If you’re craving a dish that wraps you in warmth, spiced richness, and comforting creaminess, then this Creamy Harissa Broth with Rice Recipe is absolutely the one to try. Imagine tender jasmine rice swimming in a silky, spicy harissa-infused broth that’s brightened up with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon. It’s simple, soulful, and packs vibrant layers of flavor that make every spoonful a delight. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying weeknight meal or a cozy dish to impress friends, this recipe hits the perfect balance between hearty and exotic, creamy and bright, easy and impressive.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Creamy Harissa Broth with Rice Recipe lies in its simplicity and thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a starring role, from the aromatic onion and garlic that create a fragrant base, to harissa paste that brings bold spice, and creamy heavy cream that softens and rounds out the heat. The rice cooks right in this luscious broth, soaking up every bit of flavor, while chickpeas add a satisfying texture and protein boost. Let’s break down these essentials!
- Olive oil: For sautéing onion and garlic, adding a subtle fruitiness and richness.
- Medium onion, chopped: Builds the flavor base with its natural sweetness.
- Garlic, minced: Delivers a fragrant punch that enhances the broth’s depth.
- Harissa paste: The star spice that infuses the broth with smoky heat and vibrant color.
- Ground cumin: Adds warmth and earthiness complementing the harissa.
- Vegetable or chicken broth: Creates the flavorful liquid that the rice will cook in.
- Heavy cream: Makes the broth luxuriously creamy and softens the spice.
- Jasmine or basmati rice, rinsed: Soaks up the flavorful broth for perfect texture and aroma.
- Chickpeas, drained and rinsed: A nutritious addition for protein and a slightly nutty bite.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to balance and enhance all flavors.
- Fresh cilantro or parsley: Bright herbaceous garnish that adds freshness and color.
- Lemon wedges: To serve alongside for a zesty finish that lifts the dish.
How to Make Creamy Harissa Broth with Rice Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by warming olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking them gently until the onions turn translucent and release their sweet aroma, about 4 to 5 minutes. This step lays the fragrant foundation for the broth and ensures the flavors meld beautifully.
Step 2: Add Harissa and Spices
Next, stir in the harissa paste along with the ground cumin. Keep stirring frequently for about two minutes, allowing the spices to bloom and infuse the oil and onions with their smoky, warm essence. The vibrant reddish hue you’ll see is the promise of the wonderful flavor ahead.
Step 3: Pour in the Broth and Simmer
Pour in your choice of vegetable or chicken broth and bring it all up to a simmer. This step builds the liquid backbone of your dish, blending those spices with the savory broth into one delicious base.
Step 4: Stir in the Cream
Once the broth is gently simmering, stir in the heavy cream. This enriches the broth, making it smooth, silky, and balancing the spiciness of the harissa. Let the cream blend into the broth with another gentle simmer, so all those flavors marry perfectly.
Step 5: Add the Rice and Cook
Now, stir in the rinsed jasmine or basmati rice, lowering the heat to maintain a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and let the rice cook for about 15 to 20 minutes. The rice will absorb the creamy, spicy broth, becoming tender while soaking up all the aromatic flavors.
Step 6: Finish with Chickpeas and Seasoning
Finally, stir in the drained chickpeas to bring in a delightful texture and extra protein. Let them warm through for about five minutes. Before serving, taste and adjust with salt and pepper to perfectly balance the rich, spicy broth.
How to Serve Creamy Harissa Broth with Rice Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley on top creates a delightful contrast to the creamy, spicy broth. The aromatic greenery not only brightens the flavor but also adds a lovely splash of color that makes the dish pop on the table.
Side Dishes
This dish stands strong on its own but pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a crisp cucumber salad, warm toasted flatbread, or a crunchy slaw to add texture and freshness. These choices balance the richness and make for a complete meal experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For a casual dinner, serve the Creamy Harissa Broth with Rice Recipe in wide, shallow bowls to show off the vibrant broth and colorful garnishes. If you’re entertaining, try portioning it into small cups or bowls for a fun appetizer or tasting. A wedge of lemon on the side invites everyone to squeeze a bit of brightness over the dish just before digging in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftover Creamy Harissa Broth with Rice Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure it’s cool before refrigerating to keep the flavors fresh and the texture just right.
Freezing
If you want to save it for longer, freezing is possible but the rice texture may soften further upon thawing. Use a freezer-safe container and consume within one month for best taste and texture.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You might want to add a splash of broth or water to loosen up the creamy broth if it thickens too much. Avoid microwaving for best flavor and consistency.
FAQs
Can I use other types of rice for this recipe?
Absolutely! Jasmine or basmati rice is recommended for their fragrant aroma and fluffy texture, but you can substitute with any long-grain rice you prefer. Just adjust cooking time accordingly, as different rice types absorb liquid differently.
Is harissa very spicy?
Harissa has a moderate heat level that can be adjusted based on the brand or amount used. If you prefer milder flavors, start with less harissa paste and taste as you go. It still offers great smoky warmth even in smaller quantities.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! Simply swap the heavy cream for a plant-based alternative like coconut cream or cashew cream, and use vegetable broth to keep it entirely plant-based while maintaining that creamy texture and rich flavor.
What can I substitute for chickpeas?
If chickpeas aren’t your favorite, try white beans or lentils for a similar texture and protein boost. Each will bring a slightly different flavor but work well with the creamy harissa broth.
How long does the Creamy Harissa Broth with Rice Recipe take to make?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to cook, making it a perfect choice when you want a flavorful meal without a long wait.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend the Creamy Harissa Broth with Rice Recipe enough—it’s that perfect cozy bowl that feels like a warm hug on a plate. With its irresistible combination of creamy texture, spicy depth, and vibrant freshness, it’s bound to become one of your favorite go-to dishes. Give it a try and get ready to savor every warming spoonful!
Print
Creamy Harissa Broth with Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: North African-inspired
Description
This Creamy Harissa Broth with Rice is a comforting and flavorful one-pot meal combining the heat and depth of harissa paste with creamy broth, tender jasmine or basmati rice, and protein-rich chickpeas. It’s a simple yet hearty dish perfect for a cozy lunch or dinner, garnished with fresh herbs and brightened with a squeeze of lemon.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon harissa paste
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup jasmine or basmati rice, rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Heat the Olive Oil: In a large pot, warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat to prepare the base for sautéing your aromatics.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions become translucent and fragrant, approximately 4-5 minutes.
- Add Spices: Stir in 1 tablespoon of harissa paste and 1 teaspoon of ground cumin into the onion and garlic mixture. Cook for 2 more minutes while stirring frequently to release the spices’ flavors.
- Pour in Broth: Add 4 cups of vegetable or chicken broth to the pot and bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
- Incorporate Heavy Cream: Once simmering, stir in 1 cup of heavy cream. Allow the mixture to return to a gentle simmer.
- Add Rice: Stir in the rinsed cup of jasmine or basmati rice. Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot to maintain a gentle simmer.
- Cook the Rice: Let the rice cook in the broth for 15-20 minutes, until tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Add Chickpeas: Stir in the drained and rinsed chickpeas. Continue cooking for an additional 5 minutes to heat through and combine flavors.
- Season: Taste the broth and season with salt and pepper to your preference.
- Garnish and Serve: Spoon the creamy harissa broth and rice into bowls. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley and serve with lemon wedges for a bright finish.
Notes
- You can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
- Adjust harissa paste quantity to control the level of spiciness.
- Using jasmine rice will give a more fragrant and softer texture, while basmati rice adds a nuttier aroma with separate grains.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
- For added protein, consider topping with a fried egg or crumbled feta cheese.
