Best Harissa Substitutes for North African Cooking | Ingredient Swap Guide
The best substitute for harissa is Gochujang at a 1:1 ratio. It works best for marinades, glazes, sauces. There are 4 other alternatives below, each with exact ratios and usage notes.
Best Substitute
Gochujang
1:1
Sweeter and fermented but similar heat level. Works well in fusion dishes.
What are the other substitutes for harissa?
Sriracha + Cumin
1 tbsp sriracha + 1/4 tsp cumin for 1 tbsp
Add cumin to mimic harissa's spice profile. Mix in paprika for depth.
Chipotle in Adobo
1:1
Smoky heat but different flavor profile. Blend smooth for paste consistency.
Sambal Oelek + Spices
1 tbsp sambal + 1/4 tsp cumin + 1/4 tsp coriander
Add North African spices to sambal base. Mix in olive oil for richness.
Cayenne + Paprika + Olive Oil
1 tsp cayenne + 1 tbsp paprika + 2 tbsp olive oil
Add cumin and coriander for complexity. Creates a loose paste.
What should you know before substituting harissa?
Harissa varies in heat level by brand and region. Start with less of your substitute and adjust to taste. Rose harissa includes rose petals for floral notes.
How do you substitute harissa in a recipe?
Harissa is a North African chili paste featuring roasted red peppers, spices like cumin and coriander, and olive oil. It delivers complex heat with earthy, smoky undertones.
The best substitute for harissa depends on what role it plays in your recipe. Our top recommendation is Gochujang (1:1), which works well for marinades, glazes, sauces.
If you need a different option, Sriracha + Cumin (1 tbsp sriracha + 1/4 tsp cumin for 1 tbsp) is another reliable choice. Add cumin to mimic harissa's spice profile. Mix in paprika for depth.
When substituting harissa, consider the flavor profile, texture, and cooking method of your recipe. For vegan alternatives, look for the options marked with the vegan badge above.
Substitution ratios verified against USDA FoodData Central and FoodSafety.gov. See our testing methodology for details.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I use instead of harissa?
The best harissa substitutes are gochujang for similar heat and paste consistency, chipotle in adobo for smoky heat, or a mix of sriracha with cumin and paprika. You can also blend sambal oelek with North African spices like cumin and coriander.
Can I make harissa substitute at home?
Yes, mix 1 teaspoon cayenne, 1 tablespoon paprika, and 2 tablespoons olive oil, then add cumin and coriander to taste. This creates a simple harissa-style paste with adjustable heat.
Is sriracha a good substitute for harissa?
Sriracha can work but lacks harissa's earthy spices. For better results, add 1/4 teaspoon cumin per tablespoon of sriracha to mimic the North African spice profile.