Harissa is a fiery North African chili paste crafted from roasted red peppers, garlic, olive oil, and an array of spices. Originating from Tunisia, it boasts a rich history dating back centuries, serving as a staple condiment in Maghrebi cuisine. Traditionally used to add depth and heat to dishes like couscous and tagines, its popularity has spread globally, offering a versatile and flavorful addition to various cuisines.

Ingredients :

- 4-6 dried red chili peppers (such as guajillo or New Mexico), seeds removed

- 2 roasted red bell peppers, peeled and deseeded

- 4 cloves garlic

- 2 tablespoons olive oil

- 1 teaspoon ground cumin

- 1 teaspoon ground coriander

- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

- 1/2 teaspoon caraway seeds

- Salt, to taste

- 1-2 tablespoons lemon juice, to taste

Method:

Soak the dried chili peppers in hot water for about 30 minutes to soften them.

Drain the soaked chili peppers and place them in a food processor or blender.

Add the roasted red bell peppers, garlic cloves, olive oil, ground cumin, ground coriander, smoked paprika, caraway seeds, and a pinch of salt.

Blend the ingredients until smooth, scraping down the sides of the processor or blender as needed.

Taste the harissa and adjust the seasoning as desired, adding more salt or lemon juice if needed.

Transfer the harissa to a clean jar or airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Nutrition Value:

Dried Red Chili Peppers (4-6 peppers, seeds removed):

  - Calories: 20-30 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 4-6 g

  - Protein: 1-2 g

  - Fat: 0-1 g

  - Sodium: 0 mg

  - Cholesterol: 0 mg

  - Vitamins: Rich in vitamin C and vitamin A

  - Minerals: Contains potassium, magnesium, and iron

Benefit: High in antioxidants, may aid in digestion and boost metabolism.

Roasted Red Bell Peppers (2 peppers, peeled and deseeded):

  - Calories: 50-70 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 10-14 g

  - Protein: 2-3 g

  - Fat: 0-1 g

  - Sodium: 10-20 mg

  - Cholesterol: 0 mg

  - Vitamins: Excellent source of vitamin C and vitamin A

  - Minerals: Contains potassium, magnesium, and folate

Benefit: High in antioxidants, supports immune health and may improve eye health.

Garlic (4 cloves):

  - Calories: 16 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 4 g

  - Protein: 1 g

  - Fat: 0 g

  - Sodium: 2 mg

  - Cholesterol: 0 mg

  - Vitamins: Contains vitamin C, vitamin B6, and manganese

  - Minerals: Rich in sulfur compounds like allicin

Benefit: May boost immune function, improve heart health, and have antimicrobial properties.

Olive Oil (2 tablespoons):

  - Calories: 240 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 0 g

  - Protein: 0 g

  - Fat: 28 g

  - Sodium: 0 mg

  - Cholesterol: 0 mg

  - Vitamins: Contains vitamin E and vitamin K

  - Minerals: Rich in monounsaturated fats, contains small amounts of iron and calcium

Benefit: Source of healthy fats, may reduce the risk of heart disease and inflammation.

Ground Cumin (1 teaspoon):

  - Calories: 8 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 1 g

  - Protein: 0 g

  - Fat: 1 g

  - Sodium: 1 mg

  - Cholesterol: 0 mg

  - Vitamins: Contains small amounts of vitamin C and vitamin K

  - Minerals: Good source of iron and manganese

Benefit: May aid digestion, improve blood sugar control, and have antioxidant properties.

Ground Coriander (1 teaspoon):

  - Calories: 5 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 1 g

  - Protein: 0 g

  - Fat: 0 g

  - Sodium: 1 mg

  - Cholesterol: 0 mg

  - Vitamins: Contains small amounts of vitamin C

  - Minerals: Good source of potassium and magnesium

Benefit: May promote digestion, reduce inflammation, and have antimicrobial properties.

Smoked Paprika (1/2 teaspoon):

  - Calories: 5 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 1 g

  - Protein: 0 g

  - Fat: 0 g

  - Sodium: 1 mg

  - Cholesterol: 0 mg

  - Vitamins: Contains small amounts of vitamin A and vitamin E

  - Minerals: Contains potassium and iron

Benefit: Source of antioxidants, may improve digestion and enhance flavor.

Caraway Seeds (1/2 teaspoon):

  - Calories: 4 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 1 g

  - Protein: 0 g

  - Fat: 0 g

  - Sodium: 0 mg

  - Cholesterol: 0 mg

  - Vitamins: Contains small amounts of vitamin C

  - Minerals: Rich in iron and magnesium

Benefit: May aid digestion, reduce gas and bloating, and have antioxidant properties.

Salt, to taste:

  - Nutritional values vary based on quantity used.

  - Sodium: 0-2000 mg per teaspoon

Benefit: Essential for electrolyte balance, but excessive consumption may increase blood pressure.

Lemon Juice (1-2 tablespoons):

  - Calories: 4-8 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 1-2 g

  - Protein: 0 g

  - Fat: 0 g

  - Sodium: 1-2 mg

  - Cholesterol: 0 mg

  - Vitamins: Excellent source of vitamin C

  - Minerals: Contains small amounts of potassium and magnesium

Benefit: High in antioxidants, may aid digestion and promote hydration.

These ingredients collectively offer a flavorful and nutritious blend, providing various vitamins, minerals, and health benefits.