Get ready to embark on a culinary journey that will transport your taste buds straight to North Africa! This harissa cauliflower lentil stew is not just a meal – it's a flavor explosion that combines hearty lentils, tender cauliflower, and the bold, fiery kick of harissa paste. Perfect for those seeking a nutritious, warming dish that's both vegetarian-friendly and incredibly satisfying, this recipe promises to become your new go-to comfort food that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: North African
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 head cauliflower, chopped
- 1 cup lentils, rinsed
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons harissa paste
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Incorporate the chopped cauliflower into the pot, stirring well to combine with the onion and garlic. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, allowing the cauliflower to soften slightly.
- Rinse the lentils under cold water and add them to the pot. Stir to combine with the other ingredients.
- Pour in the can of diced tomatoes (with their juice) and add the harissa paste. Stir well to ensure the harissa is evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Pour in the vegetable broth, stirring to combine all the ingredients. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 30-35 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and the cauliflower is cooked through.
- Once the stew is cooked, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If the stew is too thick, you can add a bit more vegetable broth to reach your desired consistency.
- Serve the harissa cauliflower lentil stew hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added flavor.
Tips
- Harissa Selection: Choose a high-quality harissa paste for maximum flavor. If you prefer less heat, start with less paste and add gradually.
- Cauliflower Prep: Cut cauliflower into similar-sized florets to ensure even cooking. Smaller pieces will cook faster and absorb more flavor.
- Lentil Tip: Rinse lentils thoroughly before cooking to remove any debris and prevent a gritty texture.
- Consistency Control: If the stew becomes too thick while cooking, don't hesitate to add a bit more vegetable broth to maintain your desired consistency.
- Flavor Enhancement: For an extra depth of flavor, consider toasting your spices briefly before adding the harissa paste.
- Garnish Generously: Fresh parsley isn't just for looks – it adds a bright, fresh note that complements the rich, spicy stew.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: This stew tastes even better the next day, so don't hesitate to make it in advance for meal prep!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
