Exploring the Depths of Flavour: The Sauce Harissa

The sauce harissa is a vibrant, spicy, and incredibly flavourful condiment that has captivated palates around the world. Originating from North Africa, this versatile sauce has become a staple in many kitchens, adding a fiery kick to a wide variety of dishes. Here at Saucerer HQ we are a little obsessed with this powerhouse sauce, we love the punchiness and depth it offers. Check out more reasons why we chose to include it in our Roasted Aubergine & Spicy Harissa sauce below.

The Taste of Harissa

Harissa sauce boasts a dynamic taste profile characterised by a blend of heat, smokiness, and earthiness, underpinned by a subtle sweetness from the peppers. The fiery kick from the chili peppers is balanced by the aromatic warmth of spices like cumin, coriander, and caraway, creating a complex and invigorating flavour. Those who relish bold, spicy foods will find harissa sauce particularly appealing, as it adds a vibrant, flavourful punch to any dish. Conversely, individuals who prefer milder, less spicy flavours might find harissa too intense (why not try our creamy mild Wild Mushroom & Black Truffle pesto instead >>). For many, the taste of harissa will evoke memories of North African cuisine, with its rich and aromatic dishes that tantalize the senses with every bite.

 

The Origins of Harissa

The sauce harissa hails from the Maghreb region of North Africa, which includes countries like Tunisia, Algeria, and Morocco. The name "harissa" comes from the Arabic word "harasa," which means "to pound" or "to break into pieces." This reflects the traditional method of making harissa, which involves pounding together hot chilli peppers, garlic, olive oil, and various spices into a paste.

How Harissa is Harvested

The key ingredient in sauce harissa is chilli peppers. These peppers are typically harvested during the late summer months when they are ripe and at their peak flavour. The peppers are then dried in the sun, which intensifies their heat and flavour. Once dried, the peppers are ground into a powder or paste, often combined with other ingredients such as garlic, cumin, coriander, and caraway seeds. The resulting mixture is then blended with olive oil to create the smooth, rich consistency that defines the sauce harissa.

Why Harissa is Used

The sauce harissa is prized for its bold, complex flavour profile. It offers a perfect balance of heat, smokiness, and earthiness, with a touch of sweetness from the peppers. This unique combination of flavours makes harissa an incredibly versatile condiment that can enhance a wide variety of dishes. It can be used as a marinade, a dipping sauce, a spread, or a flavouring agent in soups, stews, and sauces.

The History of Harissa's Use

The use of the sauce harissa dates back centuries, with its roots firmly planted in North African cuisine. It was traditionally used as a preservative, helping to keep meats and other foods from spoiling in the hot, arid climates of the region. Over time, it became a beloved staple in Tunisian and Algerian households, often served with couscous, grilled meats, and vegetables. The spread of harissa beyond North Africa can be attributed to the migration of people and the globalisation of food, leading to its adoption in various cuisines around the world.

The Best Ways to Use Harissa

The sauce harissa's versatility makes it a must-have in any kitchen. Here are some of the best ways to use this fiery condiment:

1. Marinade for Meats

One of the most popular uses for the sauce harissa is as a marinade for meats. Its bold flavours penetrate deeply into the meat, adding an irresistible spiciness and depth. For example, you can create a delicious marinade for lamb by combining harissa with olive oil, lemon juice, and fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme. Let the lamb marinate for several hours or overnight, then grill or roast it to perfection.

We love this Ottolenghi recipe for harissa marinaded steak >> 

2. Enhancing Pasta Dishes

The sauce harissa can also be used to add a spicy kick to pasta dishes. Try mixing a spoonful of harissa into your favourite tomato sauce for a fiery twist on classic pasta. Alternatively, you can make a harissa-based cream sauce by blending it with vegan cream or cashew cream and tossing it with pasta for a rich, flavourful meal.

3. Spicing Up Vegetables

Roasted or grilled vegetables can benefit immensely from a touch of sauce harissa. Toss your veggies in a harissa and olive oil mixture before roasting, or drizzle a bit over the top once they're cooked. This adds a smoky, spicy flavour that complements the natural sweetness of the vegetables.

4. Flavourful Soups and Stews

Adding a dollop of the sauce harissa to soups and stews can elevate their flavour profile, giving them a warm, spicy undertone. It's especially delicious in tomato-based soups, lentil stews, and chickpea dishes, providing a depth of flavour that is both comforting and invigorating.

We love this recipe by the Hairy Bikers for a red lentil and harissa soup >>

5. Condiment and Dip

The sauce harissa also makes an excellent condiment for sandwiches, wraps, and burgers. Spread a thin layer on bread or pita before adding your fillings for an extra burst of flavour. Additionally, you can mix harissa with yogurt or vegan yogurt to create a spicy dip for vegetables, chips, or flatbreads.

Here's a harissa and bean dip we just love >> 

Why Harissa is Great in a Sauce

The magic of the sauce harissa lies in its ability to transform simple ingredients into something extraordinary. Its complex flavour profile, which balances heat with smokiness and earthy spices, makes it an excellent base for sauces. When used in a sauce, harissa adds layers of flavour that enhance the overall dish, making it more exciting and satisfying.

What You Could Use Harissa Sauce For

1. Harissa Marinade for Lamb

A harissa marinade for lamb can elevate your dish to new heights. Combine sauce harissa with olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and fresh herbs. Coat the lamb generously and let it marinate for several hours. When cooked, the lamb will have a beautifully charred, spicy crust with tender, flavourful meat inside.

2. Harissa Pasta Sauce

Transform your pasta dishes by incorporating the sauce harissa. Whether it's a simple tomato sauce with a harissa twist or a creamy harissa sauce for pasta, this condiment adds a delightful kick that pairs perfectly with the comforting flavours of pasta. We think the perfect harissa sauce is our Roasted Aubergine & Spicy Harissa sauce, you can buy it here for under £5 a jar. Each jar feeds 2 – 4 people, depending on how saucy you like things! We know that’s a great deal!

3. Harissa on Grilled Vegetables

Grilled vegetables take on a new life when brushed with harissa before cooking. The smokiness of the grill combined with the spicy, complex flavours of the harissa creates a side dish that is both healthy and incredibly tasty.

4. Harissa in Stews and Tagines

North African stews and tagines often feature harissa as a key ingredient. Its robust flavour blends beautifully with the slow-cooked meats, vegetables, and aromatic spices, creating a dish that is rich, warming, and deeply satisfying.

Here is also a Harissa Grilled Chicken recipe we love >> 

The Health Benefits of Harissa

In addition to its incredible flavour, sauce harissa offers several health benefits. The chili peppers used in harissa are rich in capsaicin, a compound known for its anti-inflammatory and metabolism-boosting properties. Capsaicin can also help reduce appetite and promote fat burning, making harissa a great addition to a weight management diet. Furthermore, the garlic and spices in harissa are packed with antioxidants, which can help protect against chronic diseases and support overall health. Quick! What are you waiting for, grab some harissa sauce now! >>

Easy Homemade Harissa Sauce Recipe

If you have the time and can be bothered with all the washing up... you could after all make your own harissa sauce at home, this would allow you to tailor the heat and flavour to your liking. Here's an easy recipe to create a delicious homemade harissa sauce:

Ingredients

• 10-12 dried red chilli peppers (like Kashmiri or Arbol)
• 2 fresh red bell peppers
• 4 cloves of garlic, peeled
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground caraway seeds
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt to taste
• 4 tablespoons olive oil, plus extra for storing

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chilli Peppers:

• Remove the stems and seeds from the dried chili peppers.
• Place them in a bowl and cover with hot water. Let them soak for about 30 minutes until they soften.

2. Roast the Bell Peppers:

• Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
• Place the fresh red bell peppers on a baking tray and roast for about 20-25 minutes until the skin is charred and blistered.
• Once roasted, transfer the peppers to a bowl and cover with cling film or a lid to let them steam for 10 minutes. This will make it easier to peel the skin.
• Peel off the skin, remove the seeds and stems, and roughly chop the roasted peppers.

3. Blend the Ingredients:

• Drain the soaked chilli peppers and add them to a food processor or blender.
• Add the roasted red bell peppers, garlic cloves, ground cumin, ground coriander, ground caraway seeds, smoked paprika, lemon juice, and salt.
• Blend the mixture until it forms a smooth paste.

4. Add Olive Oil:

• With the blender running, gradually drizzle in the olive oil. Blend until the oil is fully incorporated and the harissa sauce is smooth and creamy.

5. Adjust Seasoning:

• Taste the harissa sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add more salt, lemon juice, or spices according to your preference.

6. Store the Harissa:

• Transfer the harissa sauce to a sterilised jar.
• Pour a thin layer of olive oil on top to preserve the freshness.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Tips

• Heat Level: Adjust the number of chilli peppers to control the heat level. For a milder sauce, use fewer chilli peppers or opt for milder varieties.
• Smokiness: If you prefer a smokier flavour, increase the amount of smoked paprika or add a small amount of smoked chilli peppers.
• Herbs: For added complexity, you can incorporate fresh herbs like mint or cilantro while blending.

 Here is another tried and tested recipe for making harissa paste by Good Food >>

Conclusion

The sauce harissa is a versatile and flavourful condiment that can elevate a wide range of dishes. From its origins in North Africa to its global popularity today, harissa has a rich history and a unique ability to enhance the flavour of any meal. Whether you're using it as a marinade for lamb, a sauce for pasta, or a dip for vegetables, harissa brings a depth of flavour that is both exciting and satisfying. At Saucerer, we celebrate the rich, complex flavours of harissa in our gourmet stir-in pasta sauces, making it easy for you to enjoy this incredible condiment in your everyday cooking. So why not experiment with sauce harissa and discover the delicious possibilities it offers?