Does Harissa Contain Capsaicin? Unpacking the Spice Behind the Paste
                                
                                
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                                    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.