Harissa Paste Recipe
Overview:
Harissa paste is a fiery and flavorful condiment originating from North Africa, particularly popular in Moroccan and Tunisian cuisines. This versatile paste adds depth and spice to dishes, making it a staple in many kitchens. This recipe yields approximately 1 cup of harissa paste and takes about 15 minutes to prepare.
Ingredients:
- 2 ounces dried chili peppers (such as guajillo and de Arbol)
- 2 cloves garlic
- 5 tablespoons water
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, plus extra for storing
- 2 teaspoons caraway seeds
- 2 teaspoons ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1 | Prepare the Dried Chilies: Soak the dried chili peppers in tepid water until softened, about 45 minutes to 1 hour. Once softened, drain and remove the stems and seeds. |
| 2 | Blend the Ingredients: In a blender or food processor, combine the softened chilies, garlic cloves, water, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Process until smooth, pausing to scrape down the sides as needed to ensure everything is well combined. |
| 3 | Add Seasonings: Transfer the blended mixture to a small bowl. Stir in the caraway seeds, ground coriander, and salt until evenly distributed. |
| 4 | Store the Harissa: Transfer the prepared harissa paste into a clean jar. To preserve it, pour a thin layer of olive oil over the surface of the paste. This helps create a seal that prevents air from reaching the paste and spoiling it. Always ensure that the paste is covered with oil after each use. Store the jar in the refrigerator for up to several weeks. |
| 5 | Variations: For a hotter version of harissa, you can use 4 ounces of dried guajillo chilies and 1/2 ounce of dried de Arbol chilies. Adjust according to your spice preference. |
| 6 | Harissa Sauce Variation: To make a sauce from harissa, mix 2 teaspoons of harissa paste with 3 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of water, and 1 tablespoon of finely chopped fresh parsley leaves. This sauce pairs wonderfully with grilled meats. |
Serving Suggestions:
Harissa paste can be used in various ways:
- Marinades: Use it as a base for marinades for meats, fish, or vegetables.
- Condiment: Serve alongside grilled meats or mixed into yogurt as a dipping sauce.
- Flavor Enhancer: Add to stews, soups, or couscous for a spicy kick.
- Sandwich Spread: Spread on sandwiches or wraps for added flavor.
Nutritional Information (per 1 cup):
- Calories: 633.3 kcal
- Total Fat: 33.9 g
- Saturated Fat: 4.7 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Sodium: 3595.4 mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 85 g
- Dietary Fiber: 33.5 g
- Sugars: 46.7 g
- Protein: 13.2 g
Recipe Notes:
- Harissa paste intensifies in flavor over time, so adjust the amount used according to your taste preferences.
- Always ensure the harissa paste is topped with olive oil to prevent spoilage.
- Experiment with different types of dried chilies to customize the heat level and flavor profile of your harissa paste.
Enjoy incorporating this bold and spicy harissa paste into your culinary creations! It’s sure to add a delightful North African flair to your dishes. 🌶️
