Spicy Harissa Chickpea Vegetable Tagine (Print version)
A vibrant North African-inspired stew featuring chickpeas, seasonal vegetables, and a bold kick of harissa for deep, aromatic flavors.
# Ingredient List:
→ Legumes & Protein
01 - 2 cans (15 oz each) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
→ Vegetables
02 - 1 large onion, finely chopped
03 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
05 - 1 red bell pepper, chopped
06 - 1 zucchini, chopped
07 - 1 small eggplant, cubed
08 - 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
09 - 1 cup vegetable broth
10 - 2 tbsp tomato paste
→ Flavorings & Spices
11 - 2–3 tbsp harissa paste
12 - 1 tsp ground cumin
13 - 1 tsp ground coriander
14 - 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
15 - 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
16 - 1/4 tsp ground turmeric
17 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
18 - 2 tbsp olive oil
→ Garnishes
19 - Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
20 - Lemon wedges
# How To Make It:
01 - Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or tagine over medium heat. Add onion and sauté for 5 minutes until soft and translucent.
02 - Stir in garlic, carrots, bell pepper, zucchini, and eggplant. Cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables begin to soften.
03 - Add harissa paste, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, smoked paprika, and turmeric. Sauté for 2 minutes until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
04 - Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to develop flavor and caramelize slightly.
05 - Add diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and chickpeas. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring to combine all ingredients.
06 - Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer gently for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are tender and flavors have melded together.
07 - Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Add more harissa paste for increased heat if desired.
08 - Serve hot in bowls, generously garnished with chopped cilantro or parsley and fresh lemon wedges on the side.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- This dish is a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for chasing away the blues with its rich, comforting flavors.
- It’s incredibly versatile, letting you play with whatever seasonal vegetables you have on hand, making every batch a little unique.
02 -
- Don't rush the spice blooming stage; giving those dried spices a moment in the warm oil truly unlocks their full fragrant potential.
- Using good quality harissa makes all the difference; some brands are much more flavorful and balanced than others, so find one you love!
03 -
- Toast your whole spices (if using) before grinding them for an even more intense and aromatic flavor.
- If you want to prepare this ahead, the flavors deepen wonderfully overnight, making it an excellent make-ahead meal.