Garlicky Harissa

A bold and flavorful North African hot chile paste made with dried guajillo chiles, chiles de árbol, cumin, and garlic. This versatile condiment brings deep, complex heat to any dish.

2 servings
1 hr 10 min

Ingredients

  • 8 whole dried guajillo chiles
  • 2 whole chiles de árbol
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 1 cup olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons sherry vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher salt
  • 1 piece spice mill

Cooking Instructions

  1. 1.

    Place guajillo chiles and chiles de árbol in a large heatproof bowl and pour in boiling water to cover. Let soak until softened, 40-45 minutes; drain.

    45 min

  2. 2.

    Meanwhile, toast cumin seeds in a dry small skillet over medium heat, swirling pan often, until fragrant, about 2 minutes. Let cool, then finely grind in spice mill or with mortar and pestle.

    5 min

  3. 3.

    Drain chiles; transfer to a blender and purée, adding hot water by the tablespoonful as needed until smooth. Strain chile mixture through a fine-mesh sieve; discard solids. Mix in ground cumin, garlic, oil, and vinegar. Season with salt and let sit 15 minutes before serving.

    20 min

  4. 4.

    Harissa can be made 1 week ahead. Cover and chill.