Summary

Rose Harissa is a captivating blend that marries the heat of traditional Harissa with the floral subtlety of roses and a hint of citrus. This spice blend includes Guajillo, Roses, Caraway, European Coriander, Smoked Paprika, Garlic, Paprika, Chili Pepper, Cumin, Kosher Salt, Citric Acid, and Indonesian Cinnamon. It's a salt-inclusive mix that brings a surprising twist of floral and citrus notes, making it a unique variant in the world of spice blends.

History

Harissa's roots stretch deep into North African cuisine, particularly in countries like Tunisia, Libya, Algeria, and Morocco. Traditionally, it's a fiery, garlicky paste made with various chilies, garlic, herbs, and spices. The introduction of roses into Harissa is a modern twist, inspired by Middle Eastern influences where rose petals are often used to add a layer of fragrance and flavor to dishes. This blend, with its nod to the culinary stylings of chef Yotam Ottolenghi, showcases the evolving nature of spice blends as they travel and transform through cultures and kitchens around the world.

The use of roses in cooking dates back to ancient times, with their culinary use being prominent in Middle Eastern and South Asian cuisines. In these regions, roses are more than just decorative; they are integral to the flavor profile of numerous traditional dishes. By incorporating roses into this Harissa blend, we bridge culinary traditions from different parts of the world, creating a product that is both familiar and excitingly novel.

Why We Love It

The floral notes from the roses provide a perfect counterbalance to the smoky, spicy elements of the Harissa, making it an exceptional choice for elevating simple recipes. Whether it's rubbed on meats, stirred into stews, or added to vegetable roasts, Rose Harissa offers a multi-dimensional flavor that is both bold and subtly sweet.

The More You Know

And for a bit of trivia: this blend's inspiration, Ottolenghi, is famed for his innovative and cross-cultural approach to food, something that Rose Harissa encapsulates beautifully.