Harissa Carrot Dip

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Harissa Carrot Dip brings together the best of sweet, smoky, and spicy flavors in a creamy and satisfying dip. The roasted carrots provide a natural sweetness that is perfectly balanced by the heat from the harissa and the warmth of cumin and smoked paprika. The tahini adds a rich, nutty depth, while the lime and lemon juice brighten the entire dish. Topped with fresh dill and sesame seeds, this dip is as visually appealing as it is delicious. It’s a great addition to any party, or simply a healthy snack for any time of the day.

Ingredients

• 6 large carrots, scrubbed and cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 large shallot, quartered
• 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 2 garlic cloves
• 1 tablespoon harissa (mild or spicy)
• 4 tablespoons lime juice (about 2 limes)
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
• 1 tablespoon tahini

For Serving:

• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill fronds
• 2 teaspoons black sesame seeds
• Flakey salt
• Warm pita bread or fresh cut veggies

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. On the prepared baking sheet, toss the carrot pieces and shallot with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and cumin seeds. Spread them out in a single layer.
3. Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the carrots are tender and slightly caramelized, stirring halfway through for even roasting.
4. Remove from the oven and allow to cool for a few minutes.
5. Once the vegetables are cool enough to handle, transfer them to a food processor. Add the garlic, harissa, lime juice, lemon juice, and tahini.
6. Pulse the mixture until smooth and creamy. If the dip is too thick, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil and process again until it reaches your desired consistency.
7. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more salt, pepper, or harissa if you prefer a spicier dip.
8. Transfer the dip to a serving bowl. Garnish with chopped fresh dill fronds, black sesame seeds, and a sprinkle of flakey salt.
9. Serve with warm pita bread, fresh cut veggies, or crackers.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves about 4-6 people as an appetizer or snack. It takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to roast the carrots, so expect a total time of around 40 minutes.

Variations

• Add More Spice: If you love heat, feel free to add extra harissa or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dip.
• Herb Variations: While dill adds a nice fresh flavor, you can experiment with other herbs like cilantro or parsley for a different twist.
• Nut-Free: If you’re allergic to sesame, skip the tahini and use a little extra olive oil or Greek yogurt as a substitute.
• Roasted Garlic: For a sweeter, milder garlic flavor, roast the garlic along with the carrots and shallot.

Storage/Reheating

Store the dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It can be served cold, or you can gently reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop. If it thickens after refrigerating, just stir in a little water or olive oil to restore its creamy consistency.

FAQs

1. Can I make Harissa Carrot Dip ahead of time?

Yes, this dip can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. The flavors will actually deepen and meld together, making it even more delicious the next day.

2. What is harissa and where can I find it?

Harissa is a North African chili paste made from hot peppers, garlic, olive oil, and spices like cumin and coriander. It can be found in many grocery stores, particularly in the international or Middle Eastern aisle, or you can buy it online.

3. Can I use pre-cut carrots for this recipe?

Yes, pre-cut carrots will save you some time, but whole carrots are preferred for better roasting and flavor.

4. Can I make this dip vegan?

Yes, this dip is naturally vegan as long as you use a plant-based tahini. If you’re using pita bread or veggies for dipping, make sure they are also vegan-friendly.

5. What else can I serve this dip with?

In addition to pita bread and veggies, you can serve this dip with crackers, toasted flatbreads, or even as a spread on sandwiches and wraps.

6. Can I use a blender instead of a food processor?

Yes, a blender can be used, but a food processor typically makes it easier to achieve a creamy, thick consistency. You may need to scrape down the sides of the blender to get everything well combined.

7. Can I freeze this dip?

While you can freeze the dip, it may change in texture when thawed due to the tahini and olive oil. If you do freeze it, store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and stir before serving.

8. Can I use a different type of oil for roasting?

Yes, you can use any neutral oil like avocado oil or sunflower oil for roasting the carrots and shallots if you prefer. Olive oil adds a great flavor, but it’s not the only option.

9. How can I adjust the consistency of the dip?

If the dip is too thick, simply add more olive oil or water a tablespoon at a time until it reaches your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, add a bit more tahini or even some roasted carrots to thicken it.

10. What if I don’t have fresh lime or lemon juice?

If you don’t have fresh lime or lemon juice, you can use bottled juice, though fresh will always give the best flavor. Alternatively, you can skip the citrus entirely if you prefer a less tangy dip.

Conclusion

Harissa Carrot Dip is a flavorful, vibrant, and versatile dish that brings a burst of color and taste to any table. With its creamy texture and perfect balance of sweetness, spice, and tang, this dip is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you serve it with pita, fresh veggies, or crackers, it’s a great choice for any occasion, from casual snacks to dinner parties. With a few simple ingredients and easy preparation, this dip will quickly become a favorite!

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