just top it off with a thin layer of olive oil after each use. Harissa has been around since the spanish introduced peppers back in the 16th century, its a keeper!
Traditional harissa is a special condiment that you will make over and over again.
Looking for more delicious recipes to enjoy with your Harissa?
Try Tunisian lamb couscous for a main course
And Mechouia Salad for a delectable lunch or first course.
Tunisian Yoyo's are a delicious way to end your Tunisian Meal
If you would like to learn more about this North African country, its traditions, food and culture be sure to check out “Our Journey to Tunisia” there you will also find more authentic and ancestral recipes like this popular Tunisian harissa recipe.
Craving even more? Be sure to join the culinary and cultural journey around the world, so you don’t miss a thing, it’s free. You can also follow me on social media Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest and youtube to follow along our journey.
Tunisian Harissa Recipe
Ingredients
- 16 dried red chilies (New Mexico or Gujjillo)
- 1/4 tsp caraway seeds
- 1 tsp coriander seeds
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 3 Tbsps Olive oil extra virgin
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 Tbsps lemon juice freshly squeezed
Instructions
- Remove the stems and membranes of the dried chilies. If you want it really hot you can leave the membrane in.
- Re-hydrate the chilies by placing them in a bowl and pouring over boiling water. let them soak for about 20 minutes.
- Meanwhile in a small skillet over medium heat, dry roast the caraway, coriander and cumin seeds. Make sure to stir them frequently and do not let them burn. Roast until fragrant, this should take just a few minutes.
- Let them cool completely and put them into your spice grinder or alternatively you can use a mortar and pestle. Grind them into a fine powder.
- Next, drain the chilies using gloves remove as much liquid as possible.
- Add them into a food processor or blender along with the spice blend, olive oil, garlic, salt and lemon juice.
- Blend until it becomes a smooth paste, you can add more olive oil if necessary.
- Transfer to a glass jar and top with a bit of olive oil.
- Keep in refrigerator until ready to use. This will last several weeks in the refrigerator just add a thin layer of olive oil after each use.
