Description
This Creamy Harissa Broth with Rice is a flavorful, spicy vegan stew inspired by Middle Eastern cuisine. Featuring a rich blend of harissa paste, coconut milk, and aromatic spices, this comforting main course is packed with chickpeas, baby spinach, and fluffy basmati or jasmine rice, delivering both warmth and nutrition in every bowl.
Ingredients
Scale
Base Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Spices & Paste
- 1 tablespoon harissa paste (more to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
Liquids
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup full-fat coconut milk
Main Additions
- 3/4 cup cooked basmati or jasmine rice
- 1 cup canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup baby spinach, lightly packed
Seasonings & Garnish
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 4 to 5 minutes until softened and translucent, creating a flavor base.
- Add Garlic and Spices: Stir in minced garlic, harissa paste, ground cumin, and smoked paprika. Cook together for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant, allowing the spices to bloom.
- Simmer Broth and Coconut Milk: Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir in the coconut milk and let it simmer gently for 5 minutes to meld all flavors.
- Add Rice and Chickpeas: Incorporate the cooked rice and drained chickpeas into the broth. Continue to simmer for another 3 to 4 minutes until everything is heated through.
- Wilt Spinach and Season: Just before serving, stir in the baby spinach and cook briefly until wilted. Season the broth with salt, black pepper, and fresh lemon juice to enhance brightness.
- Serve and Garnish: Ladle the creamy harissa broth with rice into bowls, and top with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley. Serve hot and enjoy.
Notes
- Adjust the harissa paste quantity to control the level of spiciness according to your taste.
- You can substitute coconut milk with heavy cream or Greek yogurt for a richer creamy base.
- Using leftover cooked rice makes this recipe faster and reduces prep time.
- For a heartier meal, add roasted vegetables or shredded cooked chicken.
