Harissa Shrimp with Chermoula & Preserved Lemon

Harissa Shrimp with Chermoula & Preserved Lemon

1 pound shrimp (about 20)
Skewers

For the harissa
1/4 cup cumin seeds
1/4 cup coriander seeds
4 small dried chile peppers
2 garlic cloves, peeled and finely chopped
Salt
2 to 3 tablespoons olive oil

In a heavy, dry skillet over medium heat, stir seeds until fragrant and a shade or two darker, 3 to 5 minutes.

Pound seeds in a mortar to a rough powder. Add chile peppers and pound until flaky. Stir in garlic and salt to taste. Gradually add olive oil until a runny paste is formed. Store in an airtight container; keep refrigerated until ready to use.

For the chermoula
1 bunch mint leaves
1 bunch fresh cilantro
1 small clove garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
1 teaspoon honey
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
1 jalapeño, seeded, deveined and minced
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon red-wine vinegar
2 lemons juiced
3/4 teaspoon coarse salt
1 preserved lemon, rind only

Place all ingredients in the jar of a blender along with 1/3 cup water. Blend until smooth.

Marinate shrimp in the harissa for up to 5 hours in advance.

Heat grill pan to medium high. Brush grates with oil. Place 2 shrimp onto each skewer. Grill shrimp for about  three minutes on each side until opaque. Serve with the chermoula dipping sauce.

Image / Aubrie Pick for San Francisco Magazine

Spicy Carrot Spread

I created this spicy carrot spread for my menu collaboration with Kitchit Tonight. It is reminiscent of hummus – and is super easy to make and a great starter for any party.

Spicy Carrot Spread
6 large carrots, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
2 tablespoons Harissa
½ teaspoon ground cumin
3 tablespoons toasted pine nuts
3 tablespoon Tahini
2 teaspoons lemon juice
Salt and pepper

Set a steamer basket in a saucepan with 2 inches simmering water. Add carrots. Cover and steam until tender, about 12 minutes.
Heat oil in pan and saute until lightly browned.
Transfer carrots, onions, Harissa, cumin, pine nuts, tahini, and lemon juice to a food processor. Season with salt and pepper. Process until smooth, about 1 minute, adding up to 2 tablespoons water if necessary.

Serve with toasted pita bread.