Spicy Harissa Mayonnaise is a versatile condiment that can add a kick to any dish. One tablespoon (15 g) of Spicy Harissa Mayo contains 100 calories, making it a flavorful addition to any meal.
In addition to its delicious taste, Spicy Harissa Mayo also provides some nutritional benefits. It is a good source of healthy fats and contains small amounts of vitamins and minerals like vitamin E and potassium. However, due to its high calorie and fat content, it should be consumed in moderation.
In this article, we'll explore everything you need to know about Spicy Harissa Mayonnaise, from its taste and health benefits to how to make it at home and where to buy it.
Spicy Harissa Mayonnaise is a blend of traditional mayo with spicy North African Harissa paste. It is a perfect condiment to add heat to sandwiches, burgers, tacos and more. Harissa, a paste made from chili peppers, garlic, oil and various spices, is widely used in North African and Middle Eastern cuisine. Harissa varies in terms of spiciness, depending on the type and amount of chili used. Spicy Harissa Mayonnaise can range from mild to extremely hot. It is important to note the level of spiciness before adding it to your dishes.
Calories in Spicy Harissa Mayonnaise
One tablespoon (15 g) of Spicy Harissa Mayonnaise contains around 100 calories, 10 grams of fat, and 2 grams of carbs. Although it is a decent source of healthy fats as mentioned earlier, it contains saturated and trans fats, which can have negative impacts on heart health if consumed in excess. Therefore, it is best to use Spicy Harissa Mayo in moderation and pair it with nutrient-dense foods like fresh vegetables.
The Taste of Spicy Harissa Mayo
Spicy Harissa Mayo has a bold, smoky flavor with a kick of heat. The spiciness level can vary depending on the brand and recipe, but it is generally hotter than regular mayo. The rich creamy texture of mayonnaise mixed with the complex flavor of Harissa paste makes a perfect balance of taste and texture. It is an easy way to add a burst of flavor to your sandwiches, burgers, and wraps. For those who enjoy spice, Spicy Harissa Mayo is a must-try condiment.
Using Spicy Harissa Mayo in Cooking
Spicy Harissa Mayo can be used in various dishes and recipes to add a spicy kick. It works well as a dipping sauce for fries, chicken wings or vegetables. It can also be used as a spread in sandwiches or as a dressing in salads. For those who prefer homemade recipes, Spicy Harissa Mayo can be used as an easy substitute for Harissa paste. Simply mix it with some tomato paste, garlic, and spices to create a homemade Harissa sauce.
Health Benefits of Spicy Harissa Mayonnaise
Spicy Harissa Mayonnaise may offer some health benefits due to its ingredients. Mayo contains healthy fats, while Harissa paste has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties from chili peppers, garlic, and some spices. Additionally, capsaicin, a compound found in chili peppers, has been linked to weight loss, improved digestion, and reduced inflammation. However, more research is needed to fully understand the health benefits of Spicy Harissa Mayo.
Variations of Spicy Harissa Mayonnaise
Spicy Harissa Mayo can vary in taste and spiciness level depending on the brand or recipe. Some brands may contain additional ingredients like lemon juice, garlic, or smoked paprika to enhance the flavor. For those who prefer a milder taste, they can mix Spicy Harissa Mayo with regular mayo or sour cream. Alternatively, they can make a homemade Spicy Harissa Mayo and adjust the spiciness level to their preference.
Making Spicy Harissa Mayonnaise at Home
Making Spicy Harissa Mayo at home is easy and straightforward. All you need is regular mayo, Harissa paste, and some lemon juice. Simply whisk together the ingredients in a bowl until smooth and creamy. Spicy Harissa Mayo can also be made with homemade mayo, which can be a healthier alternative to store-bought mayo. The homemade mayo can be made with egg yolks, oil, and lemon juice.
Best Dishes to Pair with Spicy Harissa Mayonnaise
Spicy Harissa Mayo can be used in many dishes, from sandwiches and burgers to tacos and salads. It pairs well with grilled meats and vegetables, providing a spicy kick to the dish. It can also be used in dipping sauces for fries or chicken wings, or as a spread in wraps or sandwiches. For those who are vegan or vegetarian, Spicy Harissa Mayo can be used as a dressing in vegetable salads or as a dip for fresh veggies.
Popular Brands of Spicy Harissa Mayonnaise
There are many brands of Spicy Harissa Mayonnaise available in the market. Some popular brands include Sir Kensington's, Primal Kitchen, and Stonewall Kitchen. Each brand has its own recipe and spiciness level, so it is important to read the label before purchasing. Alternatively, Spicy Harissa Mayo can be made at home using store-bought mayo and Harissa paste. This allows for customization of the spiciness level and ingredients.
Where to Buy Spicy Harissa Mayonnaise
Spicy Harissa Mayo can be found in most grocery stores, health food stores or online retailers. Some popular stores that carry Spicy Harissa Mayonnaise include Whole Foods, Trader Joe's, and Amazon. It is important to read the label and check the spiciness level and ingredients before purchasing. Some brands may contain additional ingredients like sugar and preservatives, which may not be suitable for some people.
5 FAQs About Spicy Harissa Mayonnaise
1. What is Harissa Mayonnaise?
Harissa Mayonnaise is a spicy condiment made by adding harissa, a North African chili paste, to traditional mayonnaise. It adds a zesty kick to sandwiches and burgers and can also be used as a dip for fries or veggies.
2. How spicy is Spicy Harissa Mayonnaise?
Spiciness can vary based on the specific brand and recipe used, but generally, Spicy Harissa Mayonnaise is moderately spicy. You can adjust the spiciness to your liking by adding more or less harissa or mayonnaise to the mixture.
3. Is Spicy Harissa Mayonnaise healthy?
Mayonnaise, in general, is not considered a health food due to its high fat content. However, using a small amount of Spicy Harissa Mayonnaise as a condiment can add flavor without adding too many calories. Be mindful of portion sizes when using this condiment.
4. What are some ways to use Spicy Harissa Mayonnaise?
Spicy Harissa Mayonnaise can be used in a variety of ways! It's great as a spread on sandwiches and burgers, or as a dip for French fries, sweet potato fries or veggies like carrot sticks or cucumber slices. You can also use it as a sauce for grilled chicken or fish.
5. Where can I find Spicy Harissa Mayonnaise?
You may be able to find Spicy Harissa Mayonnaise at specialty food stores or online. Alternatively, you can make your own by mixing harissa and mayonnaise together to your desired level of spiciness.