Harissa Tomato Sauce | Spicy & Savory

I stumbled upon the perfect harissa tomato sauce during a craving for something bold and flavorful. Combining the heat of harissa, the sweetness of sugar, and the richness of crushed tomatoes, it quickly became my go-to sauce.

It adds a vibrant, spicy kick to any dish, transforming simple meals into something extraordinary. This Harissa Tomato Sauce is a rich and flavorful sauce that adds a spicy kick to any dish.

Combining crushed and chopped tomatoes with the vibrant heat of harissa, this sauce is perfect for pasta, grilled meats, vegetables, or even as a topping for pizza.

The sweet notes from the demerara sugar balance the heat from the harissa, while the caraway seeds and ground coriander bring aromatic depth to the sauce.

Simple to prepare yet packed with flavor, this recipe is a go-to for anyone who loves bold Mediterranean flavors.

What Does Harissa Taste Like?

Harissa has a bold, complex flavor with a perfect balance of heat and depth. It’s spicy, thanks to the chili peppers, but also aromatic with hints of smoky, earthy undertones from ingredients like cumin, coriander, and garlic.

The blend of spices adds warmth, while a touch of sweetness and tang from the addition of ingredients like olive oil and vinegar rounds out the sauce, making it both fiery and flavorful.

How To Prepare Harissa Tomato Sauce?

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Course: Sauce
• Difficulty: Easy
• Cuisine: Mediterranean
• Calories: Approx. 100 calories per serving
• Yield: About 3 cups

Kitchen Utensils

• Saucepan
• Wooden Spoon
• Measuring Spoons
• Knife

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon garlic paste
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons harissa
• 1 tablespoon demerara sugar
• 2 x 400g tins of chopped tomatoes
• 1 bay leaf
• ½ teaspoon caraway seeds
• ½ teaspoon ground coriander

How To Make Harissa Tomato Sauce

1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add garlic paste and sauté for 1 minute, stirring until fragrant.

2. Add the crushed tomatoes, chopped tomatoes, harissa, demerara sugar, bay leaf, caraway seeds, and ground coriander to the pan. Stir to combine.

3. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then lower the heat and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Remove the bay leaf and taste for seasoning. Adjust if needed with salt, pepper, or more harissa if you like extra spice.

5. Once the sauce has thickened and the flavors have melded together, remove from heat and let it cool slightly before serving or storing in an airtight container.

My Tips For Making Harissa Tomato Sauce

➢ If you prefer a milder sauce, use less harissa and add a pinch of smoked paprika for a smoky depth. For more heat, increase the harissa or add some fresh chili.

➢ Before adding the garlic paste, infuse the olive oil with a few whole spices like cumin seeds or cinnamon sticks for added complexity.

➢ A sprinkle of fresh cilantro or parsley at the end brightens the flavor, giving your sauce a fresh, herbaceous finish.

➢ Experiment with different sweeteners like honey or maple syrup instead of demerara sugar for a unique twist on the sauce’s sweetness.

➢ If you have extra time, roasting the tomatoes before using them in the sauce will bring out their natural sweetness and deepen the overall flavor profile of the sauce.

Our Favorite Ways To Serve It Up

Our favorite ways to serve up Harissa Tomato Sauce are endless! It’s perfect as a bold topping for grilled meats like chicken or lamb, adding a spicy kick to roasted vegetables like cauliflower or sweet potatoes.

It also works wonders as a pasta sauce, bringing a zesty, flavorful twist to spaghetti or penne. For a lighter option, serve it as a dip alongside crusty bread or pita, or drizzle it over a grain bowl with quinoa and roasted veggies.

How To Make Harissa Tomato Sauce More Tastier?

To make your harissa tomato sauce even tastier, here are five ideas to elevate the flavors:

✔ Add Fresh Herbs: Stir in fresh basil, oregano, or cilantro at the end of cooking for a burst of fresh flavor that complements the spiciness of the harissa.

✔ Roast the Tomatoes: For a deeper, caramelized flavor, roast the chopped tomatoes before adding them to the sauce. This will bring out their natural sweetness and add a rich depth.

✔ Incorporate a Splash of Balsamic Vinegar: A small drizzle of balsamic vinegar can balance the sauce’s flavors with a bit of sweetness and tang, enhancing the overall profile.

✔ Mix in a Creamy Element: Add a spoonful of heavy cream, Greek yogurt, or coconut milk for a creamy texture that softens the heat while adding richness to the sauce.

✔ Top with Toasted Nuts: Sprinkle roasted pine nuts or slivered almonds on top of the sauce before serving for added crunch and a nutty flavor that contrasts beautifully with the spice.

Is Harissa Healthy?

Harissa is generally considered healthy, as it’s made from natural ingredients like chili peppers, garlic, and olive oil, which provide antioxidants and vitamins.

The heat from the chili peppers can boost metabolism, while the spices offer anti-inflammatory properties.

However, it’s important to watch the portion size since it can be high in sodium depending on the brand.

Does Harissa Go With Tomatoes?

Yes, harissa pairs wonderfully with tomatoes! The spicy, smoky flavor of harissa complements the natural sweetness and acidity of tomatoes, creating a rich, balanced sauce.

It enhances tomato-based dishes like stews, pasta, and soups with an extra layer of depth and heat.

Is Harissa Like Tomato Paste?

No, harissa is not like tomato paste. While both are used in sauces, harissa is a spice-heavy chili paste with bold heat, smokiness, and aromatic flavors from various spices.

Tomato paste, on the other hand, is a concentrated form of tomatoes with a rich, slightly tangy taste and no heat. Harissa adds spice, while tomato paste provides a deep, umami tomato base.

Proper Storage Of Harissa Tomato Sauce

To keep it fresh and ready for future use, let the sauce cool completely before storing. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to one week.

For longer storage, freeze the sauce in a freezer-safe container or bag, and it will stay good for up to 3 months.

When you’re ready to use it again, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove. Properly stored, your successful harissa tomato sauce will continue to add bold flavor to your meals!

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Conclusion

My Harissa Tomato Sauce has truly been a success! With its perfect balance of heat, sweetness, and rich flavor, it has quickly become a favorite in my kitchen.

Whether served with grilled meats, pasta, or roasted veggies, it adds that extra layer of excitement to any dish. The combination of simple ingredients and easy preparation has proven to be a winning recipe.

I’m proud of the bold, delicious results, and it’s clear that this sauce has earned a permanent place in my culinary creations!