Harissa: North Africa's Icon Chili Paste

Tunisia's Gift to the World

Harissa is North Africa's most famous condiment — a fiery, aromatic chili paste. UNESCO recognized Tunisian harissa as Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2022.

Traditional Ingredients

• Dried red chilies (Baklouti variety preferred)
• Garlic (generous amounts)
• Caraway seeds (distinctive earthy note)
• Coriander seeds (citrus brightness)
• Cumin (warmth and depth)
• Olive oil (preservation and richness)

The Traditional Method

Chilies are sun-dried, rehydrated, seeded, and ground with spices. The paste is packed into jars and topped with olive oil for preservation.

Modern Uses

• Stirred into mayonnaise for a spicy spread
• Rubbed on roasted chicken or lamb
• Added to tomato sauce for arrabbiata-style pasta
• Mixed into hummus or baba ganoush

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