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Three-Chilli Harissa

This homemade three-chilli harissa is a vibrant, smoky condiment that brings a complex heat to any vegan kitchen. By blending dried guajillo and chipotle chillies with aromatic nigella and coriander seeds, you create a versatile paste that is far superior to shop-bought versions. The addition of Aleppo pepper provides a gentle frutiness, while the olive oil and vinegar finish the sauce with a balanced, silky texture.

Whether you are looking to marinate roasted vegetables, swirl heat into a hearty lentil stew, or elevate a simple grain bowl, this savoury paste is an essential fridge staple. It keeps well for up to a week, allowing the flavours to mature and meld over time for an even deeper punch.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Three-Chilli Harissa

  • 90g dried guajillo chillies (about 7 large or 15 small), seeds removed, torn into 1-inch pieces

  • 30g chipotle chillies (about 9 medium or 14 small), seeds removed, torn into 1-inch pieces

  • 1 tablespoon nigella seeds

  • 1 teaspoon coriander seeds

  • 2 garlic cloves

  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin

  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt

  • 1/2 teaspoons Aleppo pepper or 1/4 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes

  • 120ml olive oil

  • 2 tablespoons Champagne or white wine vinegar

  • Nigella seeds can be found at Indian markets, some supermarkets, or online.

  • A spice mill or a mortar and pestle

How to make Three-Chilli Harissa

Place guajillo and chipotle chillies in a large heatproof bowl and pour in boiling water to cover. Let chillies soak until softened, 40–45 minutes; drain.

Grind nigella seeds and coriander seeds in a spice mill or with a mortar and pestle. Transfer to a food processor and add garlic, cumin, salt, and Aleppo pepper and pulse until garlic is very finely chopped. Add chillies and pulse until they are chopped. Add oil and vinegar and pulse just until incorporated (mixture should have the texture of a coarse paste).

Harissa can be made 1 week 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.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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