Pin it
This vibrant North African-inspired stew combines the fiery warmth of harissa paste with juicy blistered tomatoes and tender chickpeas for a quick yet deeply satisfying meal. Ready in under 25 minutes, it's perfect for busy weeknights when you need something warming and flavorful without spending hours in the kitchen. I love this recipe for its simplicity and bold flavors that taste like they've been developing for hours.
Last week, I made this for a last-minute dinner with friends, and everyone was amazed at how quickly such a flavorful dish came together. The combination of spicy harissa against the cooling herby yogurt creates a perfect temperature and flavor contrast.
Essential Ingredients and Selection Tips
- Queen Chickpeas - These giant, tender chickpeas with their flavorful bean stock form the heart of the dish
- Harissa Paste - Look for quality brands; heat levels vary, so adjust quantity to your preference
- Cherry Tomatoes - Their natural sweetness balances the spice when blistered
- Greek Yogurt - Full-fat provides the best cooling effect against the heat
- Fresh Dill - Essential for the bright, herbal notes in the yogurt topping
The magic happens when the blistered tomatoes release their juices to mingle with the chickpea stock and harissa, creating a sauce that's simultaneously rich, tangy, and spicy.
Detailed Cooking Instructions
- Step 1: Blister the Tomatoes
- Heat olive oil in a non-stick pan over high heat. Add cherry tomatoes and cook 5-6 minutes until soft, blistered and slightly charred. This caramelization adds depth to the final dish.
- Step 2: Add Aromatics
- Lower the heat and add sliced garlic, cooking 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. The gentle cooking releases the garlic flavor without bitterness.
- Step 3: Create the Stew Base
- Add chickpeas with their bean stock, bringing to a simmer until liquid reduces by half. This concentrates the flavors and creates the perfect consistency.
- Step 4: Incorporate Harissa
- Remove from heat before stirring in harissa paste. Return to low heat and simmer 2-3 minutes to allow flavors to meld without dulling the harissa's complexity.
- Step 5: Prepare Herby Yogurt
- While the stew simmers, combine grated garlic, lemon zest, chopped dill, capers, and yogurt in a bowl. The bright, tangy yogurt balances the spicy stew perfectly.
- Step 6: Taste and Adjust
- The chickpeas and their stock contain salt, so taste the stew before adding any additional seasoning.
- Step 7: Serve Immediately
- Spoon stew into warm bowls, top with a generous dollop of herby yogurt, and serve with warm flatbreads or couscous for soaking up the flavorful sauce.
Pin it
Weeknight Wonder
This stew has rescued countless hectic evenings in my home. After long workdays when cooking feels overwhelming, I can still create this nourishing meal with minimal effort. The kitchen fills with aromatic spices as tomatoes sizzle and pop in the pan, transforming my mood along with simple ingredients. Even when energy is low, the promise of this vibrant meal motivates me to cook rather than order takeout.
Cultural Heritage
Harissa's North African roots connect this dish to a rich culinary tradition. Originating in Tunisia, this fiery paste traditionally combines dried chilies, garlic, olive oil, and spices like cumin and coriander. Each region has its variation, making harissa a window into North African and Middle Eastern food culture. When preparing this stew, I'm participating in a cooking tradition that spans generations and geography, bringing global flavors to my dinner table.
Pin it
Sustainable Satisfaction
Beyond its flavor profile, this plant-forward dish offers significant environmental benefits. Chickpeas require far less water and produce fewer greenhouse gases than animal proteins, making this meal an eco-friendly choice without sacrificing satisfaction. The minimal ingredient list also reduces food waste, as fresh herbs and unused harissa can flavor other dishes throughout the week. It's a recipe that nourishes both body and planet.
Chef's Essential Tips
- For ultra-clear jelly, never press on the berries when straining
- Chill jars before filling to prevent temperature shock
- Use faceted jars to showcase the beautiful color
- Test setting by placing a small amount on a frozen plate
- Let jelly reach room temperature before serving for optimal flavor
This simple yet flavorful stew has become one of my weeknight staples. The combination of spicy harissa and cooling yogurt creates a perfect balance that keeps me coming back to this recipe again and again.
Pin it
Final Tips
- Double the recipe for excellent leftovers - the flavors develop beautifully overnight
- For a complete meal, serve over quinoa or with a simple green salad
- Adjust harissa amount based on your heat preference and the brand you're using
- A sprinkle of toasted pine nuts adds wonderful texture contrast
- For meat-eaters, adding sliced grilled chicken or sausage works beautifully
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What is harissa paste?
- North African chili paste with roasted peppers and spices.
- → Can I make this vegan?
- Yes, use dairy-free yogurt alternative for the sauce.
- → How spicy is this dish?
- Moderately spicy, adjust harissa amount to taste.
- → Can I use regular chickpeas?
- Yes, but Queen Chickpeas are recommended for texture.
- → What can I serve with it?
- Flatbreads, couscous, or rice work well.