Harissa Chickpeas with Coconut Milk
Harissa Chickpeas with Coconut Milk is a vibrant and comforting plant-based dish combining the smoky spice of harissa paste with creamy coconut milk. This easy-to-make recipe features chickpeas simmered in a fragrant sauce of aromatics, warm spices, and vegetable broth, finished with fresh lemon juice and herbs. Perfect for vegan, gluten-free diets, and customizable to your taste, it makes a nourishing and bold-flavored meal.
- Author: Emily
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: North African / Middle Eastern Inspired
- Diet: Vegan, Gluten Free, Dairy Free
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 tablespoons harissa paste (adjust to taste)
- 2 cans (15 oz each) chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk (full-fat preferred)
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
Optional Garnishes and Add-ins
- Chopped fresh cilantro or parsley
- Chopped spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini (for added veggies)
- Cooked lentils, tofu cubes, or tempeh (for extra protein)
- Toasted almonds or pumpkin seeds (for nutty crunch)
- Dollop of yogurt or squeeze of lime (for serving)
- Prepare the aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add finely chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing for about 5 minutes until soft and fragrant, creating a flavorful base for the dish.
- Toast the spices: Sprinkle ground cumin and smoked paprika into the pan. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to release the spices’ aroma and deepen their flavor.
- Add harissa paste and chickpeas: Stir in the harissa paste, coating the onion and spices evenly. Then add the rinsed chickpeas and mix well to distribute the heat and spice throughout.
- Pour in coconut milk and broth: Add the coconut milk and vegetable broth to the pan. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to cook for 10-15 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and flavors meld together.
- Finish with lemon juice and herbs: Remove from heat and stir in fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors. Garnish with chopped cilantro or parsley before serving for freshness and color.
Notes
- Use a high-quality harissa paste or make your own to achieve the best flavor.
- Always rinse canned chickpeas to reduce excess sodium and improve texture.
- Simmer gently without boiling vigorously to keep the coconut milk smooth and silky.
- Adjust the amount of harissa paste gradually to control the spice level according to your preference.
- Do not skip the lemon juice; it adds a vital zing that balances rich and creamy flavors.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: harissa chickpeas, coconut milk curry, vegan chickpea recipe, plant-based dinner, spicy chickpeas, gluten free curry, easy vegan meal