Does Harissa Contain Capsaicin? Unpacking the Spice Behind the Paste

December 14, 2025 •

4 min read

Over 6,000 years of culinary history show chili peppers have been a staple in diets, and harissa's signature heat is directly linked to these chiles. This North African condiment contains capsaicin, the potent chemical compound found in chili peppers, which gives it its characteristic spicy kick.

Quick Summary

Harissa, a spicy North African paste, contains capsaicin because it is primarily made from chili peppers. The level of spiciness depends on the specific type of chiles and quantities used, allowing for significant variation in heat across different recipes and commercial brands.

Key Points

Capsaicin Source: Harissa contains capsaicin because its main ingredient is chili peppers, from the Capsicum genus.
Variable Heat: The spiciness of harissa depends entirely on the type and quantity of chili peppers used, resulting in mild to fiery variations.
Pith is Hottest: The majority of a pepper's capsaicin is concentrated in the white pith, not the seeds, allowing for heat adjustment.
Homemade vs. Store-bought: Making harissa at home provides complete control over the capsaicin level, whereas commercial brands have varied heat profiles.
Health Effects: Capsaicin is linked to potential health benefits like boosting metabolism and pain relief, but its effect varies based on the amount consumed.
Flavor Profile: Harissa's complex flavor includes more than just heat, with spices like cumin and coriander providing earthy notes alongside the capsaicin's punch.

Understanding Capsaicin and Its Role

Capsaicin is a chemical compound produced by plants of the Capsicum genus, which includes all varieties of chili peppers. It is the active ingredient that causes a burning sensation when it comes into contact with human tissue, particularly the mouth and skin. This effect is not due to an actual burn, but rather capsaicin binding to pain receptors, specifically TRPV1, which are triggered by heat. The level of capsaicin in a pepper is measured using the Scoville scale, where higher Scoville Heat Units (SHU) indicate more capsaicin and, therefore, greater heat.

The Anatomy of a Chili Pepper and Capsaicin

Contrary to popular belief, the seeds of a chili pepper contain no capsaicin. The highest concentration of the compound is found in the white pith or placental tissue that holds the seeds. This is why removing this part of the pepper is an effective way to reduce its heat. The capsaicin content can also vary based on the pepper's genetics, growing conditions, and maturity. For example, a water-stressed pepper may have a higher concentration of capsaicin.

Deconstructing Harissa's Ingredients

Harissa is a complex and aromatic paste that varies by region, and even by household. Its core ingredient, however, is always chili peppers. Other common ingredients that round out its flavor profile include:

Garlic: Adds a pungent depth to the paste.
Spices: Ground cumin, coriander, and caraway are staple additions that provide an earthy flavor.
Oil: Olive oil is used to create the paste and help preserve it.
Acids: Lemon juice or vinegar are sometimes added for brightness.
Other Additions: Some variations include roasted bell peppers for bulk and sweetness, tomato paste, mint, or even rose petals for a floral twist.

The Variability of Harissa Heat

Because harissa is made with real chili peppers, the quantity and type of chiles used directly influence its capsaicin content and resulting spice level. Homemade harissa offers complete control over the heat, while store-bought brands can vary significantly. Traditional recipes, particularly from Tunisia, often use the native Baklouti pepper, which is relatively mild, but other recipes may use hotter chiles for a more fiery result.

Comparison of Harissa and Other Chili Pastes


Feature	Harissa	Sriracha	Gochujang
Origin	North Africa (predominantly Tunisian)	Thailand/Vietnam	Korea
Primary Heat Source	Dried red chilies (capsaicin)	Red jalapeño peppers (capsaicin)	Gochu (Korean chili peppers) (capsaicin)
Flavor Profile	Earthy, smoky, peppery, aromatic with caraway, coriander, and cumin	Tangy, garlicky, and sweeter than harissa	Sweet, fermented, and savory with a deep umami flavor
Heat Level	Highly variable, from mild to very hot	Generally consistent, medium heat	Typically medium-mild, but varies
Texture	Thick, rustic paste	Smooth sauce	Thick, sticky paste

How to Control Capsaicin Levels in Harissa

For those who enjoy the complex flavor of harissa but want to manage the heat, there are several strategies. When making homemade harissa, selecting specific chiles is the most effective approach. For a milder paste, use dried sweet bell peppers or roasted red bell peppers as the base, incorporating only a small amount of spicier chiles like Fresnos or serranos if desired. When buying harissa, reading the ingredient list can offer clues about its potential spiciness. Finally, the heat of finished harissa can be tempered by adding ingredients like yogurt, lemon juice, or extra olive oil.

The Health Benefits Linked to Capsaicin in Harissa

Beyond its culinary role, the capsaicin found in harissa may contribute to several health benefits. Research suggests that capsaicin can act as a metabolism booster, assist in appetite reduction, and possess anti-inflammatory properties. The compound also interacts with pain receptors, which some studies suggest could lead to pain relief with repeated use by desensitizing nerve endings. While these potential benefits are promising, the concentration and bioavailability of capsaicin in harissa can vary, so the effects will not be the same for everyone.

Conclusion: The Spicy Truth About Harissa

To answer the question, "Does harissa contain capsaicin?", the answer is a definitive yes, provided it is made with chili peppers. Capsaicin is the natural chemical found in all peppers from the Capsicum family, which are the fundamental ingredient in virtually all harissa recipes. The level of heat and capsaicin varies greatly depending on the specific types of chilies used by the chef or manufacturer, offering a wide range of flavor experiences for consumers. Whether you prefer a subtle warmth or a fiery punch, understanding the capsaicin content allows you to choose or create a harissa that perfectly suits your palate.

For more information on the wide range of chile peppers and their capsaicin levels, you can consult reliable food and science resources.(https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chili_pepper)

Frequently Asked Questions

The primary ingredient in harissa responsible for its spicy flavor is chili peppers, which contain the chemical compound capsaicin.

Yes, it is possible to find mild versions of harissa, and some recipes are made with mild peppers like roasted bell peppers instead of hot chilies, producing a much milder flavor.

No, the spiciness of harissa is highly variable, depending on the type and quantity of chili peppers used in its preparation.

Capsaicin is linked to several health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties, metabolism boosting, and appetite reduction.

You can reduce the heat of store-bought harissa by mixing it with dairy products like yogurt or sour cream, or by adding a squeeze of lemon juice or extra olive oil.

Besides chili peppers, harissa typically contains a blend of ground spices such as caraway, cumin, and coriander, along with garlic and olive oil.

Capsaicin is an oil-like compound that repels water. Drinking water will only spread the capsaicin around your mouth, while dairy products or alcohol are more effective at dissolving it.