Moroccan Harissa

There is an old Moroccan proverb that says, "Traveling - it gives you home in thousand strange places, then leaves you a stranger in your own land."

But you're never a stranger in this vibrant country.  The flavorful seasonings, the zest for life and the nightlife all make this wildly unexpected place a traveler's delight.

I’ve yet to make it to Morocco but, upon moving to Los Angeles I was introduced to Moroccan cuisine.  Some newly minted friends were putting together a “send off” dinner for one of our friends who was going to study abroad.  They settled on a Moroccan restaurant in Hollywood.

That night was one of the most enjoyable evenings with friends and food.  The blending of flavors and spices in the Harissa along with fun and laughter was so enjoyable that I knew I would try to develop a flavor that incorporated the memories from this night.