Harissa Paste

Harissa paste is a North African condiment made from chili peppers, garlic, olive oil, and spices. It has a smoky, slightly sweet flavor and can be used for marinating meat, spreading on sandwiches, or topping vegetables. It's great for those who enjoy bold, spicy flavors.

Homemade Harissa Paste

Ingredients

• 1 cup dried Arbol chilies

• Small jar of roasted red peppers

• 1 Tablespoon tomato paste

• 3 garlic cloves

• 1 teaspoon caraway seeds

• 2 teaspoons coriander seeds

• 1 ½ teaspoon ground cumin

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper

• Juice of 1 lemo

• 1 ½ Tablespoon olive oil

• Kosher salt to taste

Method

1. Place the dried chilies in a bowl and cover with boiling water; cover and set aside for about 30 minutes or until tender and rehydrated. Drain off the water, and then cut off the stems and de-seed.

2. In a food processor or blender, combine the chilies with the roasted peppers, tomato paste, garlic, caraway seeds, coriander seeds, ground cumin, paprika, cayenne, lemon juice and salt

3. Pulse the mixture, adding olive oil a bit until you reach the desired texture. Be sure to scrape down the sides of the processor or blender to get all the ingredients. Add more salt if needed

4. Save the paste in a container and add olive oil to the top of the mixture to help preserve the flavor and keep oxygen out. Seal with a lid and refrigerate for up to 3 weeks