Creamy Harissa Chickpeas

What to Serve with Harissa Chickpeas recipe

Harissa chickpeas are the perfect comfort food creamy, spicy, and packed with protein! This one-pot meal is rich in fiber and nutrients, making it a wholesome dish for any day of the week. Simmered in a luscious harissa-spiced tomato and coconut milk sauce, these chickpeas are easy to prepare and full of bold flavors. Whether you’re a fan of harissa vegetable curry, butter chickpeas, or marinated chickpeas with whipped feta, this dish will become a staple in your home.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Harissa Chickpea Stew

Easy and quick A simple one-pot meal ready in under 45 minutes.
Nutrient-dense Packed with plant-based protein, fiber, and healthy fats.
Customizable Adjust spice levels, add extra veggies, or swap chickpeas for white beans.
Great for meal prep Freezer-friendly and even more delicious the next day!
Naturally gluten-free and dairy-free

Ingredients for Creamy Harissa Chickpeas

Ingredients & Substitutes

Base Ingredients

Olive oil For sautéing.
Garlic & onion Essential aromatics.
Harissa paste Adds smoky heat (use rose harissa for a unique twist).
Cherry tomatoes Fresh or canned fire-roasted tomatoes for a deep, rich flavor.
Italian seasoning Or substitute with dried oregano or thyme.
Chickpeas Canned for convenience or cooked from scratch.
Coconut milk Use full-fat for creaminess (or substitute with blended silken tofu).
Leafy greens Spinach or kale add nutrients and texture.

Seasonings & Add-Ins

Smoked paprika, cumin, and garlic powder For extra warmth and depth.
Nutritional yeast Optional, for a subtle umami flavor.
Lemon juice Adds brightness.
Sweetness Raisins, dried apricots, or pomegranate for a touch of balance.
Extra veggies Peas, zucchini, carrots, or bell peppers.

How to Make Harissa Chickpea Stew

Roast the Tomatoes (Optional) If using fresh cherry tomatoes, preheat your oven to 360°F (180°C). Slice the cherry tomatoes in half and spread them on a baking sheet. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, sprinkle with salt and Italian seasoning, and toss to coat. Roast for 25-30 minutes until soft and slightly caramelized. If using canned fire-roasted tomatoes, you can skip this step.
Sauté Aromatics Heat a large, heavy-based skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the remaining ½ tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
Add Chickpeas & Spices Stir in the roasted tomatoes (or canned fire-roasted tomatoes), harissa paste, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to coat the chickpeas evenly with the aromatic spices. Let the mixture cook for 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to bloom.
Simmer with Coconut Milk Pour in the canned coconut milk and stir well. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat. Let it cook uncovered for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency.
Stir in Greens Add the spinach or kale to the skillet. Stir to combine and cook for another 2 minutes, just until the greens wilt and incorporate into the stew.
Final Adjustments & Serve Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning as needed. For extra depth, add a squeeze of lemon juice or a pinch of nutritional yeast. Serve hot, drizzled with extra coconut milk and garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro.

What to Serve with Harissa Chickpeas?

Grains Serve over rice, quinoa, couscous, or farro.
Bread Pair with flatbread, naan, or crusty bread.
Potatoes Enjoy with roasted, mashed, or baked sweet potatoes.
Vegetables Serve alongside steamed broccoli, asparagus, or roasted cauliflower.

Storage & Reheating

Store: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Freeze: Portion into freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
Reheat: Warm on the stovetop or microwave, adding extra liquid if needed.

FAQs

How Do You Roast Chickpeas with Harissa?

To roast chickpeas, toss them with olive oil, harissa paste, and spices, then bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes until crispy.

What is Harissa Made Of?

Harissa is a spicy and aromatic chili paste commonly used in North African and Middle Eastern cuisine. It typically consists of dried chilies (such as red chilies or Aleppo peppers), garlic, olive oil, cumin, coriander, caraway seeds, and vinegar or lemon juice. Some versions also include tomatoes, smoked paprika, or rose petals for additional depth of flavor.

What Can I Eat with Harissa Chickpeas?

Harissa chickpeas are versatile and can be served in many ways. Here are some great pairings:
Over a bed of steamed rice, quinoa, or couscous
With crusty bread, naan, or pita for dipping
Stuffed into a wrap or pita with fresh veggies
As a topping for baked potatoes or roasted sweet potatoes
Served alongside grilled vegetables or roasted meats

What Does Harissa Spice Taste Like?

Harissa has a bold, smoky, slightly tangy, and spicy flavor with a deep umami taste from the garlic and roasted peppers. Depending on the brand or homemade version, it can range from mildly spicy to very hot. The combination of cumin, coriander, and caraway also gives it an earthy and aromatic profile.

What Can I Use Instead of Harissa Paste?

Substitutes include sriracha, gochujang, or a mix of tomato paste with cayenne, cumin, and smoked paprika.

Can I Make This Recipe Less Spicy?

Yes! Reduce the harissa paste, add extra coconut milk, or stir in yogurt to mellow the heat.

This creamy harissa chickpea curry is a delicious and nutritious meal that’s easy to make and perfect for meal prep. With its rich, smoky-spiced sauce and hearty chickpeas, it’s a dish that brings warmth and comfort to your table. Try it today and let me know how you customize yours! Don’t forget to pin this recipe for later!

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