Harissa Sauce

Ingredients

Dried chili peppers

6-8, depending on desired spice level

Garlic cloves

4, peeled

Ground cumin

1 teaspoon

Ground coriander

1 teaspoon

Caraway seeds

1/2 teaspoon

Salt

1 teaspoon, or to taste

Olive oil

1/4 cup

Lemon juice

2 tablespoons, freshly squeezed

Instructions

1. Start by placing the dried chili peppers in a bowl and covering them with hot water. Allow them to soak for about 10 minutes to soften.
2. Once softened, drain the chili peppers and remove the stems and seeds to control the heat level.
3. In a food processor or blender, combine the softened chili peppers, garlic cloves, ground cumin, ground coriander, caraway seeds, salt, olive oil, and lemon juice.
4. Blend the mixture until it is smooth and well combined. Feel free to adjust the thickness by adding more olive oil if desired.
5. Taste the harissa and adjust the seasoning with more salt or lemon juice according to your preference.
6. Transfer the harissa sauce to a clean jar or container. Seal it tightly and refrigerate until ready to use. The flavors will deepen as it sits.
7. Serve this spicy harissa sauce as a condiment with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or as a zesty dip for crusty bread.