Caramelized Shallot and Harissa Stew with Chickpeas and Preserved Lemon
Get ready to cozy up with a bowl of bold, vibrant flavors! This Caramelized Shallot and Harissa Stew is a hug in stew form—sweet shallots, smoky harissa, hearty chickpeas, and the zing of preserved lemon make every spoonful sing. Let’s make magic in your kitchen together!
4.6 out of 5 (5 ratings)
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
40 minutes
Servings
4 servings
Cuisine
Middle Eastern
Ingredients
- •4 tablespoons olive oil
- •6 medium shallots, thinly sliced
- •4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
- •2 tablespoons harissa paste
- •1 teaspoon ground cumin
- •1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- •1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- •1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
- •2 cups vegetable broth
- •1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- •1 preserved lemon, finely chopped
- •1 cup baby spinach
- •Salt to taste
- •Black pepper to taste
- •Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions
- 1
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- 2
Add the thinly sliced shallots and cook, stirring occasionally, for 10-12 minutes until they are caramelized and golden brown.
- 3
Stir in the garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- 4
Add the harissa paste, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and ground cinnamon. Stir well to coat the shallots and garlic in the spices, cooking for 1-2 minutes to toast the spices and release their aroma.
- 5
Pour in the diced tomatoes and vegetable broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- 6
Add the chickpeas and preserved lemon, stirring to distribute them evenly. Let the stew simmer gently for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- 7
Stir in the baby spinach and cook for another 2-3 minutes until wilted.
- 8
Season the stew with salt and black pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning as needed.
- 9
Serve the stew warm, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves. Pair with couscous, crusty bread, or rice for a complete meal.
Nutrition Information
Calories
320 calories
Protein
10g
Carbs
40g
Fat
14g
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I substitute harissa paste if I don't have it?
A: Yes, you can substitute harissa paste with a mix of chili paste and a small amount of cumin, coriander, paprika, and olive oil to mimic its flavor. Alternatively, sambal oelek or another chili paste can work, but the flavor might be slightly different. Adjust the quantity based on your spice preference.
Q: What can I use instead of preserved lemon?
A: If you don't have preserved lemon, you can use a combination of fresh lemon zest and a small squeeze of lemon juice for acidity. Add a pinch of salt to mimic the preserved lemon's briny flavor. Keep in mind that the flavor won't be as complex but will still work well in the dish.
Q: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned diced tomatoes?
A: Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. Substitute about 2 cups of finely chopped fresh tomatoes for the canned version. If the fresh tomatoes are not very juicy, you might need to add a little extra vegetable broth to maintain the stew's consistency.
Q: How do I store leftovers, and how long will they last?
A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of vegetable broth or water if the stew has thickened too much during storage.
Q: Can I freeze this stew?
A: Yes, this stew freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally, and adding a bit of broth if needed.
Q: Can I add protein or other vegetables to the stew?
A: Absolutely! This stew is versatile. You can add cooked chicken, lamb, or beef for additional protein. For more vegetables, consider adding diced sweet potatoes, zucchini, or bell peppers. Adjust the cooking time to ensure the added ingredients are tender and fully cooked.
Q: What can I serve with this stew to make it a complete meal?
A: This stew pairs wonderfully with couscous, quinoa, or rice to soak up the flavorful broth. Crusty bread is also a great option for dipping. For a heartier meal, serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple green salad.
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