| Easy Homemade Harissa Sauce |
Harissa is a versatile North African red chile paste or sauce mad... |
North African, Mediterranean, spicy, sauce, condiment, vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, low-carb |
{"title":"Easy Homemade Harissa Sauce","description":"Harissa is a versatile North African red chile paste or sauce made from simple ingredients such as chiles, garlic, olive oil, citrus, and warm spices. It is slightly sweet, smoky, tangy, and perfectly spicy without being too hot. This harissa can be made in advance to be used in various dishes.","short_description":"A versatile North African chile paste perfect for adding spice to any dish.","components":[{"name":"Harissa Sauce","ingredients":[{"name":"Dried New Mexico chiles","quantity":"7 whole chiles (or a combination with other dried hot chiles such as de arbol or chipotle)","preparation_notes":"Soak and seed","substitutions":["Guajillo chiles"]},{"name":"Roasted red peppers","quantity":"6 ounces or 2 large peppers, jarred","preparation_notes":"Drained","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Tomato paste","quantity":"2 tablespoons","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Garlic cloves","quantity":"4 large cloves","preparation_notes":"Peeled","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Caraway seeds","quantity":"1 teaspoon","preparation_notes":"Toasted and ground","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Ground coriander","quantity":"2 teaspoons","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Ground cumin","quantity":"2 teaspoons","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Smoked paprika","quantity":"1 teaspoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Cayenne pepper","quantity":"1\/2 teaspoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Kosher salt","quantity":"To taste","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Lemon juice","quantity":"2 tablespoons (juice of 1 large lemon)","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"Extra virgin olive oil","quantity":"2 tablespoons plus more for storage","preparation_notes":"Use quality EVOO","substitutions":[]}],"tools_and_equipment":["Food processor"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Soak the dried chiles in hot water for 30 minutes until tender and re-hydrated. Drain and remove stems and seeds.","tips":""},{"step_number":2,"description":"In a food processor, combine the chiles with roasted red peppers, garlic, tomato paste, caraway seeds, coriander, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne, a pinch of salt, and lemon juice.","tips":""},{"step_number":3,"description":"Run the processor, drizzling olive oil from the top. Scrape down the sides and process until a paste-like texture is achieved.","tips":"Taste and adjust seasoning."},{"step_number":4,"description":"Transfer to a mason jar and cover with a layer of extra virgin olive oil. Seal and refrigerate.","tips":"Allow flavors to develop for 1-2 days in the fridge for best taste."}]}],"prep_time":"40 minutes","cook_time":"0 minutes","total_time":"40 minutes","servings":"24 tablespoons","tags":["North African","Mediterranean","spicy","sauce","condiment","vegan","gluten-free","dairy-free","low-carb"],"notes":"For best flavor, let the harissa sit in the refrigerator for 1-2 days before using. Each batch can vary in heat depending on the chiles used. Adjust cayenne pepper to taste.","background":"Harissa originated from Tunisia and is used widely across North African and Middle Eastern cuisines. It is often compared to ketchup in its versatility, but with a far more complex flavor profile.","nutrition":{"calories":"13.4","protein":"0.1g","fat":"1.3g","carbohydrates":"0.6g","fiber":"0.2g","sugar":"0.2g"},"serving_suggestions":"Use in soups, stews, on meats, or to spice up hummus or eggs.","storage":"Store in a mason jar in the refrigerator for 2-3 weeks. Freeze in smaller portions for up to 1 month.","dietary_info":["Contains garlic"],"cooking_tips":["Soak peppers thoroughly to ensure easy blending.","Adjust spices to accommodate personal heat preference."],"variations":["Add chipotle chiles for a smoky flavor.","Use fresh chiles instead of dried for a different texture."],"ingredient_spotlight":"The use of New Mexico chiles brings mild heat and a distinct depth of flavor, ideal for controlling the spice level.","flavor_profile":{"sweet":3,"savory":7,"sour":4,"bitter":2,"umami":6},"geographic_region":"North Africa","seasonality":"Best in cooler seasons for warm dishes","sustainability_score":{"score":80,"details":"Use of local and seasonal peppers can enhance sustainability."},"occasion":"Suitable for everyday meals or as a special sauce for gatherings.","skill_level":"Intermediate","cost_estimate":5,"recommended_pairings":["Grilled meats","Vegetable stews","Hummus"]} |
