Harissa chickpeas is a delightful dish that brings together the warmth of spices and the creaminess of coconut milk. This quick one-pan meal is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests with minimal effort. With caramelized onions, vibrant greens, and protein-packed chickpeas, this dish offers a wonderful balance of flavors and textures. Whether served over rice, with flatbread, or simply on its own, harissa chickpeas are versatile enough to fit any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy days.
- Flavor-Packed: The combination of harissa paste, garlic, and smoked paprika delivers a bold and satisfying taste.
- Nutritious: Packed with chickpeas and greens, this meal is rich in protein and fiber, keeping you full and energized.
- One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup means more time enjoying your delicious creation.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it with rice, flatbread, or as a hearty topping for toast.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools to make preparing harissa chickpeas seamless.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring spoons
- Cutting board
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: Ideal for sautéing ingredients evenly while creating a beautiful caramelization.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for mixing ingredients without scratching your cookware.
- Measuring spoons: Ensures precise amounts of spices and liquids for consistent flavor every time.
Ingredients
Harissa chickpeas is a super quick, one pan meal with lots of caramelized onions, greens, and chickpeas in a creamy, spicy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 teaspoons oil
– 1 medium onion (thinly sliced, or about 1 1/2 cups)
– 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt (or more to taste, divided)
– 1 tablespoon garlic paste (or 4 cloves of garlic, minced)
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 2 tablespoons harissa paste (see note for less spice)
– 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
– 2 cups of chopped leafy greens of choice
– 15 ounce can of chickpeas (drained or 1 1/2 cups cooked chickpeas or other white beans)
– 1 cup full fat coconut milk or coconut cream (Use the entire can if you like it more saucy.)
– lemon juice, cilantro, and black pepper, for garnish
How to Make Harissa Chickpeas
Step 1: Sauté the Onions
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the oil; once it’s hot, add the onion and sprinkle in 1/4 teaspoon salt.
- Mix well to coat the onions. Continue to cook while stirring occasionally; add water if needed to prevent sticking.
- Cook until translucent and golden on edges (about 7 to 9 minutes).
- Add balsamic vinegar; mix well and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes.
Step 2: Add Spices and Greens
- Stir in garlic paste, smoked paprika, harissa paste, and oregano; mix well.
- Cook for about one minute until fragrant.
- Add chopped greens along with remaining salt and drained chickpeas; stir thoroughly.
- Pour in coconut milk; mix until everything is combined.
- Partially cover the pan; simmer for about 8 to 10 minutes.
Step 3: Final Touches
- Taste the mixture; adjust seasoning as needed by adding more salt or harissa for heat.
- If desired thickness isn’t achieved yet, consider adding non-dairy yogurt or sour cream.
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice into the dish before serving.
- Allow to simmer an additional minute if you want a thicker glaze over the chickpeas.
- Garnish with cilantro or parsley along with black pepper before serving.
Enjoy your flavorful harissa chickpeas!
How to Serve Harissa Chickpeas
Harissa chickpeas are not only delicious but also versatile. They can be enjoyed in various ways, making them a perfect addition to any meal. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.
With Flatbread
- Soft flatbreads complement the creamy sauce perfectly. Use them to scoop up the chickpeas for a delightful bite.
Over Rice
- Serve harissa chickpeas over fluffy rice for a hearty meal. The rice absorbs the spices and adds a nice texture.
In Tacos
- Use tortillas to make spicy chickpea tacos. Top with fresh veggies and a drizzle of yogurt for added creaminess.
With Sourdough Toast
- Enjoy harissa chickpeas on toasted sourdough bread. The crunchy toast pairs well with the creamy, spicy mixture.
As a Salad Topping
- Add harissa chickpeas as a topping for fresh salads. Their bold flavor enhances the greens and adds protein.
In Grain Bowls
- Combine with quinoa or couscous for a filling grain bowl. Mix in some roasted vegetables for extra nutrients.
How to Perfect Harissa Chickpeas
Perfecting harissa chickpeas is all about balancing flavors and textures. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.
Use fresh ingredients: Fresh onions, garlic, and greens enhance the dish’s overall flavor.
Adjust spice levels: If you prefer less heat, use less harissa paste or choose a milder variety.
Add acidity: A squeeze of lemon juice at the end brightens up the dish and cuts through the creaminess.
Experiment with greens: Try different leafy greens like spinach or kale for varied tastes and textures.
Best Side Dishes for Harissa Chickpeas
Pairing side dishes with harissa chickpeas can create a balanced meal that satisfies your palate. Here are some great options to consider:
Couscous Salad
Fluffy couscous mixed with diced vegetables and herbs makes a refreshing companion.Roasted Vegetables
A medley of seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized adds sweetness and depth.Greek Yogurt Dip
Creamy yogurt seasoned with herbs offers a cooling contrast to the spiciness of the dish.Quinoa Pilaf
Nutty quinoa cooked with spices complements the flavors of the chickpeas beautifully.Grilled Eggplant
Smoky grilled eggplant slices bring an earthy flavor that pairs well with spicy dishes.Simple Green Salad
A light salad with mixed greens dressed in lemon vinaigrette balances out the richness of harissa chickpeas.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making harissa chickpeas, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture.
- Skipping the caramelization: Not cooking the onions until they’re caramelized can lead to a lack of depth in flavor. Take your time and let them brown properly.
- Overlooking seasoning: Failing to taste and adjust the seasoning at the end means missing out on balancing the flavors. Always check for salt and acidity before serving.
- Ignoring ingredient quality: Using low-quality harissa or coconut milk can compromise the dish. Choose good, flavorful brands for the best results.
- Rushing the cooking time: Cooking the chickpeas or greens for too short a time can leave them undercooked. Ensure everything is well-simmered for a harmonious blend of flavors.
- Neglecting garnishes: Skipping fresh herbs or lemon juice can dull the overall taste. Garnishing adds freshness and enhances the dish’s appeal.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Allow the dish to cool before sealing it to prevent condensation.
Freezing Harissa Chickpeas
- Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
- Portion into individual servings for easier reheating later.
Reheating Harissa Chickpeas
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 1 minute, stirring in between until hot.
- Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat, adding a splash of water or coconut milk if needed to loosen.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about harissa chickpeas that might help you enjoy this recipe even more.
What are harissa chickpeas?
Harissa chickpeas are a flavorful dish made with chickpeas cooked in a spicy harissa sauce, often featuring caramelized onions and greens.
Can I customize my harissa chickpeas?
Absolutely! You can add different vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, or switch up the greens based on what you have available.
What can I serve with harissa chickpeas?
These chickpeas pair wonderfully with rice, couscous, flatbread, or even as a topping for salads.
How spicy are harissa chickpeas?
The spice level depends on the amount of harissa paste you use. For less heat, start with a smaller amount and adjust according to your preference.
Are harissa chickpeas vegan?
Yes! This recipe is entirely plant-based, making it suitable for vegans and vegetarians alike.
Final Thoughts
Harissa chickpeas are not only quick and easy but also packed with flavor. This versatile dish allows for plenty of customization based on your preferences and available ingredients. Whether served over rice or as a standalone meal, it’s sure to satisfy your cravings. Give it a try today!
Harissa Chickpeas
Harissa chickpeas are a vibrant, one-pan dish that combines the rich flavors of spicy harissa paste with the creaminess of coconut milk. This quick and satisfying meal is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. With caramelized onions, fresh greens, and protein-packed chickpeas, every bite delivers a delightful explosion of flavor and texture. Serve it over fluffy rice, alongside warm flatbread, or simply on its own for a nutritious vegetarian option.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients
- 2 teaspoons oil
- 1 medium onion (thinly sliced)
- 1 tablespoon garlic paste (or 4 cloves minced)
- 2 tablespoons harissa paste
- 2 cups chopped leafy greens
- 15 ounces canned chickpeas (drained)
- 1 cup full-fat coconut milk
- Lemon juice, cilantro, and black pepper for garnish
Instructions
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced onion and a pinch of salt. Sauté until translucent and golden (about 7-9 minutes).
- Stir in garlic paste, harissa paste, smoked paprika, and oregano. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add chopped greens and drained chickpeas, stirring to combine. Pour in coconut milk and simmer partially covered for 8-10 minutes.
- Adjust seasoning with lemon juice, salt, or additional harissa as preferred before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
