One-Pan Harissa Chickpeas Recipe
This one-pan harissa chickpeas recipe is a bold, spicy, and comforting dish packed with smoky flavors from harissa, a North African chili paste. Simmered with tomatoes, garlic, and spices, these chickpeas develop a rich, saucy texture perfect for serving over rice, couscous, or with crusty bread. This meal is vegan, high in protein, and easy to make in just one pan, making it great for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
For the Chickpeas:
1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon harissa paste (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon cumin
½ teaspoon coriander
½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
¼ cup vegetable broth or water
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon maple syrup or honey (optional, to balance heat)
Optional Add-ins & Garnish:
½ cup spinach or kale (for extra greens)
¼ cup crumbled feta (if not vegan)
1 tablespoon fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for extra heat)
Instructions
Step 1: Saute the Aromatics
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and saute for about 3-4 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Add the Spices & Harissa
1. Stir in the harissa paste, smoked paprika, cumin, coriander, salt, and black pepper.
2. Cook for 1-2 minutes to toast the spices and intensify the flavors.
Step 3: Simmer the Chickpeas
1. Add the chickpeas, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Stir to combine.
2. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook uncovered for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. If adding spinach or kale, stir it in during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Step 4: Final Touches
1. Stir in lemon juice and maple syrup (if using) to balance the flavors.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
3. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro and optional crumbled feta.
Step 5: Serve
Serve warm over rice, quinoa, couscous, or with crusty bread.
Nutritional Information
(Per Serving – 1 of 3 Servings)
Calories: ~260
Protein: ~9g
Carbohydrates: ~34g
Fiber: ~9g
Fats: ~10g
Saturated Fat: ~1.5g
Cholesterol: 0mg (vegan)
Sodium: ~600mg
Sugar: ~7g (from tomatoes & optional sweetener)
(Nutritional values may vary based on exact ingredients used.)
Notes
Harissa Intensity: Harissa varies in spice level. Start with 1 teaspoon and adjust to taste.
Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of broth.
Serving Ideas: Serve with warm pita bread, couscous, or even as a topping for baked potatoes.
Protein Boost: Add tofu, tempeh, or an extra can of chickpeas for more protein.
Time Breakdown
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: ~25 minutes
Questions & Answers
Q: Can I make this dish less spicy?
A: Yes! Use less harissa or replace some of it with tomato paste for a milder flavor.
Q: What if I don’t have harissa?
A: You can substitute with 1 teaspoon chili paste + 1 teaspoon tomato paste + a pinch of cumin and smoked paprika.
Q: Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?
A: Yes, but you’ll need to soak and cook them beforehand. Use about 1 ½ cups cooked chickpeas.
Q: What can I serve with this dish?
A: It pairs well with rice, quinoa, couscous, or naan bread. A cucumber-yogurt sauce can also balance the heat.
Q: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
A: Yes! Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours, adding spinach at the end.