Harissa Paste

User Reviews

5

16 reviews
Excellent
  • Prep Time

    5 mins

  • Cook Time

    35 mins

  • Total Time

    40 mins

  • Servings

    2 cups

  • Calories

    807 kcal

  • Course

    Condiments

  • Cuisine

    African

Harissa Paste

Harissa Paste is a spicy North African chili sauce made by toasting dried guajillo and chipotle peppers, simmering them until softened, then blending with roasted red peppers, garlic, coriander, caraway, salt, and oil. This paste balances smoky, earthy, and spicy flavors with aromatic spices, creating a versatile condiment to add heat and depth to dishes.

Description

This Harissa Paste recipe begins by toasting dried guajillo and chipotle chilies in oil to awaken their smoky, aromatic qualities. After toasting, the chilies are simmered in water to rehydrate and soften them, producing a flavorful chili broth. The softened peppers and simmering liquid are then combined with roasted red bell peppers, garlic, ground coriander, ground caraway seeds, salt, and additional neutral oil in a food processor, resulting in a smooth yet slightly textured paste.

The paste carries a complex flavor profile thanks to the combination of dried chilies and warming spices like coriander and caraway, complemented by the sweetness of roasted peppers and the pungency of garlic. The oil helps preserve the paste and contributes to a smooth texture. Chilling the paste for at least 24 hours before use allows the flavors to meld fully and intensify.

Harissa Paste can be used as a marinade, condiment, or ingredient to add smoky heat and spice to meats, vegetables, stews, and dips. Adjusting the types and amounts of chilies allows control over the heat level, tailoring it to personal preference.

Taste and adjust the heat by varying the proportion or type of dried chilies used. Store the paste in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps well and develops deeper flavors over time.

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Ingredients

Servings
  • 8 dried guajillo chile peppers or New Mexico chile peppers
  • 2 dried chipotle chile peppers or Ancho chile peppers
  • cup neutral oil divided
  • 1 cup water
  • 2 roasted red bell peppers
  • 2 garlic cloves
  • 3 teaspoons ground coriander
  • 2 teaspoons caraway seeds ground
  • 1 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a non-stick medium skillet over medium heat. Add the dried chiles and dried chipotle peppers and toast until fragrant, about 5 minutes.
  2. Pour the water over the peppers and deglaze the skillet. Bring to a boil, then cover the skillet and simmer for 30 minutes.
  3. Transfer the rehydrated peppers to a food processor. Add the remaining oil, roasted red pepper, garlic, coriander, caraway and salt. Pulse until smooth and pureed, but it’s fine if it looks slightly broken.
  4. Transfer the mixture to an airtight glass container and place in the refrigerator for 24 hours before using for best taste.

Notes

  • Adjust the types and quantities of dried chilies to control the heat level of your harissa paste.

Nutrition Information

Show Details
Calories 807kcal (40%) Carbohydrates 31g (10%) Protein 5g (10%) Fat 78g (120%) Saturated Fat 6g (30%) Polyunsaturated Fat 22g (129%) Monounsaturated Fat 48g (240%) Trans Fat 0.3g (15%) Sodium 1711mg (71%) Potassium 823mg (18%) Fiber 13g (52%) Sugar 15g (30%) Vitamin A 10000IU (200%) Vitamin C 31mg (34%) Calcium 77mg (8%) Iron 3mg (17%)

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 2cups

Amount Per Serving

Calories 807 kcal

% Daily Value*

Calories 807kcal 40%
Carbohydrates 31g 10%
Protein 5g 10%
Fat 78g 120%
Saturated Fat 6g 30%
Polyunsaturated Fat 22g 129%
Monounsaturated Fat 48g 240%
Trans Fat 0.3g 15%
Sodium 1711mg 71%
Potassium 823mg 18%
Fiber 13g 52%
Sugar 15g 30%
Vitamin A 10000IU 200%
Vitamin C 31mg 34%
Calcium 77mg 8%
Iron 3mg 17%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.

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User Reviews

Overall Rating

5

16 reviews
Excellent

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