Name: Chickpea, Tomato, and Harissa Stew with Herby Yogurt
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 tbsp olive oil; 250g cherry or baby plum tomatoes; 2 garlic cloves, finely sliced; 1 jar Queen Chickpeas with their bean stock; 2 tbsp harissa paste; 2 garlic cloves, grated; 1 lemon, zested; 15g fresh dill, finely chopped; 3 tsp capers, drained; 250g Greek yogurt (or vegan alternative); Warm flatbreads; Couscous

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There’s something so comforting about a big bowl of stew, don’t you think? It’s the kind of dish that wraps you up in warmth, filled with all the spices and flavors that make you feel like you’re having a cozy, soul-soothing meal. This Chickpea, Tomato, and Harissa Stew with Herby Yogurt is just that—a hearty, flavorful dish that’s incredibly easy to make, yet packed with bold flavors. Trust me, you’re going to love how the creamy yogurt balances out the heat from the harissa, making each bite a perfectly satisfying combination.

Why You’ll Love Chickpea, Tomato, and Harissa Stew with Herby Yogurt

This stew isn’t just a meal—it’s an experience. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner, a special gathering, or just because you need something that’s both nourishing and delicious, this dish has got you covered. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Flavor Explosion: The harissa brings just the right amount of heat, while the chickpeas soak up all that tasty spiced goodness. The tomatoes give it a fresh, juicy base, and that herby yogurt drizzle? Pure magic. It’s comfort food with a spicy, tangy twist.

Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in no time! You can make it with simple pantry ingredients, and it doesn’t require hours of simmering. Even if you’re new to cooking, you’ll feel like a pro whipping up this stew.

Vegetarian and Hearty: Full of fiber-rich chickpeas, this stew is both filling and nutritious, so it’s perfect for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. It’s the kind of meal that makes you feel satisfied without the heaviness.

Customizable: Like your food spicy? Add more harissa. Want it milder? A dollop of extra yogurt can help tone it down. It’s super easy to adjust based on your taste preferences.

Perfect for Leftovers: This stew actually tastes better the next day once all those flavors have had time to mingle. It’s the perfect make-ahead dish for lunch or dinner!

Now, let’s dive into the recipe and get cooking!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for this Chickpea, Tomato, and Harissa Stew. These ingredients are simple, but when they come together, they create a hearty, flavorful dish that will make your taste buds sing:

Chickpeas: The main protein-packed ingredient, chickpeas add heartiness to the stew, soaking up all those wonderful spices.

Tomatoes: Fresh, juicy tomatoes create the base of the stew, adding sweetness and tanginess. They’re the perfect complement to the heat of the harissa.

Harissa: This North African chili paste is what brings the heat and depth of flavor to the dish. It’s smoky, spicy, and full of flavor. A little goes a long way!

Onion: Sweet and savory, onions are sautéed to create a flavorful base. They add both depth and sweetness to balance out the spicy harissa.

Garlic: You can’t go wrong with garlic—adds a punch of flavor and aroma that fills your kitchen with goodness.

Olive Oil: For sautéing and adding richness to the stew. It’s the perfect base for all the flavors to meld together.

Vegetable Broth: This helps create the base of the stew, adding depth of flavor without overpowering the other ingredients.

Lemon Juice: A squeeze of lemon brightens up the dish and balances the richness of the yogurt and the spice from the harissa.

Greek Yogurt: The creamy, tangy topping that cools down the heat and adds a luscious finish to every spoonful.

Fresh Herbs (Mint or Parsley): Fresh herbs give the stew a burst of freshness and a beautiful contrast to the richness of the dish.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

This Chickpea, Tomato, and Harissa Stew comes together with a few easy steps that’ll have you feeling like a cooking rockstar. Let’s get started:

Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and cook for about 5 minutes, until they become soft and fragrant. This is the base of your stew, so take your time to let those flavors develop.

Cook the Tomatoes and Harissa: Add the diced tomatoes to the pot, and cook for about 5 minutes, allowing them to break down and release their juices. Stir in the harissa, letting it coat the tomatoes and onions. The heat from the harissa will really start to shine here!

Add the Chickpeas and Broth: Stir in the chickpeas and vegetable broth, then bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together. The stew should thicken slightly, but you can add a little more broth if you prefer a thinner consistency.

Finish with Lemon Juice: Once the stew is cooked, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a pop of brightness that’ll balance out all the rich flavors.

Prepare the Herby Yogurt: In a small bowl, mix the Greek yogurt with a handful of chopped fresh herbs (mint or parsley work beautifully). This herby yogurt will add a creamy, refreshing contrast to the stew’s bold, spicy flavors.

Serve and Enjoy: Spoon the stew into bowls, drizzle with the herby yogurt, and garnish with extra herbs if desired. Serve it warm and enjoy the rich, comforting flavors with a spicy kick!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 320

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

How to Serve Chickpea, Tomato, and Harissa Stew with Herby Yogurt

This stew is delicious all on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a few sides to round out the meal:

Warm Crusty Bread: Serve with a loaf of crusty bread to soak up every last bit of the stew. It’s the perfect side to dip into that rich, flavorful sauce.

Couscous or Rice: If you want a more substantial base, couscous or rice is a great option to serve underneath the stew. It absorbs the flavors wonderfully.

Fresh Salad: A simple green salad with a lemony dressing would be the perfect refreshing contrast to the warmth of the stew.

Extra Herby Yogurt: If you love the creamy yogurt topping, serve a little extra on the side. It’s a cool, tangy complement to the heat of the stew.

Additional Tips

Here are a few ways to make this recipe even better:

Prep Ahead: You can chop the veggies and prepare the chickpeas in advance. This stew also stores well in the fridge, so it’s a great make-ahead meal.

Customize the Heat: Not a fan of too much spice? You can adjust the harissa to your liking or even omit it completely for a milder stew. Add extra lemon juice or a drizzle of honey if you want to balance the heat.

Herb Variations: While mint and parsley are the go-to herbs, try adding cilantro, dill, or basil for a different twist.

Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months—just let it cool completely before freezing.

Double the Recipe: This stew freezes beautifully, so make a double batch and save some for later!

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use canned chickpeas instead of dried?
A1: Absolutely! Canned chickpeas are a great shortcut. Just make sure to drain and rinse them before adding them to the stew.

Q2: Can I make this dish without harissa?
A2: Yes, you can substitute harissa with other chili pastes or even smoked paprika for a milder version. You’ll still get a flavorful stew!

Q3: Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?
A3: Yes! Regular yogurt will work, but Greek yogurt adds a nice thickness and creaminess that balances out the spices beautifully.

Q4: How spicy is this stew?
A4: The heat level depends on how much harissa you add. If you like spice, go for a little extra! If you prefer it mild, just add a small amount.

Q5: Can I add meat to this stew?
A5: Yes! You can add chicken or lamb for extra protein. Just brown the meat before adding the onions and garlic to the pot.

Q6: Can I make this stew in advance?
A6: Yes! This stew actually tastes better the next day as the flavors develop. Store it in the fridge, and reheat it when you’re ready to serve.

Q7: Can I freeze this stew?
A7: Yes! This stew freezes really well. Just let it cool, then store in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat when you’re ready to enjoy.

Q8: How can I make this stew vegan?
A8: To make it vegan, simply swap the Greek yogurt for a plant-based yogurt alternative, and you’re good to go!

Q9: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
A9: Definitely! Fresh tomatoes work just as well. Just chop them finely and cook them down until they release their juices.

Q10: How can I make this stew thicker?
A10: If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mash some of the chickpeas once it’s done cooking, or cook it for a bit longer to reduce the liquid.

Conclusion

And there you have it—your very own bowl of Chickpea, Tomato, and Harissa Stew with Herby Yogurt! This dish is comforting, flavorful, and packed with layers of spices and textures. The creamy yogurt topping brings everything together, cooling down the heat and adding a refreshing touch. It’s a dish that’s both satisfying and exciting, perfect for any occasion. Enjoy every bite, and trust me, this will become a staple in your kitchen! Happy cooking!