18 Spicy Harissa Recipes for Bold Flavors
Get ready to ignite your taste buds with these 18 bold and spicy harissa recipes! This North African chili pepper paste is a game-changer when it comes to adding depth and heat to any dish. From classic combinations like roasted chicken and lamb chops, to innovative twists like honey-glazed carrots and hummus, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll dive into the world of harissa and explore its many uses in the kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a curious cook just starting out, these recipes are sure to inspire your next meal.
Harissa Roasted Chicken with Lemon and Garlic
This North African-inspired recipe combines the bold flavors of harissa with the brightness of lemon and pungency of garlic, all wrapped up in a juicy roasted chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 tbsp harissa
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together harissa, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
4. Rub the harissa mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and sprinkle with chopped parsley (if using).
6. Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spicy Harissa Shrimp Skewers with Yogurt Dip
Elevate your outdoor gatherings with these flavorful and spicy shrimp skewers, served with a refreshing yogurt dip.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup harissa paste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
– Yogurt Dip (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together harissa paste, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add shrimp to the marinade, tossing to coat. Let marinate for 15-20 minutes.
4. Thread marinated shrimp onto skewers, leaving a small space between each shrimp.
5. Grill skewers for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
6. Serve with Yogurt Dip (see below).
Yogurt Dip:
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt to taste
Mix all ingredients together in a bowl. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes total
Harissa-Marinated Lamb Chops with Mint
Marinate tender lamb chops in a spicy harissa mixture, then grill to perfection and serve with a cooling dollop of mint. This flavorful combination is perfect for a summer evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb chops (1 inch thick)
– 2 tbsp harissa
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together harissa, olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice.
2. Place lamb chops in a shallow dish and brush the marinade on both sides of each chop.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove lamb from marinade and season with salt and pepper.
5. Grill lamb chops for 4-6 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
6. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Serve with a dollop of chopped fresh mint on top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Harissa and Honey Glazed Carrots
Elevate your vegetable side dish game with this unique recipe that combines the warmth of harissa and the sweetness of honey, resulting in a flavorful and aromatic glaze for carrots.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons harissa paste
– 2 tablespoons honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, harissa paste, and honey until smooth.
3. Add the sliced carrots to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the glaze.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Spread the carrot mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the carrots are tender and caramelized.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Harissa-Spiced Chickpea Stew
This North African-inspired stew is a flavorful and nutritious option for a quick dinner or lunch. The combination of chickpeas, tomatoes, and spicy harissa creates a rich and aromatic flavor profile that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz)
– 2 cups chopped tomatoes
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/4 cup harissa paste
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and harissa paste. Cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add chickpeas, chopped tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together and stew has thickened slightly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Serve warm with fresh parsley or cilantro garnish, if desired. Enjoy!
Harissa Grilled Eggplant with Tahini Drizzle
Elevate your grilled eggplant game with this flavorful and aromatic recipe that combines the spicy kick of harissa with the richness of tahini.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp harissa
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, and harissa.
3. Brush the eggplant slices with the harissa mixture and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill the eggplant for 3-4 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred.
5. Meanwhile, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, and garlic powder to create the drizzle.
6. Once the eggplant is cooked, place it on a serving plate and drizzle with the tahini mixture.
7. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Harissa Beef Kofta with Cucumber Salad
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and refreshing recipe that combines the warmth of harissa beef kofta with the coolness of a cucumber salad. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
For the kofta:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 teaspoons harissa paste
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon breadcrumbs
For the salad:
– 4-6 cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, olive oil, onion, garlic, harissa paste, salt, and black pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Divide the mixture into 4-6 portions, depending on desired kofta size. Shape each portion into a ball and then flatten slightly into patties.
4. Place the koftas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-18 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the koftas are cooking, prepare the salad by combining cucumber slices, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Stir to combine.
6. Serve the hot koftas with the refreshing cucumber salad on the side.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Harissa-Spiked Tomato Soup
This recipe adds a bold and aromatic twist to traditional tomato soup by incorporating the spicy and smoky flavors of harissa. The result is a rich, velvety soup that’s perfect for a chilly evening or as a starter for a Moroccan-inspired meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of diced tomatoes)
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup harissa paste
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until softened (5 minutes).
3. Add the tomatoes, vegetable broth, harissa paste, and cumin. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Harissa and Feta Stuffed Peppers
This recipe combines the sweetness of bell peppers with the bold flavors of harissa and crumbly feta cheese, creating a perfect harmony of spices. Perfect as an appetizer or main course.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1/2 cup cooked rice
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tablespoons harissa
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix cooked rice, feta cheese, harissa, and olive oil.
4. Stuff each pepper with the rice mixture, filling to the top.
5. Place peppers in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Harissa Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Lime
Add a spicy kick to your roasted sweet potatoes with this flavorful and easy-to-make recipe. The combination of harissa, lime juice, and herbs will elevate the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons harissa
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Scrub the sweet potatoes clean and dry them with a paper towel.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, harissa, and lime juice.
4. Place the sweet potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and brush the harissa mixture evenly over both sweet potatoes.
5. Sprinkle cilantro, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Harissa-Spiced Lentil Soup
Warm up with this aromatic and flavorful Harissa-Spiced Lentil Soup!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1-2 teaspoons harissa paste (depending on desired heat level)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onions and garlic in a little water until softened.
2. Add the lentils, cumin, smoked paprika, and harissa paste. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
3. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Harissa Grilled Salmon with Herbed Couscous
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful Harissa Grilled Salmon paired with a refreshing Herbed Couscous. The bold flavors of North African spices and herbs will transport you to the Mediterranean coast.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup harissa
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 lemons, sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup couscous
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together harissa and olive oil.
3. Brush the mixture onto both sides of the salmon fillets. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill salmon for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Cook couscous according to package instructions. Stir in chopped parsley, cilantro, and cumin.
6. Serve grilled salmon atop herbed couscous, garnished with scallions and lemon slices.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Harissa Deviled Eggs with Smoked Paprika
Elevate your deviled egg game with the bold flavors of North African cuisine. This recipe adds a spicy kick from harissa, balanced by the subtle smokiness of smoked paprika.
Ingredients:
– 6 large eggs, hard-boiled and peeled
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons harissa
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon prepared horseradish
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the eggs in half lengthwise.
2. Scoop out the yolks and place them in a bowl.
3. Mash the yolks with a fork until smooth.
4. Add mayonnaise, harissa, Dijon mustard, and horseradish to the yolks. Mix until combined.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
6. Spoon the yolk mixture evenly into the egg white halves.
7. Garnish with parsley or cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (plus time for boiling eggs)
Harissa and Avocado Toast with Poached Eggs
Elevate your breakfast game with this vibrant Harissa and Avocado Toast featuring creamy poached eggs. The spicy kick from the harissa is balanced by the richness of the avocado, making for a satisfying morning meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices whole grain bread
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 2 tbsp harissa
– 2 large eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Toast the bread until lightly browned.
2. Spread the mashed avocado on top of the toast.
3. Drizzle the harissa over the avocado, using as much or as little as desired.
4. Poach the eggs by cracking them into a pot of simmering water and cooking for 3-4 minutes or until the whites are set.
5. Place the poached eggs on top of the toast.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Harissa-Spiced Meatballs in Tomato Sauce
Elevate your pasta game with these Harissa-spiced meatballs, swimming in a rich and tangy tomato sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 tbsp breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 2 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp Harissa chili paste
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups tomato sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, oregano, Harissa, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the meatballs are baking, heat tomato sauce over medium-low heat.
6. Add the baked meatballs to the sauce and simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Harissa Roasted Cauliflower with Pomegranate Seeds
Elevate your roasted cauliflower game with this flavorful and aromatic Harissa Roasted Cauliflower with Pomegranate Seeds recipe. This sweet and spicy dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side dish for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp Harissa paste
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, Harissa paste, salt, and black pepper until well coated.
3. Spread the cauliflower mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
5. Remove from oven and toss with pomegranate seeds and lemon juice.
6. Serve warm, garnished with additional pomegranate seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Harissa Hummus with Warm Pita Bread
Transform traditional hummus with the bold flavors of harissa and serve it warm with crispy pita bread. This spicy twist on a classic dip is perfect for any gathering or as a quick snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/4 cup harissa
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– Warm pita bread, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine chickpeas, harissa, tahini, garlic, and lemon juice. Blend until smooth.
2. With the blender or food processor running, slowly add the olive oil and salt. Continue blending until well combined.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Warm pita bread by wrapping it in foil and heating it in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes.
5. Serve warm hummus with crispy pita bread and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Harissa-Spiced Pulled Pork Sliders
Take your slider game to the next level with this flavorful and aromatic recipe that combines tender pulled pork with the bold heat of harissa. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup harissa paste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw or pickled red onions (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together harissa paste, olive oil, onion, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the pork shoulder, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the pork in a large Dutch oven or slow cooker and cover with a lid.
5. Cook for 6-8 hours or until the pork is tender and falls apart easily.
6. Shred the pork with two forks and assemble sliders with your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Summary
Get ready to add bold flavors to your meals with these 18 spicy harissa recipes! From roasted chicken and lamb chops to grilled eggplant and beef kofta, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for a savory stew or a sweet and spicy glaze, these recipes will inspire you to try new flavor combinations. With ingredients ranging from shrimp to lentils, and condiments like yogurt and tahini, this collection is sure to ignite your taste buds.
