Authentic Tunisian Harissa Chili Paste
North African harissa (hot chilli paste with caraway, garlic and olive oil) is a Tunisian and Moroccan heritage recognised worldwide: a fiery red seasoning that wakes up the senses and gives dishes an irresistible warmth. Its glycemic index does not apply because a portion contains practically no carbohydrate, and it is fuel for metabolism and immunity.
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💡 Smart Nutritional Guidance
Consumption advice
Add a teaspoon to tomato sauces, or mix it with olive oil as a dip for grilled meat and fish to boost fat burning.
Best preparation methods
It is made by grinding dried red chillies with garlic, caraway seeds, dried coriander and pure extra virgin olive oil; avoid commercial versions with added starch or sugar.
Important Nutritional Note
The concentrated capsaicin in harissa triggers endorphin release and, over time, helps lower blood pressure and raise the metabolic rate, but it is not allowed with an active peptic ulcer.
Nutrition facts
| Nutrient | Per 100 g | Per typical portion (15 g) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 88 kcal | 13.2 kcal |
| Protein | 3.2 g | 0.5 g |
| Carbohydrate | 12 g | 1.8 g |
| Available carbohydrate | 7.5 g | 1.1 g |
| Fat | 2.8 g | 0.4 g |
| Dietary fibre | 4.5 g | 0.7 g |
The typical portion is approximate, for comparison purposes.
Comparison & smarter alternatives
It has 88 kcal per 100 g, ranking 6 of 9 in Sauces, pickles & olives (lowest first).
Related foods from the same family:
Frequently asked questions
Does hot harissa raise blood sugar?
Not at all: a spoonful contains very little carbohydrate (about 1 g), and hot pepper even supports insulin sensitivity.
How many calories are in a tablespoon of natural harissa (15 g)?
Only about 13 kcal, mainly from the drops of extra virgin olive oil and the chilli powder, with no hydrogenated fat.
Does harissa cause haemorrhoids?
Chilli does not cause haemorrhoids by itself, but it can cause painful irritation on the toilet in people who already have fissures or inflamed haemorrhoids.
Reviewed by the WiBo Health medical team · Last reviewed 13 October 2026
Disclaimer: This guidance is for nutritional lifestyle orientation and does not constitute a diagnostic medical device under EU Regulation MDR 2017/745.