Caramelized Onion Harissa Chickpeas bring together the sweetness of caramelized onions and the spicy warmth of harissa paste, enveloping tender chickpeas in a dish that’s simple yet bursting with flavor. This vegetarian recipe offers a delightful blend of textures and aromas, making it perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a flavorful side dish. Let’s dive into how to create this enticing dish that will surely become a staple in your kitchen.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 220
- Protein: 7 grams
- Carbohydrates: 30 grams
- Fat: 9 grams
- Fiber: 8 grams
- Sugar: 4 grams
- Sodium: 300 mg
Why Make This Caramelized Onion Harissa Chickpeas
This dish is a vibrant explosion of flavors and colors, perfect for plant-based eaters and anyone looking to add a zesty, nutritious boost to their meals. The caramelized onions bring a rich sweetness to the chickpeas, while the harissa adds a delightful kick that warms the palate. It’s an easy recipe that comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights while still impressing guests at dinner parties.
How to Make Caramelized Onion Harissa Chickpeas
Ingredients:
- 1 can chickpeas
- 2 large onions
- 2 tablespoons harissa paste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Directions:
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Step 1: Preparation
Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. As the oil warms, prepare the onions by slicing them thinly. This will help them caramelize deliciously.
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Step 2: Sautéing the Onions
Add the sliced onions to the pan and cook, stirring frequently, until they become caramelized and golden brown. This process should take about 15-20 minutes. Watch them closely to ensure they don’t burn; you want them sweet and soft!
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Step 3: Mixing in the Harissa
Stir in the harissa paste and cook for another 2-3 minutes. The harissa will infuse the onions with a deep, spicy flavor, creating a comforting and aromatic base for the chickpeas.
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Step 4: Adding the Chickpeas
Add the canned chickpeas, which should be drained and rinsed, to the pan. Cook everything together for about 5-7 minutes until the chickpeas are heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
How to Serve Caramelized Onion Harissa Chickpeas
Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. This dish pairs beautifully with couscous or quinoa, and also makes an excellent filling for pita pockets or wraps. You can even enjoy it on a bed of greens for a refreshing salad.
How to Store Caramelized Onion Harissa Chickpeas
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to restore moisture. The flavors often deepen and improve overnight, making this a fantastic dish for meal prep!
Expert Tips for Perfect Caramelized Onion Harissa Chickpeas
- Be patient when caramelizing the onions; low and slow is the secret to developing their full sweetness.
- If you’re looking for less heat, start with a smaller amount of harissa paste and increase to your taste preference.
- For extra texture, consider adding toasted nuts or seeds as a garnish before serving.
- Experiment with different herbs like cilantro or parsley to brighten the dish.
Delicious Variations
- Add chopped spinach or kale for an extra dose of greens and nutrients.
- Substitute the harissa with a different spicy paste or sauce, like sriracha or sambal oelek, to change up the flavor profile.
- Toss in some roasted vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, to create a heartier meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?
Yes, but you’ll need to soak and cook them ahead of time. About 1/2 cup of dried chickpeas will yield one can of cooked chickpeas. -
What if I don’t have harissa?
You can make a quick substitute using a combination of paprika, cayenne, and a touch of garlic powder for a similar flavor profile. -
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! All the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. -
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze them for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. -
What pairs well with this dish?
This dish is fantastic with a side of rice, pita bread, or even atop a grain bowl for added protein and satisfaction.
Conclusion
Caramelized Onion Harissa Chickpeas are not just easy to make but also a crowd-pleaser that showcases simple yet bold flavors. Whether served alone or as a side, this dish delights the palate and nourishes the body. Try your hand at this recipe, play with the ingredients, and enjoy a meal that’s as satisfying to create as it is to eat! Happy cooking!
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Caramelized Onion Harissa Chickpeas
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A vibrant dish combining the sweetness of caramelized onions with the spicy warmth of harissa paste, enveloping tender chickpeas for a flavorful vegetarian meal.
Ingredients
- 1 can chickpeas
- 2 large onions
- 2 tablespoons harissa paste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Slice the onions thinly.
- Add the sliced onions to the pan and cook, stirring frequently, until they become caramelized and golden brown (15-20 minutes).
- Stir in the harissa paste and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
- Add the drained and rinsed chickpeas to the pan and cook for about 5-7 minutes until heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Notes
Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs. Pairs well with couscous or quinoa, and can fill pita pockets or be served on a bed of greens.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 0mg