Sriracha, a reasonable substitute for harissa in many dishes
Sriracha, a Thai condiment with a similar spiciness, can substitute for harissa in many dishes, although it is not a perfect replacement.
Harissa is a North African chili paste made from roasted red peppers, garlic, cumin, coriander, and other ground, aromatic ingredients. It adds heat to dishes like grilled shrimp, sweet potato and chickpea stew, hummus, and lamb. If you don't have harissa, sriracha offers a similar level of spiciness and a flavor that works well in many recipes.
Sriracha is made with red jalapeño peppers, vinegar, garlic, sugar, and salt. It has a balanced flavor with sweetness, salty notes, spiciness, and a pronounced garlicky note. It works well as a marinade for grilled chicken or blended into sauces and soups. Adding a pinch of smoked paprika or cumin partially replicates the smoky and earthy notes of harissa. Its texture is always smooth, while harissa's can range from smooth to lumpy depending on the brand and preparation.
Other alternatives include sambal oelek, which is made mostly of ground chilies and has a comparable heat level, though it lacks the spice blend of harissa. Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce add a smoky flavor, but the intense taste of that sauce may not suit every dish. Cayenne pepper and red pepper flakes provide heat without the depth of flavor, so they serve more as a complement than a complete substitute.
Sriracha is often the best choice because of its similar, balanced flavor. It pairs well with stir-fries and dipping sauces, while the intensely flavored cayenne pepper is a good fit for soups and stews. Red pepper flakes are frequently used as a topping for pizza or pasta. Overall, sriracha is a more reliable substitute than the other options for a wide variety of dishes.
