Name: Tunisian Carrot Spread
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Tunisian
Ingredients: 1 lb carrots, peeled and sliced; 3 tbsp olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 small onion, chopped; 1 tbsp tomato paste; 1 tbsp harissa paste (adjust to taste); 1 tsp ground cumin; 1/2 tsp ground caraway seeds; 1/2 tsp smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Juice of 1/2 lemon; Optional: 1 dried chili pepper (for garnish)

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A creamy, smoky North African dip made with slow-cooked carrots, garlic, chili, and warm spices — this Tunisian Carrot Spread is rich in flavor and silky in texture. It’s the perfect addition to a mezze platter, a bold sandwich spread, or a unique dip for flatbreads and crackers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Tunisian Carrot Spread is a vibrant, plant-based dish that turns humble carrots into a spicy, fragrant dip packed with depth and warmth. The combination of harissa, cumin, caraway, and smoked paprika gives it a distinctive North African character. It’s naturally vegan, gluten-free, easy to make, and perfect for make-ahead meals or snacking throughout the week.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

carrots, peeled and sliced
olive oil
garlic, minced
small onion, chopped
tomato paste
harissa paste (adjust to taste)
ground cumin
ground caraway seeds
smoked paprika
salt and black pepper
lemon juice
dried chili pepper (optional, for garnish)

Directions

In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the minced garlic, tomato paste, harissa, cumin, caraway, and paprika. Cook for 2 minutes to release the aromas and toast the spices.
Add the sliced carrots and just enough water to cover them. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 25–30 minutes, or until the carrots are soft.
Drain off any excess liquid and transfer the mixture to a food processor.
Add lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust consistency with a spoonful of olive oil or water if needed.
Spoon the spread into a serving bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and garnish with a whole dried chili, if using.
Serve warm or chilled with pita, crackers, or use as a spread for sandwiches and wraps.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Calories per serving: 160 kcal

Variations

Add Tahini: Blend in a tablespoon of tahini for a richer, slightly nutty variation.
Chunkier Texture: Pulse briefly in the processor for a more rustic consistency.
Sweet-Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of honey for a sweet-savory balance.
Roasted Carrots: Roast the carrots instead of boiling for a deeper caramelized flavor.
Cooling Contrast: Serve with a dollop of dairy-free yogurt or labneh on the side.

Storage/Reheating

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freeze in small portions for up to 2 months — thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Enjoy cold or warm slightly before serving, depending on preference.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked or frozen carrots?

Yes, though fresh carrots will give the best texture and flavor. If using pre-cooked, reduce the cooking time accordingly.

Is harissa necessary?

It adds the signature Tunisian heat, but you can use chili flakes or a mild chili paste as a substitute.

Can I make this oil-free?

You can sauté the onions and spices in a splash of water or broth, but olive oil enhances richness and mouthfeel.

What type of harissa works best?

Use a traditional North African harissa paste — adjust quantity based on its heat level.

Can I make this spread ahead of time?

Yes, it actually tastes better after a few hours as the flavors meld together.

Is this served hot or cold?

It can be served either way — warm as a dip or cold as a spread.

What can I pair this with?

Pair with warm flatbreads, pita chips, sliced baguette, or use as a spread in sandwiches and wraps.

How spicy is this dish?

Moderate — the level of heat depends on the harissa. Adjust to your spice preference.

Can I use baby carrots?

Yes, just slice them before cooking to ensure even softness.

Is this suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely — it keeps well in the fridge and makes a flavorful, ready-to-use condiment or snack.

Conclusion

Tunisian Carrot Spread is a bold, vibrant dish that elevates simple ingredients with rich spices and smoky undertones. Whether served as part of a mezze platter, spread on toast, or spooned into wraps, it’s a versatile, nutritious, and flavorful recipe that brings North African flair to your table. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, this spread is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Tunisian Carrot Spread

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A creamy, smoky North African dip made with slow-cooked carrots, garlic, chili, and warm spices — blended to perfection and ideal for scooping with flatbread or spreading on toast.

Author: Asma
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: Appetizer
Method: Simmering & Blending
Cuisine: Tunisian
Diet: Vegan

Instructions

In a large saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Stir in garlic, tomato paste, harissa, cumin, caraway, and paprika. Cook for 2 minutes to bloom the spices.
Add sliced carrots and enough water to just cover them. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until carrots are soft, about 25–30 minutes.
Drain excess liquid and transfer the mixture to a food processor. Add lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning as needed.
Spoon into a bowl and drizzle with olive oil. Garnish with a whole dried chili if desired.
Serve warm or chilled with warm pita, crackers, or as a sandwich spread.