There’s something incredibly comforting about a simmering pot of Chickpea, Tomato + Harissa Stew with Herby Yoghurt that transports me right back to a sun-drenched kitchen. The bold, spicy aroma of harissa mingling with the sweet fragrance of tomatoes is an invitation that no one can resist. This delightful stew not only celebrates the robust flavors of North African cuisine but also embraces the wholesome goodness of plant-based ingredients.
After a hectic day, I often find myself searching for a quick, yet satisfying meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor or nutrition — and this recipe fits the bill perfectly. Packed with protein-rich chickpeas and vibrant spices, it warms both the body and soul, leaving you feeling nourished and fulfilled. The herby yoghurt drizzled on top adds a refreshing twist, elevating this stew into something truly special.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, seeking a cozy weeknight dinner, or simply wanting to experiment with new flavors, this Chickpea, Tomato + Harissa Stew is your new go-to recipe. Dive in and let the rich, comforting flavors take you on a delightful culinary adventure!
Why you’ll love this Chickpea, Tomato + Harissa Stew
Comforting warmth: This stew is a hug in a bowl, bringing cozy vibes to any meal.
Simply flavorful: The harissa adds a delightful kick while the tomatoes balance everything with their sweetness.
Nutritious delight: Packed with protein-rich chickpeas, it’s a wholesome option for plant lovers.
Quick to make: In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious, hearty dish ready to satisfy your cravings!
Versatile serving: Top with herby yoghurt for an extra layer of flavor — or enjoy it solo!
Everyone at the table will be asking for seconds, making it an instant crowd-pleaser.
Chickpea, Tomato + Harissa Stew Ingredients
For the Stew
• Chickpeas – Perfect plant-based protein; use canned for convenience or dried for more flavor.
• Tomatoes – Fresh or canned, they provide a sweet base that balances the spice of harissa.
• Harissa Paste – Adds a bold, spicy kick; adjust the amount according to your heat preference.
• Onion – Sauté until translucent for a sweet, aromatic base; shallots can be a flavorful alternative.
• Garlic – Fresh minced garlic elevates the flavor; garlic powder is a quick option if pressed for time.
• Vegetable Broth – Enriches the stew with depth; can be substituted with water for a lighter flavor.
• Olive Oil – Provides richness and helps sauté the onions; avocado oil works too for a different taste.
For the Herby Yoghurt
• Greek Yoghurt – A creamy base that complements the stew; dairy-free alternatives can also be delicious.
• Fresh Herbs – Chopped parsley or cilantro adds freshness; basil or mint can be interesting options too.
• Lemon Juice – Brightens the dish and enhances the herbs’ flavors; lime juice can work well as a substitute.
Feel free to enjoy this Chickpea, Tomato + Harissa Stew with Herby Yoghurt as a cozy meal that warms your heart and satisfies your palate!
How to Make Chickpea, Tomato + Harissa Stew
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Sauté the onions: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions, cooking until they turn translucent and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes. This creates a flavorful base for your stew.
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Add garlic: Stir in minced garlic and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until it becomes aromatic. Fresh garlic brings an amazing depth to the stew, so don’t skip this step!
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Incorporate tomatoes and chickpeas: Add your chosen tomatoes (canned or fresh) along with chickpeas. Stir well to mix everything and cook for 5 minutes. The tomatoes should start to soften and release their juices.
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Stir in harissa: Next, mix in the harissa paste, adjusting the amount based on your preferred spice level. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Pour in vegetable broth: Slowly pour in the vegetable broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer for an additional 10 minutes, letting it thicken and become hearty!
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Prepare herby yoghurt: While the stew is simmering, mix Greek yoghurt, chopped fresh herbs, and lemon juice in a small bowl. This herby topping adds a deliciously cooling contrast to the spicy stew.
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Serve and enjoy: Ladle the stew into bowls, topping with a generous dollop of herby yoghurt. Pair it with crusty bread or over a bed of grains for a complete meal that’ll satisfy everyone!
Optional: Garnish with extra herbs for added freshness and a pop of color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Helpful Tricks for Chickpea, Tomato + Harissa Stew
• Rinse Chickpeas: Rinse canned chickpeas thoroughly before adding them to the pot to remove excess sodium and enhance flavor.
• Adjust Spice Level: Start with a small amount of harissa paste and gradually increase to match your heat preference, as it can be quite potent!
• Simmer for Flavor: Allow the stew to simmer for the full time to meld the flavors beautifully; rushing this step can lead to a less rich flavor profile.
• Customize Herbs: Feel free to experiment with fresh herbs in the herby yoghurt — consider using dill or tarragon for a unique twist that complements the stew.
• Last-Minute Additions: Sneak in extra vegetables like spinach or kale toward the end of cooking for added nutrition and freshness without a lot of fuss.
Enjoy making this Chickpea, Tomato + Harissa Stew and savor the warmth it brings to your kitchen!
Storage Tips for Chickpea, Tomato + Harissa Stew
Fridge: Store leftover stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: Freeze the stew in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before sealing to avoid freezer burn.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat the frozen stew overnight in the fridge and warm it gently on the stovetop. Add a splash of vegetable broth if needed to loosen the consistency.
Herby Yoghurt Storage: Keep the herby yoghurt separate in the fridge for up to 5 days to preserve its freshness and vibrant flavor when serving with the Chickpea, Tomato + Harissa Stew.
Chickpea, Tomato + Harissa Stew Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative with this stew; there are plenty of delicious ways to switch things up!
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Spicy Kick: Increase harissa paste for a bolder flavor. Kick up the heat and let it warm your soul.
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Creamier Base: Swap Greek yoghurt for coconut yoghurt for a vegan twist, adding tropical richness to this comforting dish.
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Veggie Boost: Toss in chopped zucchini or bell peppers during the sauté for added crunch and nutrition. They complement the flavors beautifully!
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Herb Alternatives: Use dill or tarragon in the herby yoghurt for a unique fresh twist, elevating every bite with unexpected flavor profiles.
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Nutty Infusion: Stir in a tablespoon of tahini to the stew for a creamy, nutty experience that harmonizes wonderfully with the spices.
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Citrus Zest: Brighten the stew by adding orange or lime zest. This subtle addition will enhance the overall flavor with a refreshing note.
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Protein Power: Incorporate cooked lentils alongside the chickpeas for extra protein and texture, making it even heartier and satisfying.
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Global Fusion: Add a splash of soy sauce or tamari for an umami boost, introducing a delightful depth that surprises the palate.
Let your taste buds guide you, and enjoy crafting a stew that’s uniquely yours!
Make Ahead Options
These Chickpea, Tomato + Harissa Stew ingredients are perfect for meal prep, saving you valuable time during the week! You can chop the onions, garlic, and any herbs up to 24 hours in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, cook the chickpeas (if using dried) and prepare the harissa sauce beforehand. When you’re ready to enjoy the stew, simply sauté the aromatics, stir in the prepped ingredients, and simmer for about 10 minutes to bring everything back together. This allows you to serve a delicious, filling meal with minimal effort, retaining all the comforting flavors just like when freshly made.
What to Serve with Chickpea, Tomato + Harissa Stew?
Enjoy the comforting warmth of this hearty stew with delightful sides that elevate your dining experience.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping, a warm crusty loaf complements the stew’s bold flavors and creamy herby yoghurt beautifully.
- Couscous or Quinoa: Fluffy grains provide a satisfying base that soaks up the rich broth, making every bite a delicious delight.
- Simple Green Salad: A light, fresh salad adds a crisp contrast to the stew, balancing its warmth with refreshing crunch and color.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted to perfection make a flavorful pairing that enhances the stew with extra texture and nutrition.
- Hummus and Veggie Platter: Serve with vibrant raw vegetables and creamy hummus for a light starter that leads gracefully into the main dish.
- Spiced Rice: Aromatic rice cooked with mild spices complements the stew while elevating the overall flavor profile and heartiness.
- Sparkling Water with Lemon: A refreshing drink that cleanses the palate beautifully, between savory bites of stew and creamy yoghurt.
- Dark Chocolate Dessert: For a sweet finish, rich dark chocolate pairs splendidly with the savory stew, creating a balance of flavors that satisfies.
Each pairing adds a unique touch, creating a well-rounded meal that you and your loved ones will cherish!
Chickpea, Tomato + Harissa Stew Recipe FAQs
What type of chickpeas should I use?
You can use canned or dried chickpeas, depending on your preference. Canned chickpeas are quick and convenient; simply rinse them thoroughly before adding them to the pot. If you prefer dried chickpeas, soak them overnight and cook until tender before starting the recipe. This way, they’ll have a more intense flavor and firmer texture!
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover Chickpea, Tomato + Harissa Stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will keep the stew fresh while maintaining its robust flavors. If you want to store it for longer, opt for freezing.
Can I freeze the stew?
Absolutely! To freeze the Chickpea, Tomato + Harissa Stew, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the stew in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop. You may need to add a splash of vegetable broth to restore its desired consistency.
What if my stew is too spicy?
If your stew turns out too spicy, don’t worry! You can neutralize the heat by adding more vegetable broth or canned tomatoes. Allow it to simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes to help meld the flavors. Alternatively, serving it with a generous dollop of the herby yoghurt will also help to tone down the heat while adding creaminess.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this Chickpea, Tomato + Harissa Stew is naturally gluten-free! Just ensure that any vegetable broth you use is gluten-free, and you’re all set for a delicious meal that everyone can enjoy.
Is this stew suitable for my vegan friend?
Absolutely! As long as you use dairy-free alternatives in the herby yoghurt, this Chickpea, Tomato + Harissa Stew is entirely plant-based and vegan-friendly. You can easily substitute traditional Greek yoghurt with a plant-based yogurt to keep it suitable for your vegan friends while still enjoying the same creamy texture.
Spicy Chickpea, Tomato + Harissa Stew with Fresh Herby Yoghurt
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions, cooking until they turn translucent and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until it becomes aromatic.
- Add your chosen tomatoes along with chickpeas. Stir well to mix everything and cook for 5 minutes.
- Mix in the harissa paste, adjusting the amount based on your preferred spice level. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Slowly pour in the vegetable broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil and then reduce the heat to low.
- Simmer for an additional 10 minutes, letting it thicken and become hearty.
- While the stew is simmering, mix Greek yoghurt, chopped fresh herbs, and lemon juice in a small bowl.
- Ladle the stew into bowls, topping with a generous dollop of herby yoghurt.