Creamy Harissa Broth with Rice

Creamy Harissa Broth with Rice is a comforting, one-bowl meal featuring fragrant rice topped with a spicy, North African-inspired broth made with harissa, tender potatoes, green beans, and a swirl of cream. It’s rich, warming, and packed with flavor and texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• A perfect blend of spice and creaminess
• Hearty and satisfying, with tender vegetables and fluffy rice
• Simple, wholesome ingredients
• Vegetarian and easily made vegan or gluten-free

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 cup long-grain rice (like basmati or jasmine)
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 tablespoon neutral oil
• 1 shallot, thinly sliced
• 1½ pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, halved
• 5–6 garlic cloves, minced
• 6 cups vegetable broth or water
• 2 tablespoons harissa paste or powder (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Optional: pinch of cayenne pepper
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• ¼ cup heavy cream or coconut cream
• 10 oz green beans, trimmed
• Optional garnish: chopped parsley, microgreens

Directions

1. Cook rice with water or broth and a bit of butter until fluffy. Set aside and keep warm.
2. In a large pot, heat oil and sauté the shallot until soft.
3. Add potatoes, season with salt and pepper, and cook for a few minutes.
4. Add butter and garlic, cooking until fragrant.
5. Stir in vegetable broth, harissa, paprika, and cayenne. Simmer until potatoes are tender (about 20 minutes).
6. Add cream and green beans, simmer another 5–7 minutes until beans are tender-crisp.
7. Serve by spooning rice into bowls and ladling broth and vegetables over the top. Garnish as desired.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4–5
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 40 minutes
• Total time: 50 minutes

Variations

• Use sweet potatoes or turnips instead of Yukon Golds
• Swap green beans for broccoli, peas, or spinach
• Make it vegan with coconut cream and plant-based butter
• Add chickpeas or tofu for extra protein

storage/reheating

• Store rice and broth separately in the fridge for up to 3 days
• Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to loosen
• Not recommended for freezing due to cream content

FAQs

What is harissa?

Harissa is a North African chili paste or powder made from roasted red peppers, garlic, spices, and herbs.

Can I use harissa powder instead of paste?

Yes, just adjust the quantity to taste and blend it into the broth for smoothness.

Is this dish very spicy?

It has a gentle heat; adjust harissa and cayenne for more or less spice.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, but add the cream and green beans just before serving for the best texture.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, as long as your broth is certified gluten-free.

Can I use a different type of rice?

Absolutely—brown rice, jasmine, or even wild rice work well.

How can I thicken the broth?

Simmer longer or add a small amount of cornstarch slurry.

What can I serve with this?

A green salad or flatbread pairs well with the hearty broth and rice.

Can I use milk instead of cream?

Yes, but the broth will be thinner. Use full-fat milk for better results.

How do I store leftovers?

Keep rice and broth separate in airtight containers in the fridge.

Conclusion

Creamy Harissa Broth with Rice brings together spice, creaminess, and heartiness in a soul-warming bowl. Whether you’re seeking comfort food or a flavorful vegetarian option, this dish delivers bold flavors and satisfying textures perfect for cozy evenings or weekday meals.

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