Harissa, what is it?

... a savory, delightful condiment. More precisely, it's a spicy and aromatic chili paste found in practically every house and restaurant throughout Tunisia. Of course, it's also a widely used staple in North African and Middle Eastern cooking in general. 

It's incredibly helpful in Western pantries too, and I'll tell you why... Are you ready? Let's dig in!

WHAT IS THE HISTORY?

The harissa debut goes back to the importation of chili peppers to the North African cuisine by the Columbian interchange, related to the European colonization and global trade after Christopher Columbus's travels from the 15th century and onward. I am very grateful for this part of the history ;) 

Fast-forward centuries, UNESCO listed Harissa in the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity on December 1, 2022​ for the world to recognize and appreciate the Tunisian know-how and heritage.

The name derives from an Arabic word, the translation of "to pound, break into pieces". That exactly that! In the processus, the washed and sun dried peppers are finely crushed and mixed to several other ingredients that will be listed shortly. 

That is where the mortar and pestle comes very handy. A beautiful and useful tool in the kitchen, I wish I can retrieve my mom's brass mortar, what a unique antique piece it was.

It's pronounced: "h'rissa" 

HOW IS IT MADE? 

While the recipes can vary from one region to another, here what forms the base of the ingredients: roasted or smoked Baklouti peppers, garlic paste, salt, caraway, coriander & cumin seeds, olive oil to carry the whole bunch of flavors! yumm.. 

The level of heat is also a characteristic that can be adapted to the preferences. 

It can be bought in jars, cans, or tubes in grocery stores, and the taste will vary with the brand purchased. But here's the thing: every family has its own recipe for homemade harissa, and if only I could give you a taste of my auntie's. Oh my...

=> There are a few brand of grocery stores in America where you can find decent ones like Trader Joe's, Whole Foods Market, HEB :)...

HOW IS IT USED? 5 ways 

DISCLAIMER: You are entering the most mouthwatering part of the article! 😉

When it comes to flavors and favorites, everything is subjective, so this guide will walk you through some of my favorite uses. However, I hope it will inspire you to create your own vibes.

1. Harissa with Olive Oil and Canned Tuna: Serve this as a mezze before meals, a popular appetizer in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines, with fresh bread or crackers, as shown in the picture placed in our Dora Wooden Plate. 

2. Roasted Cauliflower: Marinate cauliflower in harissa, extra virgin olive oil (EVOO), honey, garlic paste, salt, pepper, cumin, and fresh chopped coriander.

3. Protein Marinade: Use harissa, EVOO, garlic paste, salt, and pepper as a base to marinate shrimp, fish, poultry, lamb, or tofu. Adjust spices and herbs based on the main ingredient: try dry mint, cumin, and sumac with seafood, or ground and fresh coriander, green onions, and smoked paprika for meats. These are just a few inspirations.

4. In Soups and Saucy Dishes: Harissa can elevate the heat and deepen the flavors. It's perfect for families with varying tolerance to spicy food.

5. Savory Tarts: Spread harissa liberally on savory tarts. I love my tarts loaded and thick; lately, I’ve been making a salmon, artichoke, and ricotta tart that is to die for. I'll give you my recipe but please don’t die!

Bonus : Harissa does not contain acid or sugar, which makes it a healthier option than some other hot sauces that we probably all eat as well from time to time, don't get me wrong ha  

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Adopting a Mediterranean food is recognized as a healthy diet, and for those choosing this path, the national condiment of Tunisia should be in your pantry.

Now you have what's needed to try and find the one that works for your taste. Be creative with your food; it doesn't have to be complicated. Less is more!

As a matter of fact, watch this quick lunch recipe ;)

With love,

 

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