Introduction
The first time I tried harissa butter beans, I wasn’t expecting much. I had a can of butter beans sitting in my pantry and a jar of harissa paste that I had barely used. One evening, craving something warm, spicy, and comforting, I decided to experiment. After a few simple steps—sautéing garlic, adding harissa, and letting the butter beans simmer—I was hooked. The creamy texture, smoky heat, and deep flavors made this dish an instant favorite in my kitchen.
What makes harissa butter beans so special? They are quick, easy, and versatile. In under 30 minutes, you get a rich, spicy, and hearty meal that works as a main dish, side, or even a dip. Whether served with crusty bread, rice, or roasted vegetables, this dish is guaranteed to satisfy.
Another reason I love this recipe is its adaptability. Want it mild? Reduce the harissa and add smoked paprika. Craving a stew? Add diced tomatoes and extra broth. Need more creaminess? Blend some of the beans before serving. No matter how you customize it, the result is always delicious.
Now, let’s dive into everything you need to make this spicy, smoky, and creamy harissa butter beans recipe! If you love bold flavors, you might also enjoy these spicy peanuts—a crunchy, fiery snack that pairs perfectly with this dish.
What You’ll Need
Before you start cooking, it’s important to gather the right equipment and ingredients. Having everything prepared will make the process smooth and stress-free, ensuring your harissa butter beans turn out perfectly creamy and flavorful.
Essential Equipment
To make this easy and delicious harissa butter beans recipe, you’ll need:
- A large skillet or pan – A wide surface helps cook everything evenly.
- A wooden spoon – Great for stirring without scratching your pan.
- A blender (optional) – If you prefer a smoother, creamier texture, blend half of the beans before adding them back to the dish.
Ingredients for Harissa Butter Beans
To create a rich and flavorful dish, you’ll need:
- 2 cans (15 oz each) of butter beans – Also known as lima beans in the U.S., they become soft and creamy when simmered.
- 2 tablespoons of harissa paste – This North African chili paste adds a spicy, smoky depth. Adjust based on your heat preference.
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil – Helps enhance the flavors and prevents sticking.
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced – Adds a bold, aromatic base to the dish.
- 1 tablespoon of tomato paste – Provides richness and balance to the flavors.
- 1 cup of vegetable broth – Helps create a smooth, creamy sauce.
- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice – Adds brightness and freshness.
- 1 teaspoon of paprika – Enhances the smoky depth of the harissa.
- 1 teaspoon of cumin – Adds an earthy, warm flavor that complements the beans.
- Salt and black pepper to taste – Adjust based on preference.
- Fresh parsley for garnish – Adds a final touch of freshness and color.
With these simple but flavorful ingredients, you’re ready to create a spicy, creamy, and comforting dish in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sauté the Base for Maximum Flavor
Building a flavorful base is key to making these harissa butter beans rich and aromatic.
- Heat the olive oil – Place a large skillet or pan over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
- Cook the garlic – Add 3 minced garlic cloves and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir continuously to prevent burning.
- Incorporate the seasonings – Stir in 1 tablespoon of tomato paste, 2 tablespoons of harissa paste, 1 teaspoon of paprika, and 1 teaspoon of cumin.
- Let the spices bloom – Cook everything for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently. This step helps release the deep, smoky flavors of the harissa and spices.
2. Simmer the Beans for a Creamy Texture
Now, it’s time to let the butter beans absorb all the bold flavors.
- Add the butter beans – Drain and rinse 2 cans (15 oz each) of butter beans, then add them to the pan.
- Pour in the broth – Stir in 1 cup of vegetable broth, making sure the beans are evenly coated in the sauce.
- Simmer to perfection – Reduce the heat to low and let the beans simmer for 10-15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Adjust consistency – If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of extra broth or water.
3. Finish with Freshness & Serve
To balance the richness of the dish, a final touch of acidity and freshness is key.
- Add lemon juice – Squeeze in 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors. If you enjoy citrusy flavors, you might also like this refreshing lemon tea recipe, a perfect pairing with the warm spices of harissa.
- Season to taste – Add salt and black pepper as needed.
- Garnish and serve – Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley and serve warm.
Your spicy, smoky, and creamy harissa butter beans are now ready to be enjoyed!
Now that you’ve mastered the basics, here are some useful tips to make your harissa butter beans even better.
Tips & Hacks
1. Make It Extra Creamy
- For an even richer, creamier texture, blend half of the butter beans before adding them back to the pan. This thickens the sauce while still leaving some whole beans for texture.
2. Adjust the Spice Level
- If you love extra heat, add an extra tablespoon of harissa paste or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- For a milder version, use just 1 tablespoon of harissa and increase the paprika for a smoky, less spicy alternative.
3. Turn It Into a Stew
- Want a heartier meal? Add diced tomatoes and an extra ½ cup of vegetable broth to transform this dish into a comforting stew.
4. Pair It with the Right Sides
- These harissa butter beans taste amazing with:
- Crusty bread – Perfect for soaking up the flavorful sauce.
- Steamed rice or couscous – A great way to make it a complete meal. For an even better pairing, try this Moroccan Couscous recipe, packed with aromatic spices that perfectly complement the harissa butter beans.
- Grilled meats or roasted vegetables – Adds contrast and texture.
5. Meal Prep & Storage Tips
- Make ahead: this dish keeps well and its flavors become even richer the following day.
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat slowly on the stovetop, keeping the heat low and adding a small amount of broth if the sauce becomes too thick.
Nutrition Score (Per Serving)
This harissa butter beans recipe is not only flavorful but also nutritious and satisfying. Here’s an approximate breakdown per serving:
- Calories: ~280 kcal
- Protein: 12g
- Fats: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
Since this dish is high in plant-based protein and fiber, it keeps you feeling full and energized. The healthy fats from olive oil and the antioxidant-rich spices make it a well-balanced meal.
Still have questions? Here are some common FAQs to help you perfect this dish.
Print
The Best Harissa Butter Beans Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Spicy, smoky, and creamy, these harissa butter beans come together in under 30 minutes for a hearty meal or flavorful side. Serve with crusty bread, rice, or roasted vegetables for a satisfying, plant-based dish.
Ingredients
- 2 cans (15 oz each) butter beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 tablespoons harissa paste (adjust for spice preference)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Sauté the Base: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Build Flavor: Stir in tomato paste, harissa paste, paprika, and cumin. Cook for 2 minutes to enhance the smoky flavors.
- Simmer the Beans: Add drained butter beans and pour in the vegetable broth. Stir well and let simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of broth.
- Finish & Serve: Stir in lemon juice, season with salt and black pepper, and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve warm with bread, rice, or roasted vegetables.
Notes
Creamier Texture: For a thicker, more velvety sauce, blend half the beans before adding them back to the pan. This creates a rich, stew-like consistency while keeping some whole beans for texture.
Mild Version: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the harissa to 1 tablespoon and increase the paprika for a smoky depth without too much heat. You can also stir in a spoonful of yogurt or coconut cream for a creamy, cooling contrast.
Extra Heat: Love spicy food? Add an extra tablespoon of harissa paste or a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
Turn It into a Stew: For a heartier meal, add a can of diced tomatoes and an extra ½ cup of vegetable broth. Simmer for 10 more minutes to develop deeper flavors.
Best Serving Ideas: Enjoy with crusty bread, pita, or flatbread for dipping. Serve over couscous, quinoa, or rice for a filling meal, or pair with grilled meats and roasted vegetables for added texture.
Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, portion into containers and store for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: North African, Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Per Serving
- Calories: ~280
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Protein: 12g
Keywords: harissa butter beans, spicy butter beans, easy vegan dinner, smoky butter beans, plant-based protein
FAQs: Harissa Butter Beans
1. How to make harissa butter beans?
Making harissa butter beans is easy and takes less than 30 minutes:
- Sauté garlic in olive oil, then stir in harissa paste, tomato paste, and spices.
- Add butter beans and vegetable broth, then let everything simmer.
- Finish with lemon juice and fresh parsley for a bright, fresh flavor.
2. What is harissa flavor?
Harissa has a spicy, smoky, and slightly tangy flavor, thanks to its blend of roasted chili peppers, garlic, and warm spices. It adds depth and heat to any dish without overpowering the other ingredients.
3. What are butter beans called in America?
Butter beans are known as lima beans in the United States. They have a creamy texture and a mild, slightly nutty flavor, making them perfect for rich, saucy dishes like this one.
4. What to serve with harissa butter beans?
Harissa butter beans are versatile and pair well with:
- Crusty bread or pita – Perfect for dipping.
- Couscous or rice – Helps absorb the flavorful sauce.
- Grilled meats or roasted vegetables – Adds texture and balance.
Now that you know everything about harissa butter beans, it’s time to give this recipe a try and enjoy its bold flavors.
Conclusion
Harissa butter beans are a quick, flavorful, and satisfying dish that delivers a perfect balance of spice, smokiness, and creaminess. Whether you serve them as a main meal, side dish, or dip, they’re guaranteed to be a hit. Plus, with just a few pantry staples, you can create a dish that feels both comforting and exciting in under 30 minutes.
The best part? This recipe is completely customizable. Want it creamier? Blend some of the beans. Prefer a milder version? Use less harissa and more paprika. Need a heartier meal? Add diced tomatoes and extra broth for a stew-like consistency.
Now it’s your turn to try these delicious harissa butter beans! Let me know how you serve yours, and feel free to experiment with different variations. If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to share it with friends and family!