Description
One-Pan Harissa Chickpeas
This delicious one-pan meal brings together the rich flavors of caramelized onions, harissa, and creamy coconut milk, with a hearty dose of chickpeas and greens. Inspired by the vibrant spices of North Africa, this dish is perfect for when you’re craving something warm and spicy yet incredibly easy to make. Serve it with flatbread or rice for a comforting, wholesome dinner that comes together in just 30 minutes.
2 tsp oil
1 medium onion, thinly sliced
1 tsp balsamic vinegar
1/2 tsp salt, divided
1 tbsp garlic paste or 4 minced cloves
1 tsp smoked paprika
2 tbsp harissa paste
1/2 tsp dried oregano
2 cups chopped leafy greens (e.g., Swiss chard, spinach)
15 oz can chickpeas, drained
1 cup full-fat coconut milk
Lemon juice, cilantro, black pepper for garnish
Directions:
1. Sauté onion in oil with 1/4 tsp salt until caramelized.
2. Add garlic, paprika, harissa, and oregano. Cook for 1 min.
3. Add greens, chickpeas, and coconut milk. Simmer for 10 mins.
4. Garnish with lemon juice, cilantro, and black pepper.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Kcal: 253 per serving
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Caramelize the Onions: Heat oil in a large skillet or pan over medium-low heat. Add the thinly sliced onion and 1/4 tsp salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 15-20 minutes until deeply golden and soft. Add the balsamic vinegar in the last minute to enhance sweetness.
2. Bloom the Spices: Push onions to the side. Add garlic paste, smoked paprika, harissa paste, and dried oregano to the center of the pan. Cook for 60 seconds until fragrant, then mix thoroughly with the onions.
3. Combine and Simmer: Add the chopped greens, drained chickpeas, and coconut milk. Stir well, increase heat to bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce and cook uncovered for 10 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
4. Final Seasoning: Remove from heat. Stir in a generous squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Taste and adjust salt if needed.
5. Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro, cracked black pepper, and an extra drizzle of lemon juice or harissa.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile dish pairs beautifully with several bases. For a hearty meal, serve over fluffy couscous, quinoa, or jasmine rice. To soak up the flavorful sauce, warm pita bread or naan is perfect. For a lighter option, a simple side salad with a lemony dressing complements the spices. A dollop of vegan yogurt or a sprinkle of toasted almonds adds a cool, creamy, or crunchy contrast.
How-to Summary
In under 30 minutes, create a spicy, creamy chickpea stew. Caramelize onions, then bloom harissa and spices in the same pan. Add greens, chickpeas, and coconut milk, and simmer. Finish with lemon and fresh herbs. It’s a simple, one-pan vegan dinner packed with flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different protein? Absolutely. This sauce works wonderfully with diced tofu, tempeh, or even white beans in place of chickpeas. Adjust cooking time as needed.
My harissa paste is very spicy. How can I adjust the heat? Start with 1 tablespoon of harissa and add more to taste at the end. You can also balance the heat by adding a teaspoon of maple syrup or a bit more coconut milk.
How should I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much.
Is there a substitute for coconut milk? For a lighter version, use lite coconut milk. For a nuttier flavor, cashew cream is an excellent alternative. Simply blend 1/4 cup raw cashews with 3/4 cup water until smooth.
Can I make this in advance? Yes, the flavors often deepen when made a day ahead. Prepare the dish, let it cool, and refrigerate. Reheat gently before serving, adding fresh garnishes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid rushing the onions; proper caramelization is key for a sweet, deep flavor base. Do not skip blooming the harissa and spices with the garlic, as this step unlocks their full aroma. Be careful not to use light coconut milk if you desire a rich, creamy sauce, as it can be thin and watery. Finally, do not overcook the greens; they should be wilted but still vibrant.
Conclusion
This One-Pan Harissa Chickpeas recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients can create an extraordinary meal. With its perfect balance of spicy, creamy, and savory notes, it’s a reliable, quick dinner that satisfies deeply. Its flexibility with ingredients and sides makes it a staple recipe you’ll return to again and again. Give it a try for a deliciously effortless culinary escape.