15 Tunisian Harissa Holiday Recipes Perfect for North African Thanksgiving Heat

15 Tunisian Harissa Holiday Recipes Perfect for North African Thanksgiving Heat

Harissa Roasted Turkey With Citrus Glaze

spicy citrus glazed turkey recipe

Harissa Roasted Turkey with Citrus Glaze is a flavorful and aromatic dish that brings together the warmth of Tunisian spices and the bright freshness of citrus. Perfect for holiday gatherings, this roasted turkey is infused with harissa, a spicy chili paste, and topped with a sweet citrus glaze, making it a centerpiece that will impress your guests and elevate your festive feast.

Ingredients Quantity
Whole turkey 14-16 pounds
Harissa paste 1/2 cup
Olive oil 1/4 cup
Garlic cloves, minced 4
Salt 2 teaspoons
Ground black pepper 1 teaspoon
Fresh orange juice 1/2 cup
Fresh lemon juice 1/4 cup
Brown sugar 1/4 cup
Fresh herbs (thyme, parsley) 1/4 cup, chopped

Cooking Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
  2. In a bowl, mix harissa paste, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper to create a marinade.
  3. Rub the marinade all over the turkey, including underneath the skin and inside the cavity.
  4. In a separate bowl, mix orange juice, lemon juice, and brown sugar to create the citrus glaze.
  5. Place the turkey in a roasting pan and pour half of the citrus glaze over it.
  6. Roast the turkey for about 3 to 4 hours, basting with the remaining glaze every 30 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
  7. Allow the turkey to rest for 20-30 minutes before carving, then serve garnished with fresh herbs.
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Spicy Harissa Mashed Potatoes

spicy harissa mashed potatoes

Spicy Harissa Mashed Potatoes are a delicious twist on the classic mashed potato dish, infusing it with the vibrant flavors of harissa, a North African chili paste. This side dish is not only creamy and comforting but also packs a flavorful punch that pairs beautifully with your holiday meal, making it a perfect accompaniment to your harissa roasted turkey or any festive feast.

Ingredients Quantity
Potatoes, peeled and cubed 2 pounds
Harissa paste 2 tablespoons
Butter 4 tablespoons
Heavy cream or milk 1/2 cup
Garlic cloves, minced 2
Salt to taste
Ground black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped 1/4 cup

Cooking Instructions

  1. Boil the cubed potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
  2. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.
  3. Add butter, minced garlic, and harissa paste to the potatoes; mash until smooth.
  4. Gradually mix in heavy cream or milk until you reach your desired consistency.
  5. Season with salt and black pepper to taste, then stir in fresh parsley before serving.
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Harissa-Infused Carrot and Chickpea Salad

spicy carrot chickpea salad

Harissa-Infused Carrot and Chickpea Salad is a vibrant, nutrient-packed dish that brings together the earthiness of chickpeas and the sweetness of roasted carrots, all elevated by the bold flavors of harissa. This refreshing salad is perfect for a festive holiday gathering, offering a delightful balance between spicy and sweet. Serve it alongside your holiday meals for a touch of North African flair.

Ingredients Quantity
Carrots, peeled and sliced 4 medium
Canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed 1 can (15 oz)
Harissa paste 2 tablespoons
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Lemon juice 2 tablespoons
Ground cumin 1 teaspoon
Salt to taste
Ground black pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro, chopped 1/4 cup

Cooking Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the sliced carrots with olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper; arrange them on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes until tender.
  2. In a large bowl, mix the chickpeas, harissa paste, and lemon juice until evenly combined.
  3. Once the carrots are roasted and cooled slightly, add them to the chickpea mixture and toss gently.
  4. Finally, sprinkle fresh cilantro on top and serve warm or at room temperature. Adjust seasoning if needed.
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Grilled Harissa Shrimp Skewers

spicy grilled shrimp skewers

Grilled Harissa Shrimp Skewers are a delicious and flavorful dish perfect for holiday gatherings or summer barbecues. The combination of succulent shrimp marinated in spicy harissa paste and grilled to perfection creates a mouthwatering appetizer or main course that is sure to impress your guests. The smoky, spicy notes of harissa highlight the sweetness of the shrimp, making every bite a delightful experience.

Ingredients Quantity
Large shrimp, peeled and deveined 1 pound
Harissa paste 3 tablespoons
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Lemon juice 1 tablespoon
Garlic, minced 2 cloves
Ground cumin 1 teaspoon
Salt to taste
Ground black pepper to taste
Skewers (metal or soaked wooden) 6-8

Cooking Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine harissa paste, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper.
  2. Add the shrimp to the marinade and toss to coat. Allow it to marinate for at least 30 minutes (up to 2 hours) in the refrigerator.
  3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated shrimp onto the skewers.
  4. Grill the skewers for 2-3 minutes on each side, until the shrimp are opaque and cooked through.
  5. Remove from the grill and serve immediately, garnished with fresh herbs or lemon wedges if desired. Enjoy!
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Harissa Brussels Sprouts With Pomegranate Seeds

harissa brussels sprouts recipe

Harissa Brussels Sprouts with Pomegranate Seeds is a vibrant and healthy side dish that brings a unique twist to your holiday table. The combination of roasted Brussels sprouts, spicy harissa, and sweet-tart pomegranate seeds creates a delightful balance of flavors and textures, making this dish a standout complement to any main course.

Ingredients Quantity
Brussels sprouts, halved 1 pound
Harissa paste 2 tablespoons
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Salt to taste
Ground black pepper to taste
Pomegranate seeds 1 cup
Fresh parsley, chopped ¼ cup (for garnish)

Cooking Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a large bowl, combine the halved Brussels sprouts, harissa paste, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
  3. Spread the Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until they are caramelized and tender.
  4. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Toss with pomegranate seeds before serving.
  5. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm. Enjoy!
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Spiced Harissa Stuffing With Nuts and Dried Fruits

festive spiced harissa stuffing

Spiced Harissa Stuffing with Nuts and Dried Fruits is a festive and flavorful twist on traditional stuffing, perfect for enhancing your holiday meal. This hearty dish features a blend of spices, crunchy nuts, and sweet dried fruits, all bound together with a spicy harissa base, making it a delightful accompaniment to roast meats or a vegetarian main course.

Ingredients Quantity
Day-old bread, cubed 4 cups
Harissa paste 3 tablespoons
Vegetable broth 2 cups
Olive oil 3 tablespoons
Onion, finely chopped 1 medium
Celery, chopped 2 stalks
Garlic, minced 3 cloves
Mixed nuts (e.g., walnuts, almonds) 1 cup
Dried fruits (e.g., apricots, cranberries) 1 cup
Ground cumin 1 teaspoon
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Fresh herbs (e.g., parsley, thyme), chopped ¼ cup

Cooking Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onions, celery, and garlic until softened.
  3. Stir in the harissa paste and ground cumin, cooking for an additional minute.
  4. In a large bowl, combine the sautéed mixture with the bread cubes, mixed nuts, dried fruits, and vegetable broth. Add salt and pepper to taste, mixing until well combined.
  5. Transfer the stuffing mixture to a greased baking dish, cover with foil, and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until golden and crispy on top.
  6. Garnish with fresh herbs before serving, and enjoy this unique holiday stuffing!
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Creamy Harissa Dip With Pita Chips

creamy harissa dip recipe

Creamy Harissa Dip with Pita Chips is a delicious and versatile appetizer that combines the smoky, spicy flavors of harissa with a rich and creamy base. This dip is perfect for holiday gatherings, served alongside crunchy pita chips for a delightful contrast in texture. It’s simple to make and offers a unique twist that will entice your guests and elevate any festive spread.

Ingredients Quantity
Cream cheese 8 oz
Greek yogurt ½ cup
Harissa paste 2 tablespoons
Lemon juice 1 tablespoon
Garlic, minced 1 clove
Olive oil 1 tablespoon
Salt to taste
Fresh herbs (e.g., cilantro), chopped 2 tablespoons
Pita chips for serving

Cooking Instructions

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, Greek yogurt, harissa paste, lemon juice, minced garlic, and olive oil. Mix until smooth and creamy.
  2. Add salt to taste and incorporate fresh herbs into the dip.
  3. Transfer the dip to a serving bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  4. Serve chilled with pita chips for dipping. Enjoy this flavorful and easy holiday treat!
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Harissa Glazed Sweet Potatoes

spicy sweet potato glaze

Harissa Glazed Sweet Potatoes are a delightful side dish that combines the sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with the bold and spicy flavors of harissa. This recipe is perfect for holiday gatherings and adds a vibrant burst of color and taste to your festive menu. The sweet, caramelized edges of the potatoes perfectly complement the smoky, spicy glaze, making this dish a standout at any celebration.

Ingredients Quantity
Sweet potatoes 2 large
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Harissa paste 3 tablespoons
Honey 1 tablespoon
Salt to taste
Ground cumin ½ teaspoon
Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish

Cooking Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Peel and cut sweet potatoes into 1-inch cubes, then place in a large bowl.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, harissa paste, honey, salt, and ground cumin.
  4. Pour the harissa mixture over the sweet potatoes and toss to coat evenly.
  5. Spread the sweet potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  6. Roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes or until tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
  7. Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve warm.
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Harissa Roasted Cauliflower With Tahini Sauce

harissa cauliflower with tahini

Harissa Roasted Cauliflower with Tahini Sauce is a flavorful and aromatic dish that transforms simple cauliflower into a standout centerpiece for your holiday table. The spicy, smoky notes of harissa enhance the natural sweetness of the cauliflower, while a creamy tahini sauce adds a rich and nutty contrast. This dish is not only visually appealing but also offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors that everyone will love.

Ingredients Quantity
Cauliflower florets 1 large head
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Harissa paste 2 tablespoons
Salt to taste
Ground coriander 1 teaspoon
Ground cumin 1 teaspoon
Tahini 1/4 cup
Lemon juice 2 tablespoons
Water 2-3 tablespoons, as needed
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Cooking Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil, harissa paste, salt, ground coriander, and ground cumin until evenly coated.
  3. Spread the cauliflower on a baking sheet in a single layer and roast for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and tender, flipping halfway through.
  4. Meanwhile, in a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, and water until smooth. Adjust water for desired consistency.
  5. Once the cauliflower is roasted, drizzle with tahini sauce, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.
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Harissa and Honey Glazed Carrots

spicy sweet carrot side dish

Harissa and Honey Glazed Carrots are a deliciously sweet and spicy side dish that brings a touch of warmth to your holiday table. The sticky glaze enhances the natural earthiness of the carrots while the harissa adds a delightful kick, making them an irresistible addition to any meal. This dish balances sweetness with spiciness, making it a perfect harmony of flavors that both adults and children will enjoy.

Ingredients Quantity
Baby carrots 1 pound
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Harissa paste 1 tablespoon
Honey 2 tablespoons
Salt to taste
Ground cumin 1/2 teaspoon
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Cooking Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a large bowl, mix olive oil, harissa paste, honey, salt, and ground cumin until well combined.
  3. Add the baby carrots to the bowl and toss them until they are evenly coated in the harissa and honey mixture.
  4. Spread the coated carrots on a baking sheet in a single layer and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender and caramelized, tossing halfway through.
  5. Once done, remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Tunisian Harissa Meatballs With Dipping Sauce

tunisian harissa meatballs recipe

Tunisian Harissa Meatballs with Dipping Sauce is a vibrant and flavorful dish that showcases the rich spices of Tunisian cuisine. Packed with a zesty kick from harissa, these meatballs are perfect for serving as an appetizer during holiday gatherings or as a main dish paired with a refreshing dipping sauce. The combination of spices and herbs creates a delightful fusion that will spice up any holiday menu.

Ingredients Quantity
Ground beef or lamb 1 pound
Harissa paste 2 tablespoons
Onions, finely chopped 1 small
Garlic, minced 2 cloves
Fresh parsley, chopped 1/4 cup
Ground cumin 1 teaspoon
Ground coriander 1 teaspoon
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Egg 1 large
Breadcrumbs 1/2 cup
Olive oil for frying

Cooking Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground meat, harissa, chopped onions, garlic, parsley, spices, salt, pepper, egg, and breadcrumbs until well incorporated.
  2. Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
  3. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and fry the meatballs until they are browned on all sides and cooked through, about 10-12 minutes.
  4. Serve warm with your choice of dipping sauce, such as yogurt or tahini sauce. Enjoy!

Harissa Quinoa Salad With Fresh Herbs

harissa quinoa salad recipe

Harissa Quinoa Salad with Fresh Herbs is a refreshing and nutritious dish that combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the vibrant heat of harissa. This salad is perfect for holiday gatherings, offering a satisfying option for guests looking for a light yet flavorful side dish or main course. Packed with fresh herbs and a touch of spice, it’s sure to be a hit at any festive table.

Ingredients Quantity
Quinoa 1 cup
Water 2 cups
Harissa paste 2 tablespoons
Cherry tomatoes, halved 1 cup
Cucumber, diced 1 medium
Red onion, finely chopped 1 small
Fresh parsley, chopped 1/4 cup
Fresh mint, chopped 1/4 cup
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Lemon juice 1 tablespoon
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

  1. Rinse the quinoa under cold water and then cook it in a pot with 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer until quinoa is fluffy and water is absorbed (about 15 minutes).
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, harissa, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, parsley, and mint.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Pour this dressing over the quinoa salad and toss to combine.
  4. Serve chilled or at room temperature, garnished with additional herbs if desired. Enjoy!

Spicy Harissa Deviled Eggs

spicy harissa deviled eggs

Spicy Harissa Deviled Eggs are a delightful twist on the classic deviled eggs, bringing a zesty kick that is perfect for holiday parties or gatherings. The addition of harissa paste adds depth and spiciness to the creamy filling, making these deviled eggs a standout appetizer that will impress your guests and keep them coming back for more.

Ingredients Quantity
Hard-boiled eggs 6 large
Mayonnaise 3 tablespoons
Harissa paste 1 tablespoon
Dijon mustard 1 teaspoon
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) 1 tablespoon

Cooking Instructions

  1. Peel the hard-boiled eggs and slice them in half lengthwise. Remove the yolks and place them in a mixing bowl.
  2. Mash the yolks with a fork and mix in the mayonnaise, harissa paste, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
  3. Spoon or pipe the yolk mixture back into the egg white halves.
  4. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve. Enjoy!

Harissa Braised Green Beans

harissa infused green bean dish

Harissa Braised Green Beans are a vibrant and flavorful side dish that adds a unique twist to your holiday table. The green beans are cooked until tender and infused with the rich, spicy notes of harissa, creating a dish that complements meats and other sides beautifully. This recipe is not only simple but also enhances the natural sweetness of the green beans, making it a delicious addition to festive meals.

Ingredients Quantity
Fresh green beans 1 pound
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Harissa paste 2 tablespoons
Garlic, minced 2 cloves
Vegetable broth ½ cup
Lemon juice 1 tablespoon
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Toasted almonds (for garnish) ¼ cup

Cooking Instructions

  1. Wash and trim the ends of the green beans.
  2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
  3. Stir in the harissa paste and cook for another minute.
  4. Add the green beans and vegetable broth, then stir to coat the beans in the harissa mixture.
  5. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 8-10 minutes until the green beans are tender.
  6. Remove from heat and stir in the lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Garnish with toasted almonds before serving. Enjoy!

Harissa Chocolate Truffles for Dessert

harissa chocolate truffles recipe

Harissa Chocolate Truffles are a delightful fusion dessert that combines rich chocolate with the subtle heat of harissa, creating an intriguing flavor profile. These truffles are smooth, creamy, and perfect for a festive end to your holiday meal, impressing guests with their unique twist on traditional sweets.

Ingredients Quantity
Dark chocolate, chopped 8 ounces
Heavy cream ½ cup
Harissa paste 1 tablespoon
Powdered sugar ¼ cup
Cocoa powder (for rolling) ½ cup
Sea salt a pinch
Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon

Cooking Instructions

  1. In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until just simmering. Remove from heat and stir in harissa paste until well combined.
  2. Place the chopped dark chocolate in a mixing bowl. Pour the hot cream mixture over the chocolate and let it sit for a few minutes to melt.
  3. Stir until smooth, then incorporate the powdered sugar, sea salt, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
  4. Refrigerate the mixture for about 1-2 hours or until firm.
  5. Once set, scoop out small portions and roll them into balls. Roll each truffle in cocoa powder to coat.
  6. Arrange on a serving platter and refrigerate until ready to serve. Enjoy your flavorful dessert!

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Hi! I’m Emily. I’m a cozy‑kitchen tinkerer turning everyday ingredients into crave‑worthy plates—quick sizzles, bright flavors, and zero fuss, always with a smile. Playlist on, whisk in hand, I chase comfort that tastes a little sparkly and a lot homemade—playful, practical, and unapologetically delicious.