Homemade Harissa Recipe

dried red chilies

🥗Healthier: fresh red peppers

💰Cheaper: cayenne pepper

Fresh peppers provide a milder flavor, while cayenne is more accessible.

olive oil

🥗Healthier: avocado oil

💰Cheaper: sunflower oil

Avocado oil offers a similar richness, while sunflower oil is more cost-effective.

De-seed and remove stems from the dried peppers.

Lightly toast the peppers in a dry pan over medium heat for 1-2 minutes per side until puffed and fragrant.

Add the toasted peppers to a bowl and pour hot water over them to cover. Soak for about 20 minutes until softened.

Toast caraway, coriander, and cumin seeds in the dry pan for 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant.

Grind the toasted seeds using a mortar and pestle or spice grinder.

Drain the softened peppers and add them to a food processor with the ground spices, salt, garlic, lemon juice, roasted red bell pepper, and tomato paste.

Process until a thick paste forms, then add olive oil while processing until well combined and smooth.

Optionally strain the harissa through a food mill for a smoother texture.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary