Harissa is a spicy North African chili pepper paste that is a popular ingredient in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines. It can be used as a condiment or cooking ingredient to add a bold, fiery kick of flavor. Harissa powder is made from dried chilies, spices like cumin and coriander, garlic, olive oil, and salt. It comes in varying levels of spiciness, from mild to extra hot.
Harissa powder is extremely versatile and can be used to season and spice up numerous dishes. It's commonly added to couscous, tagines, rice dishes, dips, marinades, stews, soups, eggs, pizza, sandwiches, and more. Just a small amount of harissa can provide big, complex flavor. The paste imparts spicy heat along with earthy, aromatic notes from the spices used.
When shopping for the best harissa powder, it's important to consider the level of spiciness you prefer and also the specific ingredients used. Some include additional spices like caraway or mint. Higher quality harissa powders are made with whole chilies rather than chili powder.
The Spice Way Harissa Seasoning Powder
You'll love adding this harissa seasoning from The Spice Way to your recipes. It provides a spicy and flavorful kick.
This seasoning contains a unique blend of chilies, paprika, cumin, coriander and more for an authentic North African flavor. It is made from pure ingredients with no additives or preservatives.
The harissa powder comes in a resealable pouch to maintain freshness. You can use it to add heat and bold flavor to hummus, cheese, meat, chicken or salad. It's also great for making harissa paste and sauce.
Key features:
- Contains ancho, chipotle, paprika, cumin, coriander and more
- Adds spicy, smokey flavor
- No additives or preservatives
Pros:
- Provides authentic harissa flavor
- Versatile to use in many dishes
- Made from pure ingredients
Cons:
- Spice level may be too hot for some
Roland Foods Harissa Spice Blend Jar
Experience an authentic Tunisian spice blend with Roland Foods Harissa. This vibrant and flavorful seasoning combines sweet paprika, garlic, caraway and a touch of chili powder.
The harissa comes in a convenient jar to sprinkle into your favorite Mediterranean or North African dishes. It's excellent mixed into hummus, salads, soups and stews. You can also use it as a rub on lamb, beef or chicken.
Roland Foods has been importing premium spices since 1934. Their harissa blend provides traditional Tunisian flavor without preservatives.
Key features:
- Sweet paprika, garlic, caraway, chili powder
- Adds bold and spicy flavor
- Authentic Tunisian recipe
Pros:
- Provides traditional North African taste
- Enhances flavor of many dishes
- Convenient jar for storage
Cons:
- May be too mild for those wanting more heat
Watkins Gourmet Organic Harissa Spice Jar
For an organic and boldly flavored harissa, try Watkins Gourmet. It has a spicy, smoky taste with hints of paprika, garlic and chili.
This USDA certified organic blend has non-GMO ingredients. The spices are sourced globally for optimal quality. You'll enjoy the convenience of the jar for storage and shaking on your food.
Use this harissa to kick up hummus, bean dishes, meat and more. It also works great when blended into salad dressings or sauces. Watkins has been crafting gourmet flavors since 1868 using traditional methods.
Key features:
- USDA organic certified
- Contains ancho chili, paprika, cumin and more
- Non-GMO ingredients
Pros:
- Provides authentic spicy harissa flavor
- No artificial ingredients
- Resealable jar for freshness
Cons:
- Heat level may be too high for some
Unpretentious Harissa Seasoning Powder Large Container
Unpretentious makes an extra large, versatile harissa spice blend with 9.6 ounces. It has a bold, smoky and intensely spicy flavor.
This seasoning combines chilies and spices for true North African taste. It is crafted from pure food-grade ingredients without preservatives or fillers.
You'll find many uses for this zesty blend. Shake it on hummus, roasted veggies, cheese, meat and more. The generous container will last a long time.
Key features:
- 9.6 ounce container
- Chili and spice blend
- No fillers or preservatives
Pros:
- Provides extremely spicy, bold harissa flavor
- Versatile for many uses
- Large amount for value
Cons:
- Very intense heat may be too spicy
McCormick Culinary Harissa Seasoning Large Container
For convenience in large quantities, try McCormick Culinary harissa seasoning in a 19.5 ounce container. It has a vibrant, spicy North African flavor profile.
This blend combines premium herbs and spices like chili peppers, cumin, coriander and garlic. The pre-mixed spices make it easy for chefs to add bold flavor to various dishes.
Use the harissa to create irresistible rubs, marinades and flavor boosts for roasted veggies, beans, meats and more. The generous size means you'll always have it on hand.
Key features:
- 19.5 ounce container
- Chili pepper and spice blend
- Pre-mixed for convenience
Pros:
- Provides consistent and robust harissa flavor
- Generous size great for kitchens
- Saves time pre-mixed
Cons:
- Caraway taste overpowering for some
USimplySeason Harissa Spice Blend
Looking for an easy way to add bold, mouth-watering flavor to your dishes? USimplySeason's Harissa spice blend is an excellent option. This North African seasoning features a fiery mix of chili peppers, paprika, cumin, garlic, and other spices that will transform the flavor of anything it touches.
Just a sprinkle of this fragrant, all-natural blend over meat, fish, veggies, eggs, pasta, or rice dishes will instantly elevate them. The complexity of flavors like smoky, sweet, tangy, and spicy will seriously impress your tastebuds. Because it's salt-free and contains no preservatives, this versatile seasoning is great for paleo, keto, and Mediterranean diets too.
What's really nice is you can just use the spice blend as-is straight from the jar. No extra steps needed to bring out its incredible flavor. But if you want to experiment, try mixing it into a paste with olive oil and lemon juice to use as a condiment or marinade. The possibilities are endless with this handy seasoning on hand.
Key features:
- North African inspired blend with chili, paprika, garlic
- Versatile all-purpose seasoning, no salt or preservatives
- Just sprinkle on dishes for instant flavor boost
Pros:
- Adds complex sweet, spicy, smoky flavor
- Handy jar for easy use
- Good for various diet needs
Cons:
- Can be hot for some palates
Spiceology Harissa Seasoning Powder
Looking to ignite flavor in your cooking? Reach for Spiceology's harissa seasoning blend. This North African-inspired mix packs some serious heat thanks to a blend of ground chili peppers. But it also has wonderful notes of sweet paprika, garlic, cumin, and coriander to balance the spice.
The result is a mouth-watering medley that can transform everything from grilled meats to pasta dishes and sautéed veggies. Because it's salt-free, this versatile blend is diet-friendly too. Just a sprinkle will do to give a subtle heat and incredible depth to your food without overpowering it.
You can even use it to make your own zesty harissa paste or sauce to use as a condiment. And unlike some spice blends, you can trust the quality of this one. It contains no fillers, MSG or irradiation. The pure mix is made in the USA for freshness you can taste in every bite.
Key features:
- Blend with chili peppers, paprika, garlic and cumin
- Adds subtle heat and depth of flavor
- Salt-free and diet-friendly
Pros:
- High quality pure blend
- Versatile for many uses
- Made in the USA
Cons:
- Can be spicy for some
Morton & Bassett Harissa Powder
For an exciting new way to bring out the best in your cooking, try Morton & Bassett's harissa seasoning. This North African-inspired blend packs some zing with its mix of chili peppers, cumin, garlic and more. Yet it also has smoky and sweet notes from paprika to perfectly balance the heat.
Sprinkle this vibrant seasoning on everything from meat and fish to veggies and eggs. It's sure to be a flavor revelation in any dish. You can also mix it into sauces, salad dressings and marinades for a flavor boost. A little of this potent blend goes a long way, so use it sparingly until you know your desired level of heat.
Because it contains no additives or preservatives, this seasoning is a great way to experiment with new flavors if you follow a gluten-free, kosher or vegan diet too. Open your tastebuds to an exciting culinary adventure with harissa's unique medley of flavors.
Key features:
- Chili, paprika, cumin, garlic based blend
- North African inspired seasoning
- Gluten-free and vegan friendly
Pros:
- Adds spicy, tangy, smoky depth
- Versatile in many dishes
- No additives or preservatives
Cons:
- Can be quite spicy
Birch & Meadow Harissa Seasoning
Bring the flavors of North Africa into your kitchen with Birch & Meadow's Harissa seasoning. This sunny blend of spices like chili peppers, paprika, cumin, garlic, and mint will electrify your tastebuds. It has the perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and spicy in one jar.
Transform the flavor of grilled meats, stews, dressings, marinades, and more with just a sprinkle. A little of this blend's smoky heat goes a long way, adding incredible depth and dimension to dishes without overpowering them.
Because it's an all-natural seasoning containing no additives, this harissa mix is diet-friendly for paleo, keto, gluten-free, and vegan lifestyles. Open your palate to a vibrant new world of flavors with this Moroccan-inspired blend. Your tastebuds will thank you with each mouth-watering bite.
Key features:
- North African blend with chili and smoky spices
- Adds spicy heat and tangy flavor
- Diet-friendly with no additives
Pros:
- Complex sweet, spicy and smoky notes
- A little goes a long way
- Natural and diet-friendly
Cons:
- Can be quite hot
Jamie Geller Mild Harissa Seasoning
Want to add tame yet tasty heat to your dishes? Jamie Geller's mild harissa seasoning has you covered. This North African blend features a medley of sweet paprika, chili peppers, garlic, cumin and coriander for a flavor explosion. It's spicy but won't overwhelm your palate.
Just a dash of this versatile, all-natural mix transforms everything it touches. Use it as a rub on meats, stir into sauces and soups, or blend with olive oil as a marinade. OU Kosher certified and vegan-friendly, it's a great way to add excitement to your diet restrictions too.
You can really taste the fresh, quality ingredients in every sprinkle. And a little goes a long way, so one jar can last a while. Open your tastebuds to a flavorful culinary adventure with this Moroccan-inspired seasoning.
Key features:
- Mild harissa blend with chili & spices
- Adds moderate spice and big flavor
- Vegan and kosher certified
Pros:
- Balances spicy and sweet notes
- Very versatile seasoning
- Quality you can taste
Cons:
- Not as hot as some like
Harissa Powder Buying Guide
When looking for a high quality harissa powder, here are some key factors to consider:
Spiciness Level
Harissa powders range from mild to spicy hot. Consider your tolerance for heat and how you plan to use it. Hotter varieties work well for fiery marinades and stews, while milder ones are better for dips, dressings, etc.
Ingredients
Check the ingredients list. The best harissa powders contain chili peppers, cumin, coriander, garlic, olive oil, and salt. Some also add spices like caraway, mint or rose. Avoid brands with lots of thickeners, preservatives and artificial flavors.
Whole vs Ground Chilies
Powders made with whole dried chilies tend to have better flavor than ones using regular chili powder. Whole chilies give a richer, more nuanced taste.
Brand Reputation & Reviews
Look at reviews and talk to friends to find harissa powders with authentic North African flavor. Established brands from the region like Délice or House of Tsang are good bets. Read reviews to gauge heat levels and flavor balance.
Cooking Considerations
Think about how you'll use the harissa powder. Hotter varieties work for stews. Milder ones allow harissa's flavor to shine in dressings without excessive heat. Consider the cuisine you'll use it for too.
Price
Harissa powder prices range from about $3 to $15. In most cases, spending a little more nets higher quality ingredients and flavor. But some budget brands still impress. Focus on quality over price alone.
Packaging
Harissa powder should come in an opaque, tightly sealed container to keep out light and air. This helps preserve freshness and flavor. Glass jars are ideal.
With a spicy, complex flavor profile, harissa powder is a versatile ingredient that can transform Mediterranean, Middle Eastern and North African dishes. Keep these tips in mind to choose the best one to suit your cooking needs and spice preferences.
FAQs
How hot is harissa powder?
Harissa powder can range from mildly spicy to very hot depending on the specific chilies used. Most commercial brands list the spiciness level on the packaging, typically categorizing it as mild, medium, hot or extra hot. Start with a milder variety if you're new to harissa.
What's the difference between harissa paste and powder?
Harissa paste has a thicker, coarse texture and typically contains olive oil. The powder is ground from dried chilies and spices, giving it a fine, dry consistency. In terms of flavor, powder offers a more concentrated harissa taste.
What can I use harissa powder for?
Harissa powder is extremely versatile. You can add it to meat or veggie stews, tagines, rice or grain dishes, salad dressings, marinades, dips, soups, pizza, sandwiches and much more. It's great for spicy cooking.
What cuisine does harissa powder originate from?
Authentic harissa originates from North African countries like Tunisia, Algeria and Morocco. It's a staple ingredient in Maghrebi and Middle Eastern cooking.
What spices are in harissa powder?
A typical harissa powder contains ground chilies, cumin, coriander, garlic, salt and olive oil. Some also include caraway, mint, rose or other spices.
Should harissa powder be refrigerated?
You can store harissa powder in a cool, dry pantry for up to 6 months. Refrigeration can help extend its shelf life further to up to a year. Keep it in an airtight container away from light.
Can I make my own harissa powder?
Absolutely. You can make homemade harissa powder by dehydrating chilies and spices, then grinding them into a powder. This allows you to customize the flavor and heat level.
How long does harissa powder last?
Properly stored in a cool, dark place, harissa powder will keep for about 6 months. If refrigerated in an airtight container, it can last up to 1 year before losing flavor and aroma.
Conclusion
With its captivating blend of heat and North African spice flavors, harissa powder can bring excitement to your cooking. It's extremely versatile - perfect for spicing up stews, tagines, rice, meats, dressings and more.
When purchasing harissa powder, opt for brands featuring ingredients like whole chilies, cumin, coriander and garlic. Consider the level of spiciness you prefer and find an authentic powder that suits your tastes.