Harissa Chickpeas with Whipped Feta: A Culinary Delight

As a culinary enthusiast, I’ve always been fascinated by the magic that simple ingredients can create. This recipe of Harissa Chickpeas with Whipped Feta is a testament to that magic. It’s unique because it brings together the heat of Harissa and the creaminess of whipped Feta in a delightful dance of flavors. Trust me, I’ll make this recipe so easy to follow that you’ll be a master of it in no time. And once you try it, you’ll be convinced of its deliciousness!

Prep time: 5 mins | Cooking time: 10 mins | Total time: 15 mins

Ingredients

• Whipped Feta:
  • One 4–6 oz. container of feta
  • A knob of cream cheese or a spoonful Greek yogurt
  • 1 small clove garlic
• Harissa Chickpeas:
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2–3 cloves garlic
  • 1–2 tablespoons harissa paste (2 tablespoons would be medium spicy)
  • One 14-ounce can fire-roasted crushed tomatoes
  • Two 14-ounce cans chickpeas, rinsed and drained
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • Squeeze of lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional)
  • 1/4 cup golden raisins (optional but sweet and yummy)
• Extras:
  • 4 pieces pita or naan
  • 1 diced cucumber
  • 1 lemon, cut into wedges
  • 1/2 cup olives

Instructions

1. Make the Whipped Feta: In a small chopper or food processor, pulse the feta, cream cheese, and garlic until mostly smooth and creamy and “whipped.” Add a little water as needed to loosen it up.
2. Make the Chickpeas: Add the olive oil to a pan over medium high heat. Add garlic and harissa paste; sauté for 1-2 minutes. Add tomatoes and chickpeas. Mix and simmer for 4-5 minutes. Using a potato masher or similar tool, mash some of the chickpeas so the mixture becomes a little more creamy. Season with lemon juice, salt, and parsley. Stir in the raisins. Add a little bit of water if you need to to keep everything nice and saucy.

To serve, place the Harissa chickpeas on a plate with your favorite sides. Top with whipped feta and anything else you like. Enjoy this culinary delight!