Braised Harissa Eggplant with Chickpeas and Cherry Tomatoes
Tender eggplant braised with chickpeas, sweet cherry tomatoes, and aromatic spices. Harissa adds a mild warmth (you can adjust to taste), while olive oil and fresh herbs bring Mediterranean richness. This dish is colorful, healthy, vegan-friendly, and perfect for Christmas or winter meals.
⏱ Time
Prep: 15 minutes
Cook: 30–35 minutes
Total: 45–50 minutes
🧺 Ingredients
2 medium eggplants, cut into 1-inch cubes
2 tbsp olive oil
1 onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp ground coriander
1–2 tsp harissa paste (adjust to spice preference)
1 can (400g) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved
½ cup vegetable broth or water
Salt & pepper, to taste
2 tbsp fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
Juice of ½ lemon
🍽️ Instructions
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
Sauté onion until soft, about 5 minutes.
Add garlic, cumin, and coriander; cook 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Cook Eggplant
Add cubed eggplant to the pan. Sauté 5–7 minutes until slightly golden.
Step 3: Add Harissa & Tomatoes
Stir in harissa paste, chickpeas, and cherry tomatoes.
Pour in vegetable broth, season with salt and pepper.
Step 4: Braise
Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook 15–20 minutes until eggplant is tender and flavors meld.
Step 5: Finish
Stir in lemon juice and fresh herbs.
Taste and adjust seasoning.
Step 6: Serve
Serve warm as a main with couscous, quinoa, or crusty bread, or as a colorful side dish.
💡 Tips
For a milder version, use roasted red pepper paste instead of harissa.
Add toasted pine nuts or feta cheese on top for extra texture and flavor.
Eggplant can be roasted separately for extra caramelization before braising.
Keeps well — tastes even better the next day as flavors develop.
❓ frequently Asked Questions FAQ
Q: Can this be made vegan?
Yes — this recipe is naturally vegan.
Q: Can I make it spicier?
Add more harissa or a pinch of chili flakes.
Q: Can I make it ahead?
Yes — prepare a day in advance and reheat gently before serving.
🧮 Nutrition information
Calories: 280
Protein: 10g
Carbs: 30g
Fat: 14g
Fiber: 8g