Chickpea, Tomato, and Harissa Stew with Herby Yogurt Recipe
If you’re craving cozy comfort food with a punch of bold flavor, look no further than Chickpea, Tomato, and Harissa Stew with Herby Yogurt. This Middle Eastern-inspired stew is brimming with tender chickpeas, sweet bell pepper, and smoky spices simmered in a luscious tomato base, then finished with a swirl of creamy, zesty yogurt flecked with fresh herbs. It’s hearty, vibrant, and comes together in under an hour — the kind of meal that feels like a hug in a bowl, perfect for sharing with friends or savoring solo on a chilly night.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe is that every ingredient plays a starring role, each adding a unique note to the symphony of flavors and textures. From pantry staples to pops of fresh herbs, these components work together to create the signature taste and vibrant color of Chickpea, Tomato, and Harissa Stew with Herby Yogurt.
- Olive oil: Essential for sautéing and adding a rich, fruity base to the stew.
- Onion: Brings sweetness and depth, forming the aromatic foundation.
- Garlic: Infuses the dish with irresistible, savory warmth.
- Red bell pepper: Adds color, crunch, and a subtle sweetness that balances the spice.
- Harissa paste: The secret weapon for smoky heat and North African flair — adjust to taste!
- Ground cumin: Earthy and aromatic, it pairs beautifully with the chickpeas.
- Smoked paprika: Lends a deep, sultry smokiness you’ll crave in every bite.
- Ground coriander: Adds a gentle citrusy note that brightens the stew.
- Canned chickpeas: Protein-packed, creamy, and ready to soak up all those bold flavors.
- Crushed tomatoes: The juicy, tangy backbone of the stew — go for quality here.
- Vegetable broth: Brings everything together with extra savory depth.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for perfect seasoning; taste as you go!
- Red pepper flakes (optional): For those who love an extra kick of heat.
- Plain Greek yogurt: The creamy, tangy base for your herby topping.
- Fresh cilantro: Chopped for a burst of fresh, citrusy flavor in the yogurt.
- Fresh parsley: Adds brightness and color to the herby yogurt.
- Lemon juice: A squeeze wakes up all the flavors in the yogurt.
- Lemon zest: Intensifies the citrus aroma and makes the yogurt irresistible.
How to Make Chickpea, Tomato, and Harissa Stew with Herby Yogurt
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s softened and just starting to turn golden. This is your chance to build flavor right from the start — don’t rush it!
Step 2: Add Garlic and Bell Pepper
Next, toss in the minced garlic and red bell pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the garlic is fragrant and the pepper is just tender. This step creates a sweet, savory base that sets the stage for the stew’s layers of flavor.
Step 3: Stir in Spices and Harissa
Clear a little space in the pot and add the harissa paste, cumin, smoked paprika, and ground coriander. Stir constantly for about a minute, letting the spices bloom and the harissa release its smoky, spicy aroma. This is where the magic of Chickpea, Tomato, and Harissa Stew with Herby Yogurt really comes alive!
Step 4: Add Chickpeas, Tomatoes, and Broth
Pour in the drained chickpeas, crushed tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Give everything a good stir, scraping up any flavorful bits from the bottom. Season generously with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like things extra spicy. Let the mixture come to a gentle simmer.
Step 5: Simmer and Thicken
Reduce the heat to low and simmer the stew uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes. Stir occasionally and, if you want a creamier texture, mash a few chickpeas with the back of your spoon as it cooks. You’re looking for a thick, hearty consistency with all the flavors mingling beautifully.
Step 6: Make the Herby Yogurt
While the stew simmers, prepare the herby yogurt. In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt with chopped cilantro, parsley, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir well, then taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. This cool, zesty topping will be the crowning glory of your Chickpea, Tomato, and Harissa Stew with Herby Yogurt.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the hot stew into bowls and top generously with a dollop of herby yogurt. Sprinkle with extra herbs if you’re feeling fancy, and dive in while it’s steaming and fragrant!
How to Serve Chickpea, Tomato, and Harissa Stew with Herby Yogurt
Garnishes
Finish each bowl with an extra scatter of fresh cilantro or parsley, a drizzle of olive oil, or even a few toasted seeds for crunch. The herby yogurt itself is a showstopper, but a sprinkle of lemon zest or some chili flakes can make your Chickpea, Tomato, and Harissa Stew with Herby Yogurt look and taste even more vibrant.
Side Dishes
This stew is hearty enough to stand alone, but it absolutely shines alongside warm, crusty bread, fluffy couscous, or a scoop of steamed rice. These sides help soak up every bit of that bold, spiced tomato broth — not a drop left behind!
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your Chickpea, Tomato, and Harissa Stew with Herby Yogurt in small ramekins as part of a mezze spread, or ladle it over roasted sweet potatoes for a colorful twist. For a fun, casual meal, set out toppings and let everyone build their perfect bowl with extra herbs, lemon wedges, and a swirl of yogurt.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Chickpea, Tomato, and Harissa Stew with Herby Yogurt keeps beautifully in the fridge. Store the stew and yogurt separately in airtight containers, and they’ll stay fresh for up to four days. The flavors deepen overnight, making it even more delicious the next day!
Freezing
The stew (without yogurt) freezes like a dream. Let it cool completely, pack into freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to three months. The herby yogurt is best made fresh, but you can freeze extra stew for future quick dinners any time you need a flavor-packed meal.
Reheating
To reheat, simply warm the stew gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until hot. Add a splash of water or broth if it’s thickened too much. Top with a fresh dollop of herby yogurt just before serving for that signature creamy finish.
FAQs
Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?
Absolutely! Just soak and cook them until tender before adding to the stew. You’ll need about 3 cups of cooked chickpeas to replace the canned version in Chickpea, Tomato, and Harissa Stew with Herby Yogurt.
What if I don’t have harissa paste?
If you’re out of harissa, try substituting with a mix of chili paste, smoked paprika, and a pinch of cumin. The flavor won’t be exactly the same, but you’ll still get a lovely kick and depth in your stew.
Is this dish spicy?
With two tablespoons of harissa, the stew has a gentle heat, but it’s easy to adjust. Simply use less harissa or skip the red pepper flakes if you prefer things milder. The herby yogurt cools everything down beautifully.
Can I make this vegan?
Definitely! Swap the Greek yogurt for your favorite unsweetened plant-based yogurt, and you’ll have a vegan Chickpea, Tomato, and Harissa Stew with Herby Yogurt that’s just as creamy and satisfying.
What protein can I add for a heartier meal?
This stew is already protein-rich thanks to the chickpeas, but you can add cooked shredded chicken or sautéed tofu if you want to bulk it up even more. Both options pair deliciously with the bold flavors of this dish.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a recipe that’s easy enough for a weeknight yet bursting with color, texture, and flavor in every bite. Give Chickpea, Tomato, and Harissa Stew with Herby Yogurt a spot on your table — I promise, it’ll become a go-to favorite whenever you’re craving something hearty, healthy, and deeply satisfying.
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Chickpea, Tomato, and Harissa Stew with Herby Yogurt Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A hearty and flavorful Middle Eastern-inspired Chickpea, Tomato, and Harissa Stew served with a refreshing herby yogurt topping. This vegetarian and gluten-free stew combines spicy harissa paste, aromatic spices, and tender chickpeas, perfect for a comforting main course.
Ingredients
Stew Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 2 tablespoons harissa paste
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- 2 cans (15 ounces each) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for extra heat)
Herby Yogurt Topping
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
Instructions
- Prepare the Base: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for 5 minutes until softened and translucent.
- Add Aromatics: Stir in minced garlic and chopped red bell pepper, cooking for another 2 minutes until fragrant and slightly softened.
- Season the Stew: Add harissa paste, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and ground coriander to the pot. Stir continuously until the spices are fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add Main Ingredients: Pour in the drained chickpeas, crushed tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you prefer some extra heat.
- Simmer the Stew: Bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and cook uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the stew thickens slightly and flavors meld together.
- Prepare the Herby Yogurt: While the stew simmers, combine plain Greek yogurt, chopped cilantro, chopped parsley, lemon juice, and lemon zest in a small bowl. Mix well and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Final Touch: Taste the stew and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve the hot stew topped with a generous dollop of the herby yogurt and additional fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
- For a creamier texture, mash some of the chickpeas with the back of a spoon while the stew simmers.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with warm crusty bread, couscous, or rice for a complete meal.
- Adjust the amount of harissa paste according to your preferred spice level.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl with yogurt
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 11g
- Protein: 13g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
