Description
A flavorful and hearty Chickpea Tomato and Harissa Stew, perfectly balanced with warm spices and a kick of harissa heat, served with a refreshing herby Greek yogurt topping. This Middle Eastern-inspired vegetarian stew is easy to make on the stovetop and is ideal for a comforting weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Stew Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1–2 tablespoons harissa paste, adjust to taste
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 1/2 cups vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Herby Yogurt Topping
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint
Instructions
- Sauté the Onion: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for 5–6 minutes until soft and translucent, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
- Add Aromatics and Spices: Stir in the minced garlic, tomato paste, harissa paste, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and ground cinnamon. Cook for 1–2 minutes until the mixture is fragrant, allowing the spices to bloom.
- Simmer the Stew: Add the diced tomatoes, drained chickpeas, and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce the heat and cook uncovered for 15–20 minutes. Stir occasionally until the stew thickens slightly and the flavors meld.
- Season to Taste: Add salt and pepper to taste, adjusting seasoning as needed.
- Prepare the Herby Yogurt: While the stew simmers, combine Greek yogurt with lemon juice, chopped parsley, and chopped mint in a small bowl. Mix well to create a fresh, tangy topping.
- Serve: Ladle the hot stew into bowls and top each serving with a generous dollop of the herby yogurt for added creaminess and flavor contrast.
Notes
- This stew pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, rice, or couscous for a fuller meal.
- For a vegan option, substitute the Greek yogurt with your choice of plant-based yogurt.
- Harissa paste varies in spiciness; start with less and add more to suit your heat preference.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
