Name: Beetroot Stew With Harissa Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 200 g Beetroot, including stems and leaves; 100 g Carrots; 70 g Baby Potatoes; 50 g Onions; 100 g Plum tomatoes; 5 g Garlic (one clove); 1 tsp Rose harissa; 1 Bay Leaf; 1 tsp Coriander seeds; 6 Peppercorns; 1 tsp Salt; 500 ml Vegetable Stock; 1 tbsp Olive Oil; 2 tbsp Vegan Yoghurt; 50 g Crispy chickpeas (boiled chickpeas mixed with oil and cumin powder, then roasted)

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 2 reviews

If you’re craving something vibrant, hearty, and packed with layers of flavor, this Beetroot Stew With Harissa Recipe is an absolute must-try. The rich earthiness of fresh beetroot combined with the warm, smoky heat from rose harissa delivers a stew that is as comforting as it is exciting. It’s a colorful celebration of simple, wholesome ingredients working beautifully together, making it perfect to scoop up after a long day or share with friends at your next dinner gathering.

Ingredients You'll Need

A large round light yellow pot with green handles sits on a white marbled wooden surface, containing a thin layer of light golden oil. Scattered over the oil are small pieces of finely chopped red onion and a single dark green bay leaf, creating a mix of light purple, green, and black dots across the bottom of the pot. The inside walls of the pot show slight browning from cooking. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this dish lies in its straightforward yet essential ingredients, each one contributing to the stew’s unforgettable flavor, texture, and gorgeous deep red hue. From the tender baby potatoes to the spicy depth of harissa, every element plays its part.

200 g Beetroot, including stems and leaves: Provides the stew’s signature earthy flavor and vibrant color, while the stems add freshness.
100 g Carrots: Adds natural sweetness and a lovely texture contrast to the beetroot.
70 g Baby Potatoes: Soft and comforting, these soak up the flavors beautifully.
50 g Onions: Creates a flavorful base when sautéed gently.
5 g Garlic (one clove): Adds savory depth and aroma.
1 teaspoon Rose harissa: Brings smoky warmth and subtle spice to elevate the stew.
500 ml Vegetable Stock: The stew’s liquid foundation, boosting umami without overpowering.
1 tablespoon Olive Oil: For sautéing and bringing everything together.
1 Bay Leaf: Infuses gentle herbal notes that enhance the overall complexity.
100 g Plum tomatoes: Adds slight acidity and sweetness, balancing the earthiness.
1 teaspoon Coriander seeds: Toasted for a subtly citrusy spice kick.
6 Peppercorns: For a mild heat and aromatic depth.
1 teaspoon Salt: Essential for balancing flavors.
2 tablespoon Vegan Yoghurt (optional): Adds creaminess and a cooling contrast.
50 g Crispy chickpeas (optional): Provides a crunchy texture that’s simply irresistible.

How to Make Beetroot Stew With Harissa Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Veggies

Start by finely chopping the onion and garlic to form the aromatic base. Peel the beetroot and cut it into quarters, don’t forget to chop the stems and leaves as well—they’ll brighten the stew. Cut the carrots into thin slices and halve the baby potatoes for even cooking. Roughly chop the plum tomatoes to release their juiciness later on.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

Heat the olive oil over medium heat in a sturdy pot. Toss in the bay leaf and peppercorns to warm up their fragrant oils. Then add the onions and garlic and sauté gently until they soften and turn translucent, filling your kitchen with that cozy aroma.

Step 3: Toast the Spices and Tomatoes

Next, sprinkle in the coriander seeds and stir them around for a minute to release their flavor. Add the chopped tomatoes and cook for about 2 minutes so they break down slightly, enriching the base of the stew with their natural sweetness and tang.

Step 4: Simmer the Beetroot

It’s time for the stars of the show! Add the beetroot quarters, vegetable stock, and salt. Bring everything to a rolling boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the pot. Let it cook for about 15 minutes until the beetroot is tender—you can test this by poking with a knife; it should slide in easily but still hold shape.

Step 5: Add Carrots and Potatoes

Stir in the sliced carrots and baby potatoes, continue simmering for another 10 minutes until both are cooked through and tender. This layering ensures textures remain distinct and satisfying in every spoonful.

Step 6: Finish with Stems and Harissa

Stir in the chopped beetroot stems and the rose harissa. Let the stew gently simmer uncovered for an extra 10 minutes on medium-low heat, allowing the spicy, floral harissa flavors to mingle and deepen beautifully.

Step 7: Prepare Crispy Chickpeas (Optional)

If you want to add extra crunch, toss boiled chickpeas with a splash of oil and your favorite spices such as cumin, then roast them in a 180ºC oven for about 10 minutes. These crispy chickpeas make a delightful topping that contrasts perfectly with the stew’s softness.

How to Serve Beetroot Stew With Harissa Recipe

A white speckled bowl filled with a dish made of multiple layers: the base layer is dark red cooked beetroot pieces with a smooth, slightly shiny texture; scattered on top are small, round, golden chickpeas adding a light crunchy look; white drizzle of creamy sauce flows among the beetroot and chickpeas, giving contrast; small bright green parsley leaves add color as garnish, all on a warm wooden surface with blurred bread and chickpeas in the background photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A dollop of creamy vegan yoghurt on top cuts through the stew’s warmth beautifully, adding a cooling richness. Pairing this with crunchy roasted chickpeas provides texture and makes every bite interesting and layered.

Side Dishes

This beetroot stew pairs wonderfully with warm, crusty bread for dipping or a fluffy couscous that soaks up all the saucy goodness. For a lighter side, a simple green salad with lemon dressing brightens the meal and balances the richness of the stew.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this stew in rustic bowls, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or coriander for color. For a stunning twist, add a swirl of harissa-infused oil on top or some toasted seeds for extra crunch. It’s a meal that looks as good as it tastes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover beetroot stew in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. The flavors mellow and deepen, making the next day’s meal even better, which is always a bonus.

Freezing

This stew freezes exceptionally well. Cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It will keep for up to three months and still taste vibrant when thawed and reheated.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Add a splash of water or stock if the stew has thickened too much. Avoid boiling once reheated to maintain the best texture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use canned beetroot instead of fresh?

While fresh beetroot adds the best flavor and texture, canned beetroot can work in a pinch. Just reduce the initial cooking time since canned beetroot is already cooked.

Is rose harissa very spicy?

Rose harissa has a moderate heat level with floral and smoky notes, making it flavorful without overwhelming the dish. You can adjust the quantity to suit your spice tolerance.

Can I make this stew gluten-free?

Absolutely! All the ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just be sure that your vegetable stock and any garnishes do not contain gluten additives.

What can I substitute for vegan yoghurt?

If you don’t have vegan yoghurt, a dollop of sour cream or a splash of coconut cream will provide similar creaminess and a cooling contrast to the stew.

How do I make the crispy chickpeas if I don’t have an oven?

You can toast chickpeas in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring often until they turn golden and crispy. This stovetop method is quick and just as delicious.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you give this Beetroot Stew With Harissa Recipe a go because it’s more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of simple ingredients coming alive with warmth and bold flavors. Once you try it, I promise it will become one of those dishes you reach for again and again, especially when you want something cozy but a little unexpected. Enjoy every vibrant spoonful!