Roasted Red Pepper Harissa
Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 28 Jan 2026
Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines
- DownloadDownload
- Share
- Language
- Discussion
This homemade roasted red pepper harissa is a vibrant, smoky condiment that brings a punch of North African flavour to your kitchen. By toasting whole spices like caraway and cumin before grinding, you unlock a depth of aroma that shop-bought versions simply cannot match. The addition of jarred roasted peppers provides a silky texture and a mellow sweetness, balancing the heat from the fresh red chilli.
As a versatile vegan staple, this sauce is excellent for stirring into stews, dressing roasted vegetables, or using as a bold marinade for tofu and plant-based proteins. It is a brilliant make-ahead option, as the spicy, savoury notes intensify after a night in the fridge. Serve it alongside warm flatbreads for an effortlessly impressive appetiser.
In this article:
Continue reading below
Ingredients for Roasted Red Pepper Harissa
4 garlic cloves
120ml olive oil
1/2 teaspoons caraway seeds
1/2 teaspoons coriander seeds
1/2 teaspoons cumin seeds
1/4 teaspoons black peppercorns
6 roasted red peppers from a jar, seeds removed
1 fresh red chilli (such as cayenne or Fresno), halved, seeds removed
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
1/2 teaspoons sugar
Kosher salt
A spice mill
How to make Roasted Red Pepper Harissa
Back to contentsCook garlic and oil in a small saucepan over medium until garlic is tender, 10–15 minutes. Let cool.
Meanwhile, toast caraway seeds, coriander seeds, cumin seeds, and peppercorns in a dry small skillet, tossing often, until fragrant, about 2 minutes. Let cool; finely grind in spice mill.
Blend spices, garlic and oil, roasted red peppers, chilli, vinegar, and sugar in a blender until smooth; season with salt.
Harissa can be made 1 day ahead. Cover and chill.
Disclaimer
While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.
Article history
The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.
28 Jan 2026 | Originally published
Authored by:
UK recipe editors
Peer reviewed by
UK recipe editors

Ask, share, connect.
Browse discussions, ask questions, and share experiences across hundreds of health topics.

Feeling unwell?
Assess your symptoms online for free
Sign up to the Patient newsletter
Your weekly dose of clear, trustworthy health advice - written to help you feel informed, confident and in control.
By subscribing you accept our Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe at any time. We never sell your data.