Chili Oil Zeit Har, a condiments dish from Sfax115

Condiments

Chili Oil Zeit Har

Fiery North African chili oil made of coarse dried red chili flakes, garlic, and cumin seeds infused in warm extra virgin olive oil.

20 minutesYield · 1 cup/240 mlRegion · Sfax

Ingredients

What you’ll need

  • 1/2 cup coarse dried red chili flakes (Harissa powder)
  • 3 cloves garlic (sliced)
  • 1 tsp cumin seeds
  • 1.5 cups extra virgin olive oil

Method

How it comes together

  1. 1

    Combine dried chili flakes, sliced garlic, cumin seeds, and olive oil in a heavy saucepan.

  2. 2

    Heat gently over low heat until oil reaches 180°F (82°C). Cook at this low temperature for 15 minutes (garlic should bubble gently but not brown).

  3. 3

    Remove from heat and let steep for 1 hour.

  4. 4

    Strain oil through a fine-mesh sieve into clean glass jars, or leave the chili flakes in for a hotter, rustic oil. Store in a dark cupboard.

Safety note

The requested name is treated as descriptive rather than canonical. Keeping all inclusions fully dried reduces—but does not eliminate—spoilage risk.

Chef’s note

Infrared thermometer is highly recommended; overheating olive oil will burn the chilies and turn the oil bitter.

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