Harissa is a fragrant North African chilli pepper paste. It’s a staple ingredient in Maghrebi and Middle Eastern cuisine. The blend of hot peppers, garlic, and spices has a complex flavour profile that adds depth and heat to any meal.
Harissa is available in many variations, including harissa powder (or dried harissa), harissa paste (made from red bell pepper or rehydrated dried chiles) and rose harissa paste (with added rose petals or rose water).
We explore harissa in all its forms, the best substitutes and how to use harissa.
Try it in a harissa red lentil soup, add it to shakshuka or turn it into condiments and sauces like harissa mayo, harissa marinade, or harissa butter.