This is cookbook author Caroline Chambers go-to flavor booster.

Its my moment to teach a man to fish instead of handing a man a fish, she says.

Harissa is one such condiment.

Cajun Shrimp Casserole in white baking dish - Southern Living

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What Is Harissa?

It just wakes the whole thing up and brings it from dull, heavy stew territory to really bright.

It adds this acidity thats so good.

What To Cook When You Don’t Feel Like Cooking Cookbook by Caroline Chambers

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But there are nearly endless ways to use it, she notes.

Its a flavor booster thats doing all the work for you, says Chambers.

Add it to a stir fry, add it to yourbolognesesauce to bring a little heat.

Caroline Chambers Really Good Beef Stew

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It delivers so, so much flavor with absolutely no effort.

It might be just what your chicken tetrazzini’s been missing.

Smoky Mountain Brunswick Stew

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