Harissa

Harissa is a spicy paste or sauce made from chili peppers, garlic, cumin, coriander, and caraway seeds. It originated in North Africa, particularly Tunisia and Algeria. The ingredients are typically roasted or blended together to create a flavorful and often fiery condiment.

Manufacturers add harissa to provide a spicy, smoky, and complex flavor profile to foods. It is commonly used in dips, sauces, marinades, and as a condiment for meats and vegetables. Its vibrant red color also adds visual appeal.

Harissa is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used as a food ingredient. The primary ingredients, such as chili peppers and spices, are common food items with no specific regulatory limits for typical consumption. International bodies like JECFA have evaluated many individual spices and flavorings, but harissa itself is not typically assigned a specific ADI. Evidence does not suggest adverse health effects from consuming harissa in typical amounts as part of a balanced diet.