Harissa is the spicy North African chili paste associated especially with Tunisia.
Harissa is made from chili peppers, garlic, olive oil and spices such as caraway, coriander and cumin. It is used as a condiment, marinade or cooking ingredient, adding both heat and a deep, aromatic flavor to soups, stews, couscous and grilled foods.
Although harissa is strongly identified with Tunisia, it is used across the Maghreb, including Algeria, Libya and Morocco. Recipes vary by region and household, with different chili varieties and spice blends producing different levels of heat.
Harissa is not the same as ajvar, a Balkan pepper relish, or romesco, a Catalan sauce containing nuts and roasted peppers. Its North African identity and characteristic spice profile distinguish it from those preparations.