A Nationally Recognized Treasure, Globally Celebrated
In 2022, Harissa—the knowledge, skills, and culinary and social practices associated with it—was officially inscribed onto UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. In the heart of Cap Bon, from Nabeul to Dar Allouche, this distinction is a well-deserved recognition for a product that is much more than a simple condiment: it is the soul of Tunisian cuisine.
The Cap Bon Heritage
Harissa has its deepest roots in the Cap Bon region. It is here, thanks to the ideal climate, that the red peppers grow, giving it its strength and color. Every family has its own secret recipe, passed down from mother to daughter, ensuring the authenticity and diversity of its flavors.
The Art of “Homemade”
Unlike the industrial version, artisanal Harissa from Cap Bon stands out through:
- Pepper Selection: Sun-dried or used fresh, depending on the desired taste.
- The Pounding: Traditionally made with a mortar and pestle to preserve all the essential oils of the spices.
- Noble Ingredients: Local garlic, caraway, freshly ground coriander, and the indispensable virgin olive oil.
How to Taste It During Your Stay?
At Diar El Horri, we encourage our travelers to experience Harissa like a local:
- Champion’s Breakfast: A touch of Harissa, a drizzle of olive oil, and warm, crusty bread.
- As an Accompaniment: It wonderfully enhances grilled fish and couscous that you can prepare in your apartment.
Did You Know?
The word “Harissa” comes from the Arabic verb “Harasa,” which means “to crush” or “to grind.” It is this manual action that makes all the difference and captivated the UNESCO experts.
Live the cultural and culinary immersion of Cap Bon by making Diar El Horri your home base.