Mizrahi Harissa: Spicy and Flavorful Middle Eastern Delight

Ingredients

In the Mizrahi Jewish adaptation of Harissa, the original African dish is enhanced with the addition of regional spices and ingredients such as turmeric, cumin, and coriander. These spices add a distinct Middle Eastern flavor profile to the dish, elevating its taste and aroma. Additionally, the Mizrahi version often includes chicken as a key ingredient, providing a rich and savory element to the dish. We alse have the original recipe for Harissa, so you can check it out.

• 1 cup (200g) cracked wheat 1 cup (200g) cracked wheat
• 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons ground turmeric 2 teaspoons ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste) 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• Salt, to taste Salt, to taste
• 6 cups (1.4L) chicken broth 6 cups (1.4L) chicken broth
• Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
• Lemon wedges, for serving Lemon wedges, for serving

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 3g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 50g, 4g
• Protein: 35g
• Fiber: 8g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Rinse the cracked wheat under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain and set aside.
2. 2.
   In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until golden brown.
3. 3.
   Add the chicken pieces to the pot and cook until browned on all sides.
4. 4.
   Stir in the turmeric, cumin, coriander, paprika, cayenne pepper, and salt. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to toast the spices and enhance their flavors.
5. 5.
   Add the cracked wheat and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot.
6. 6.
   Simmer the mixture for about 2 hours, or until the wheat is tender and the chicken is cooked through and tender.
7. 7.
   Remove the chicken pieces from the pot and shred the meat using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir to combine.
8. 8.
   Adjust the seasoning if needed. Cook for an additional 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
9. 9.
   Serve the Mizrahi Harissa hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and accompanied by lemon wedges for squeezing over the dish.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Cracked wheat — Make sure to rinse the cracked wheat thoroughly to remove any impurities before cooking.
• Chicken — For the best flavor and texture, use bone-in chicken pieces such as thighs or drumsticks. Remove the skin if desired for a leaner dish.

Tips & Tricks

• To add an extra layer of flavor, you can sauté the cracked wheat in a dry pan for a few minutes before rinsing it.
• Adjust the level of spiciness by increasing or decreasing the amount of cayenne pepper according to your preference.
• For a richer flavor, you can use homemade chicken broth instead of store-bought.
• Mizrahi Harissa tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together, so consider making it in advance.
• Serve Mizrahi Harissa with a dollop of yogurt on top for a creamy contrast to the spiciness.

Serving advice

Mizrahi Harissa is traditionally served as a main course. It can be enjoyed on its own or accompanied by fresh bread, such as pita or challah, for dipping. Serve it with a side of pickled vegetables, such as pickled cucumbers or turnips, to balance the spiciness of the dish. Don't forget to squeeze fresh lemon juice over the Harissa for a burst of tangy flavor.

Presentation advice

To present Mizrahi Harissa beautifully, ladle it into individual bowls and garnish each serving with a sprinkle of fresh chopped cilantro. Serve the dish piping hot to showcase its vibrant colors and enticing aroma. Pair it with warm, freshly baked bread to create an inviting and comforting presentation.