Braised Harissa Eggplant with Chickpeas

If you’re looking for a dish that’s bursting with flavor and packed with nutrients, look no further than this Braised Harissa Eggplant with Chickpeas. This recipe takes the humble eggplant and elevates it to new heights with a medley of spices, hearty chickpeas, and a rich tomato sauce. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or a side dish, it’s sure to impress both family and friends. Let’s dive into the details of this delicious dish!

Why It Works Every Time

Braised Harissa Eggplant with Chickpeas is a perfect marriage of textures and flavors. The eggplant becomes tender and absorbs the spices beautifully, while the chickpeas add a creamy, satisfying element. The harissa introduces a gentle heat that’s balanced by the acidity of crushed tomatoes and the freshness of parsley. This dish is not only aromatic and delicious, but it also provides a fantastic nutritional boost with plant-based proteins and fiber.

The Essentials

• 1 large eggplant
• 1 tablespoon sea salt, plus extra
• 3 tablespoons olive or avocado oil
• 1 medium cooking onion, small dice
• 1 small chili (such as cayenne or Fresno), seeded and minced
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground caraway
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 cup cooked chickpeas
• Ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 cups crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup vegetable stock
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• ½ cup chopped flat-leaf parsley

Gear Up: What to Grab

• Large chef’s knife – for cutting the eggplant and vegetables with ease.
• Cutting board – a sturdy surface to chop and prepare your ingredients.
• Large skillet or Dutch oven – to braise the eggplant and chickpeas together.
• Measuring cups and spoons – for precise ingredient measurements.
• Wooden spoon – to stir and combine the ingredients as they cook.

Make Braised Harissa Eggplant with Chickpeas: A Simple Method

Step 1: Prepare the Eggplant

Start by cutting the eggplant into 1-inch cubes. Place the cubes in a colander and sprinkle with 1 tablespoon of sea salt. Allow them to sit for about 30 minutes to draw out excess moisture and bitterness. Rinse and pat dry with paper towels.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat 3 tablespoons of olive or avocado oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced chili and garlic, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Add Spices

Sprinkle in the ground cumin, caraway, and coriander. Stir well to coat the onion, garlic, and chili in the spices. This step is crucial for building the foundation of flavor in your dish.

Step 4: Incorporate Eggplant and Chickpeas

Add the prepared eggplant to the skillet, along with the cooked chickpeas. Season with ground black pepper to taste. Stir everything together to ensure that the eggplant is coated in the spices and oil.

Step 5: Pour in the Liquids

Add the crushed tomatoes and vegetable stock to the skillet. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 6: Braise

Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Allow the eggplant and chickpeas to braise for about 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the eggplant is tender and the flavors have melded together.

Step 7: Finish with Freshness

Once the braising is complete, remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the fresh lemon juice and chopped parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if necessary.

Allergy-Friendly Substitutes

• For nut allergies: Ensure that any oil used is free from cross-contamination with nuts.
• For gluten sensitivity: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but always check labels on canned goods.
• For vegan diets: This recipe is already vegan-friendly, using plant-based ingredients.
• For low-sodium diets: Use low-sodium vegetable stock and reduce or omit added salt.

Chef’s Notes

• Feel free to adjust the level of spice by using more or less chili based on your preference.
• If you have fresh herbs on hand, consider adding cilantro or mint for an added layer of flavor.
• This dish can be made ahead of time and tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.
• For a heartier meal, serve this over cooked quinoa or couscous.

Cooling, Storing & Rewarming

Allow the Braised Harissa Eggplant with Chickpeas to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To rewarm, simply heat in a skillet over low heat until warmed through, adding a splash of vegetable stock if it seems too thick.

FAQ

Can I use other vegetables in this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach for added nutrition and variety.

What if I don’t have harissa?

If you don’t have harissa, you can make a simple substitute by mixing together a bit of chili paste, cumin, and a squeeze of lemon juice to mimic the flavors.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish is perfect for meal prep. It stores well and can be made in advance for easy lunches or dinners.

How can I make this dish spicier?

If you prefer more heat, consider adding red pepper flakes, a hotter variety of chili, or even a dash of hot sauce to the dish during cooking.

Weekend Projects

• Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Bowl – A great complement to your Braised Harissa Eggplant.
• Easy Chickpea Curry – Another delightful chickpea dish to try.
• Vegan Mushroom Lentil Shepherd’s Pie – A hearty meal perfect for cozy nights.
• Coconut Chickpea Curry – A creamy and comforting dish that pairs well with rice.

The Last Word

Braised Harissa Eggplant with Chickpeas is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and comfort to the table. This dish is a beautiful representation of how simple ingredients can come together to create a symphony of flavors. Each bite is a reminder of the richness of plant-based cooking. So, gather your ingredients, invite some friends over, and take your taste buds on a delightful journey with this aromatic dish. You’ll find yourself making it time and time again, as it’s truly versatile and satisfying. Enjoy the process, and savor every bite!