As the nights draw in and temperatures drop, there's one ingredient that can bring both warmth and vibrant flavour to your kitchen: harissa. The acclaimed chef and author Samin Nosrat has revealed three spectacular recipes that showcase this North African spice paste's incredible versatility.
More Than Just Heat: Understanding Harissa
Harissa isn't merely about spice; it's a complex blend of roasted red peppers, garlic, olive oil, and aromatic spices like caraway and coriander. Nosrat explains that its magic lies in creating depth and complexity rather than just heat. "It brings warmth, sweetness, and a little bit of smoke all at once," she notes.
Three Show-Stopping Harissa Creations
1. Braised Chicken with Apricots and Harissa
This dish combines tender chicken thighs with sweet dried apricots in a rich, harissa-infused sauce. The fruit's natural sweetness beautifully balances the paste's gentle heat, creating a sophisticated main course perfect for Sunday dinners.
2. Stewy Chickpeas with Squash and Harissa
A vegetarian masterpiece that transforms humble ingredients into something extraordinary. Creamy chickpeas and sweet squash meld together in a harissa-spiked broth, creating a comforting one-pot wonder that's both nutritious and deeply satisfying.
3. Harissa-Roasted Vegetables
Nosrat's simplest recipe might just become your weekly staple. Root vegetables tossed with harissa and olive oil roast to caramelised perfection, developing deep, complex flavours that elevate any meal.
Why Harissa Belongs in Your Kitchen
Beyond these recipes, Nosrat encourages home cooks to experiment. "Think of harissa as your secret weapon," she suggests. "A spoonful can transform soups, marinades, dressings, or even be swirled into yoghurt for an instant flavour boost."
With these recipes from one of today's most respected culinary voices, you're not just making dinner—you're embarking on a flavour journey that will keep you warm through the coldest months.
