Harissa Beans with Vegan Yogurt, Pesto, and Fresh Basil Recipe
This flavorful Harissa Beans recipe is a vibrant, spicy, and hearty dish made with tender white beans simmered in a rich harissa and tomato sauce. Perfectly balanced with a touch of vegan yogurt and fresh pesto, it offers a delightful blend of North African-inspired heat and Mediterranean freshness. Ideal as a comforting meal or a versatile side, it’s quick to prepare and packed with wholesome ingredients.
- Author: Maya
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: North African / Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegan
Base Ingredients
- 1 shallot, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, finely chopped
- 4 tbsp tomato puree
- 250 g white beans, with stock (recipe uses Bold Bean Co)
Seasonings & Herbs
- 1 tsp harissa paste
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Pinch of salt & pepper
To Serve
- 2 tbsp vegan yogurt
- 2 tbsp pesto
- Handful fresh basil leaves
- Sauté Shallots and Garlic: Finely chop the shallot and garlic clove. Heat a glug of olive oil in a pan over medium heat and fry the shallot and garlic for a few minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Add Tomato Puree: Stir in the tomato puree and loosen it by adding a splash of water. Cook for another minute to combine the flavors.
- Add Beans and Seasonings: Pour in the white beans along with any stock from the jar. Mix in the harissa paste, dried oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together to combine well.
- Simmer and Taste: Allow the beans to cook for a few minutes until heated through and the flavors meld. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve: Spoon the harissa beans into bowls and top with dollops of vegan yogurt and pesto. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve immediately.
Notes
- Using canned beans with their stock adds richness to the sauce; Bold Bean Co is recommended for quality white beans.
- Adjust the amount of harissa according to your preferred spice level.
- For a richer flavor, you can add a splash of olive oil before serving.
- This recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free.
- Pairs well with crusty bread or steamed rice for a complete meal.
Keywords: harissa beans, vegan beans recipe, spicy bean stew, vegan lunch, Mediterranean vegan, North African cuisine, easy bean recipe