If you’re craving something hearty, full of flavour, and simple to make, these creamy harissa butter beans are the perfect answer. This plant-based dish combines the richness of butter beans with the smoky, spicy kick of harissa for a meal that’s as comforting as it is bold. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch, this recipe comes together in under 30 minutes and packs a serious punch of flavour. Serve it with crusty bread, flatbread or over rice, and you’ve got yourself a new go-to recipe that will keep everyone coming back for more!
Can I use other types of beans instead of butter beans?
Yes, you can substitute butter beans with other beans like cannellini, great northern, or even chickpeas, though the texture may vary slightly. Butter beans work really well in this because of how creamy and large they are, so it’s my personal preference to use them over another bean in this recipe.
Is this recipe spicy?
Harissa can range from mildly spicy to very hot depending on the brand. You can adjust the heat by using less harissa or opting for a milder version if you prefer less heat. You might even want to make your own at home. Harissa is fairly simple to make if you have the right ingredients, like roasted peppers, olive oil, garlic, and spices. Homemade harissa allows you to control the spice level and flavour. However, this recipe is on the milder side when it comes to spice level, making it a great all-rounder.
What can I use as a substitute for harissa?
Harissa is commonly available in most grocery stores, typically in the international foods aisle. You can also find it online or in specialty food stores. But if you don’t have harissa and can’t find it, you can substitute it with a mixture of chilli paste or sauce (like Sriracha) and smoked paprika or liquid smoke for a similar spicy and smoky flavour.
More butter bean recipes:
Smokey Carrot and Butter Bean Dip
Whole Roasted Harissa Cauliflower
Creamy Harissa Butter Beans
Course: Recipes3
servings10
minutes10
minutes20
minutesIf you’re after a hearty, plant-based dish that is packed with flavour, this Creamy Harissa Butter Beans recipe is perfect for you!
Ingredients
800 grams Butter Beans, rinsed and drained
1 Brown Onion
1 cup Swiss Chard or Spinach
1 tsp Celtic Sea Salt
2 Garlic Cloves
2 tbsp Harissa Paste
1 tbsp Olive Oil
1 tsp Monk Fruit Sugar or Coconut Sugar
1 tsp Balsamic Vinegar
1/4 cup Coconut Cream or Yoghurt
1 cup Passata
1/2 cup Water
Chopped Parsley, to garnish
Directions
- Heat a large pan over medium heat with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add thinly sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Add balsamic vinegar and sugar. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 10 minutes or until the onions are deeply golden and caramelised. At the 8 minute mark, add in minced garlic.
- Add rinsed and drained butter beans, harissa paste, passata and the remaining salt. Stir and add water.
- Add in chopped spinach or swiss chard and cook off for 2 minutes.
- To serve, drizzle over coconut cream and chopped parsley or coriander. This pairs nicely with toast, flatbread or rice.
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