When most people hear Harissa, they usually think of the prepared Harissa sauce or paste found at a popular grocery store whose initials start with a T and a J. While we’re all about convenience, we here to tell you there is a better and just as easy way to experience this North African Condiment!
There’s a whole world of flavor waiting to be discovered beyond the jar!
Harissa Spice Blend!
Harissa spice or powder, a vibrant North African spice blend often called dry harissa, is traditionally used in everything from lentil soups and hummus to grilled vegetables and meats. While this spice blend is spicy, it is so much more. A blend of chili peppers, coriander, cumin, cinnamon, garlic, and lemon peel, harissa adds a complex spiciness and layers of flavor to any dish you add it to. (Keep in mind harissa spice doesn’t have any salt, so you’ll need to add salt as you are cooking with it)
Today, we’re putting the spotlight on harissa’s incredible versatility in our Double Harissa Roasted Potato Recipe.
We double up on the Harissa flavor in these crispy beauties by seasoning the potatoes with Harissa spice blend as well as making our own Harissa spice paste (also called wet harissa) – creating an unforgettable flavor explosion in every bite.
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large bowl, toss the potato halves with olive oil, Pacific Flake Sea Salt, and a generous amount of Harissa spice blend. Aim for even coating to ensure every bite bursts with flavor.
Spread the potatoes on a baking sheet in a single layer. Let them roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they’re golden brown and crispy as well as fork-tender.
How to Make Harissa Paste at Home?
While the potatoes are working their magic in the oven, whip up a simple Harissa sauce to complement the roasted goodness. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Olive oil
- Harissa spice blend
- Tomato paste (or ketchup)
- Lemon juice
- Pinch of salt
Combine all the ingredients in a small bowl, whisking until you have a smooth, flavorful paste. The consistency can be adjusted to your preference – thicker for dipping, or thinner for drizzling.
Bring It All Together
Once the potatoes are perfectly roasted, remove them from the oven and toss them with half of the harissa paste. Let them roast for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Serve the roasted potatoes hot, with the remaining harissa paste on the side for dipping. Every bite will be a delightful explosion of crispy potato perfection, infused with a smoky warmth and a spicy depth.
Are These Harissa Potatoes Vegetarian?
Yup! These delicious potatoes are vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free!
What To Serve With Your Harissa Potatoes?
Harissa Potatoes make an amazing side dish for simple grilled sausages.
Or pair them with Cheesy Baked Smoked Paprika Chicken for an easy weeknight meal.
Or keep it vegetarian and vegan by pairing this North African flavored side dish with Moroccan Loubia (white bean stew)
Let’s Get Cooking!
Double Harissa Roasted Potatoes
Ingredients
Roasted Potatoes
Harissa Paste
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 425F.
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In a medium bowl, toss the potatoes with olive oil, 1 teaspoon Pacific Flake Sea Salt, and 1 tablespoon harissa spice blend.
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Spread potatoes in a single layer onto a large baking sheet and roast in the preheated oven 25-28 minutes, tossing halfway through, until fork tender.
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While the potatoes are cooking, combine all the Harissa Paste ingredients.
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After potatoes are cooked through and crispy, toss with half of the Harissa Paste.
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Roast for another 5 minutes.
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Serve with the additional Harissa Paste for dipping.
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Enjoy!