Harissa
Harissa Spice Powder vs Harissa Paste
Harissa is typically known as a spicy paste made from chiles, garlic, and various spices, but our Harissa blend comes in a convenient powder form. This powdered version offers several benefits over the traditional paste:
Customization
With Harissa powder, you have full control over the consistency and intensity of the spice. You can easily create a paste by mixing the powder with oil and water, adjusting the ratio to achieve your desired heat level and texture. This flexibility allows you to cater the blend to your specific culinary needs, whether you're making a marinade, sauce, or spice rub.
Longer Shelf Life
Harissa powder has a longer shelf life compared to the paste. The absence of oil in the powder reduces the risk of rancidity, ensuring that your spice blend remains fresh and potent for a more extended period. This makes it a more practical option for home cooks who may not use Harissa frequently.
Healthier Option
Harissa powder is a healthier option as it doesn't contain the added oils and preservatives often found in pre-made pastes. By mixing your own paste, you can use high-quality oils like extra virgin olive oil and avoid unnecessary additives. This results in a purer, more natural flavor and a healthier dish overall.
Traditional Roots and Modern Adaptations
Harissa's roots trace back to Tunisia, where it has been a staple in North African cuisine for centuries. The name "Harissa" comes from the Arabic verb "harasa," meaning to pound or break into pieces, reflecting the traditional method of making the paste using a mortar and pestle. Over time, Harissa has become popular across Tunisia, Morocco, Algeria, and Libya, each region adding its unique twist to the blend.
Culinary Uses
Harissa powder can be used in a variety of ways:
- Dry Rub: Sprinkle the powder directly onto meats, fish, or vegetables before grilling or roasting to add a smoky, spicy flavor.
- Paste: Mix the powder with oil and water to create a paste that can be used in soups, marinades, and dressings.
- Seasoning: Add a dash of Harissa powder to your shakshuka, stews, or dips for an extra kick of flavor.
FAQS about Harissa
Q: What is the origin of Harissa?
A: Harissa is a classic Tunisian spice blend from the Arabic verb "harasa," meaning to pound or break into pieces. Some of the simplest Harissa blends are made up of salt, chiles, and olive oil. These chiles were likely introduced to Africa during the occupation of Spanish colonies. Today, you'll find versions of Harissa in cuisines across Tunisia, Morocco, Algeria, and Libya.
Q: How do I use Harissa spice in cooking?
A: Harissa spice can be used in various ways. It pairs well with shakshuka, roasted meats, veggies, hummus, and dips. For a little extra spice, sprinkle Rumi Spice Harissa blend directly from the jar onto protein for a dry rub, or toss together with vegetables before roasting. To create a paste, combine two teaspoons of Harissa powder with ½ teaspoon of olive oil and ½ teaspoon of water.
Q: What does Harissa spice taste like?
A: Our Harissa spice has an earthy, peppery flavor with a lingering smokiness. This unique blend creates a harmonious and aromatic profile that enhances any dish.
Q: Are there any health benefits to using Harissa spice?
A: Yes, the ingredients in Harissa spice offer numerous health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties, digestive health support, antioxidant richness, immune-boosting effects, heart health support, metabolism boosting, and pain relief.
Q: What makes Rumi's Harissa spice different?
A: Rumi's Harissa spice is unique due to the inclusion of premium Afghan spices that are handpicked and processed. Our direct sourcing ensures high-quality, ethically produced spices that support Afghan farmers and their communities. Our harissa is a powder, rather than a paste, which offers a wide variety of benefits. Our harissa spice blend does not include salt, oil, or fillers like many other harissa spice blends or pastes.
Q: What is the mission of Rumi Spice?
A: Rumi Spice is dedicated to cultivating peace through sustainable and ethical sourcing of spices from Afghanistan. We empower Afghan women by providing them with employment opportunities and support, helping them become agents of change in their communities.
Q: How does Rumi Spice ensure the quality of its products?
A: We work directly with Afghan women foragers, employing traditional methods of harvesting and processing. Our products are hand-picked and carefully processed to ensure the highest quality and purity.
Q: How does my purchase support Afghan communities?
A: Every purchase of Rumi Spice products directly supports Afghan women and their families. By providing fair wages and sustainable employment, we help drive economic growth and empower women in Afghanistan.
Q: Where can I buy Rumi Spice products?
A: Rumi Spice products are available on our website, Amazon, and in retail stores.
Q: What other spices does Rumi Spice offer?
A: In addition to harissa we offer a range of premium whole spices directly sourced from Afghanistan, including saffron, cumin, coriander, fennel, and unique spice blends like za'atar and Kabul Piquant.
See all our spices here →
Q: How can I stay updated on Rumi Spice’s initiatives and products?
A: You can stay updated by subscribing to our newsletter, following us on social media, and regularly checking our website for new products, recipes, and stories from Afghanistan.