Nabeul:The 12th edition of the Harissa Festival has opened in the Tunisian city of Nabeul, celebrating the traditional cultivation of chili peppers and the production of harissa. The festival offers visitors the opportunity to explore traditional preparation methods, sample local dishes, and discover a variety of chili pepper products, spices, and pottery used in making harissa.

According to Saudi Press Agency, Nabeul's harissa is available in several varieties, including traditional recipes known locally as arabi, mdashdasha, and mfawra. In 2022, UNESCO recognized the knowledge, skills, and culinary practices associated with Tunisian harissa by adding them to its Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

The festival not only highlights the economic significance of harissa but also emphasizes the vital role of women farmers and artisans in preserving traditional preparation methods and developing local specialties. Tunisia produces approximately 400,000 tons of chili peppers each year.

This year's festival activities feature Italian pizza makers who are preparing innovative recipes with harissa, alongside scientific discussions on native Nabeul chili pepper seeds. The events aim to preserve culinary traditions while promoting new uses for the popular condiment.