When the summer sun begins to fade, I find myself yearning for vibrant flavors that can transport me to sun-drenched shores. That’s exactly how I discovered my latest obsession: Harissa Tofu with Herby Couscous. The first time I prepared this dish, I was captivated by the spice’s warmth mingling elegantly with the creamy tofu, creating a perfect dance on my palate. It’s not just a meal; it’s a celebration of hearty ingredients coming together for a bright and satisfying bite, ideal for a cozy weeknight dinner or an impressive gathering with friends.
What I adore most about this recipe is its versatility. The bold harissa sauce, sweetened ever-so-slightly with maple syrup, elevates the tofu while the herby couscous offers a refreshing counterpoint. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to break free from the cycle of bland meals and fast food fatigue. Trust me, once you dive into this dish, it will quickly become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Ready to ignite your taste buds? Let’s dive into making this delightful harissa tofu with herby couscous!
Why is Harissa Tofu with Herby Couscous irresistible?
Bold, Vibrant Flavors: The striking harissa brings a blast of heat, harmonizing beautifully with the creamy tofu and the lively herby couscous.
Quick and Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, this dish comes together in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Versatile Ingredients: Swap couscous for quinoa or rice, tailoring the recipe to fit your dietary needs.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish will impress with its flavorful profile.
Healthy Twist: Packed with nutritious ingredients like chickpeas, herbs, and spices, it’s a wholesome alternative to takeout.
Embrace the magic of homemade flavor with this dish, and revel in the satisfaction of a delightful meal!
Harissa Tofu with Herby Couscous Ingredients
For the Tofu
- Ready-pressed tofu – 280 g, provides the perfect canvas for absorbing the vibrant harissa flavor.
- Salt – approx. 1 tsp, adjust to taste for the ideal seasoning balance.
- Ground cumin (optional) – ½ tsp, offers a warm, earthy note that beautifully complements the harissa.
- Smoked paprika (optional) – ½ tsp, adds a subtle smokiness that deepens the overall flavor profile.
- Cornstarch – 2 tbsp + ½ tsp, creates a crispy coating during frying.
- Oil – for frying, choose a neutral oil to allow the harissa to shine.
For the Sauce
- Harissa paste – 30 ml, infuses the tofu with a bold, spicy flavor.
- Maple syrup – 30 ml, adds a hint of sweetness to balance the heat of the harissa.
- Lemon juice – 30 ml, brightens the dish and enhances the overall flavor.
- Vegan single cream – 80 ml, brings a creamy texture to the sauce.
- Ginger – 0.5″ finely minced, provides a fragrant kick that elevates the dish.
- Garlic – 1 clove finely minced, adds depth and aroma to the sauce.
For the Couscous
- Couscous – 135 g, or substitute with rice/quinoa for a gluten-free option.
- Olive oil – 15 ml, enriches the couscous with a lovely, fruity flavor.
- Spring onions/scallions – 2, finely sliced, introduce a fresh crunch and mild onion flavor.
- Canned chickpeas – 400 g, drained, enhances protein and adds heartiness to the meal.
- Mint and parsley – a large handful each, or use coriander for a fresh herbaceous touch.
- Lemon – zest and juice from 1 lemon, adds brightness and zest that ties the dish together.
- Salt and pepper – to taste, ensuring everything is perfectly seasoned.
Dive into this delightful recipe for Harissa Tofu with Herby Couscous and savor the deliciousness of homemade goodness!
How to Make Harissa Tofu with Herby Couscous
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Cut tofu: Begin by slicing the ready-pressed tofu into 2 cm cubes. If you’re using unpressed tofu, don’t forget to press it first to remove excess moisture.
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Marinate (optional): In a shallow dish, mix ½ of salt, warm water, ground cumin, and smoked paprika. Gently add the cubed tofu and stir to coat. Let it marinate while you prepare the couscous.
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Coat tofu: Sprinkle the cornstarch over the tofu cubes, ensuring each piece is well-coated. In a non-stick skillet, heat oil and fry the tofu until golden brown on all sides, about 8-10 minutes, or bake it at 200°C for 30 minutes until crispy.
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Prepare sauce: In a jug, combine harissa paste, maple syrup, lemon juice, vegan cream, and remaining salt. In a small bowl, mix ½ tsp cornstarch with 1 tsp water to create a slurry.
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Cook aromatics: After frying the tofu, remove it from the skillet. Add a bit more oil, then sauté minced garlic and ginger over low heat until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Stir in the harissa sauce and the cornstarch slurry, allowing it to thicken before returning the tofu to the skillet and tossing gently to coat.
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Prepare couscous: In a bowl, combine couscous with ½ tsp salt. Pour 225 ml of boiling water over the couscous, cover with a plate, and let it sit undisturbed for about 5 minutes.
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Chop and zest: While the couscous cooks, finely slice the spring onions, pick mint and parsley leaves, and zest the lemon. Set these flavorful additions aside.
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Fluff couscous: After 5 minutes, uncover the couscous and fluff it gently with a fork. Allow it to cool for a few minutes.
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Mix ingredients: Once cooled, fold in the chickpeas, chopped spring onions, herbs, lemon zest, olive oil, and juice of half a lemon. Stir well, adjusting seasoning to your liking.
Optional: Garnish with extra fresh herbs for a vibrant finish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Harissa Tofu with Herby Couscous?
Elevate your meal experience by exploring these delightful pairings that complement vibrant flavors beautifully.
- Creamy Avocado Salad: A refreshing avocado salad topped with lime adds a smooth, creamy contrast to the spicy tofu.
- Garlic Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables coated in garlic and olive oil bring a delectable crunch and earthy flavor to your plate.
- Chickpea Hummus: Serve with warm pita bread or veggie sticks for a tasty appetizer that echoes the chickpeas in the couscous.
- Zesty Lemonade: A glass of homemade lemonade with fresh mint balances the heat with its refreshing sweetness.
- Spiced Carrot Cake: End your meal with a moist carrot cake spiced with cinnamon for a touch of sweetness that pairs nicely with the dish’s spice.
- Crisp Cucumber Raita: This cool, creamy yogurt dip with grated cucumber will help mellow the heat of the harissa, creating a well-rounded meal.
- Simple Green Beans: Sautéed green beans with a squeeze of lemon offer a vibrant, tender side that enhances the freshness of the herby couscous.
Tips for the Best Harissa Tofu with Herby Couscous
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Press Tofu First: Ensure the tofu is well-pressed to remove excess moisture. This helps achieve perfect crispiness when frying.
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Custom Spice Level: Adjust the amount of harissa paste to control the heat. Start with less, and add more if desired to suit your palate.
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Chickpea Variations: Feel free to swap chickpeas for other beans like black beans or white beans, depending on your preference and pantry staples.
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Herb Freshness Counts: Use fresh herbs like mint and parsley for the best flavor and fragrance. Dried herbs won’t deliver the same vibrant taste.
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Fluffing Couscous: Fluff the couscous gently to keep the grains separate; over-mixing can lead to a gummy texture that detracts from the dish’s appeal.
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Taste as You Go: Always adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and lemon juice at the end. The right balance enhances the entire dish, making the harissa tofu with herby couscous simply irresistible!
Make Ahead Options
These Harissa Tofu with Herby Couscous bowls are a dream for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the harissa-marinated tofu up to 24 hours in advance, simply coat it in cornstarch and refrigerate it until you’re ready to fry or bake. Additionally, the herby couscous can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just fluff it with a fork before serving, and toss in the chickpeas, herbs, and lemon right before you dig in. By pre-prepping these components, you’ll achieve that fresh, vibrant flavor while saving precious time on hectic weeknights. Trust me, your future self will thank you!
How to Store and Freeze Harissa Tofu with Herby Couscous
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors fresh and vibrant while preserving the tofu’s texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked harissa tofu separately from the herby couscous. It can be kept in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then warm tofu gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. Fluff couscous with a fork before serving to restore its texture.
Airtight Storage: Ensure both components are separately wrapped or in airtight containers to avoid freezer burn and to maintain the delicious flavors of the harissa tofu with herby couscous.
Harissa Tofu with Herby Couscous Variations
Feel free to get adventurous and customize this dish to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute couscous with quinoa or rice for a gluten-free version while still enjoying the same vibrant flavors.
- Spicy Boost: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of sriracha to the harissa sauce for an extra kick of heat that will excite your taste buds!
- Creamy Twist: Swap the vegan single cream for coconut cream for a rich, tropical twist that enhances the creamy texture and flavor.
- Protein Packed: Replace chickpeas with black beans or lentils to diversify the protein source while still keeping it hearty and nutritious.
- Roasted Veggies: Toss in roasted bell peppers, zucchini, or sweet potatoes with the couscous for added flavor, color, and texture. They complement the dish beautifully!
- Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like basil or dill, mixing fresh and dried varieties to create a unique flavor profile that excites every bite.
- Citrus Zest: Mix in some orange zest for a fresh twist on the usual lemon brightness, giving the couscous a fragrant lift.
- Nutty Crunch: Top with toasted almonds or walnuts for a satisfying crunch that adds delightful texture and nutty flavors to the meal.
Let your creativity flourish, and enjoy the myriad of ways to make this dish your very own!
Harissa Tofu with Herby Couscous Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best tofu for this recipe?
Absolutely! I recommend using ready-pressed tofu if possible, as it provides a firmer texture that absorbs flavors beautifully. If using unpressed tofu, make sure to press it well to remove excess moisture; this usually takes about 15-20 minutes under a heavy object.
How should I store leftovers of Harissa Tofu with Herby Couscous?
Very! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to separate the tofu from the couscous if you want to keep the couscous fluffy and prevent sogginess.
Can I freeze Harissa Tofu with Herby Couscous?
Absolutely! To freeze, place the cooked harissa tofu and herby couscous in separate airtight containers. The tofu can be kept in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop.
What if my tofu isn’t getting crispy?
No worries! If your tofu isn’t crispy enough, here are a few tips: ensure it’s well-pressed before cooking, coat it evenly in cornstarch, and make sure your oil is hot before adding the tofu. Frying in batches can also help; overcrowding the pan can lead to steaming instead of frying, which affects crispiness.
Are there any dietary considerations I need to be aware of?
Of course! This recipe is naturally vegan, making it a great option for plant-based diets. However, if you’re serving it to someone with allergies, keep in mind that it contains tofu, chickpeas, and other ingredients that may trigger sensitivities. Also, adjust the harissa based on individual spice tolerance; not everyone enjoys the same level of heat.
How can I adjust the flavor if it’s too spicy?
Very! If you find the harissa tofu too spicy, you can balance the heat with a bit more maple syrup or lemon juice in the sauce. Alternatively, serve it with extra couscous on the side to tone down the spice while still enjoying the delicious flavors.
Harissa Tofu with Herby Couscous for Flavorful Dinner Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by slicing the ready-pressed tofu into 2 cm cubes.
- In a shallow dish, mix ½ of salt, warm water, ground cumin, and smoked paprika. Gently add the cubed tofu and stir to coat. Let it marinate.
- Sprinkle the cornstarch over the tofu cubes and coat evenly. In a non-stick skillet, heat oil and fry the tofu until golden brown, about 8-10 minutes.
- In a jug, combine harissa paste, maple syrup, lemon juice, vegan cream, and remaining salt. Prepare a cornstarch slurry.
- Sauté minced garlic and ginger over low heat until fragrant. Stir in the harissa sauce and slurry, then add the cooked tofu.
- In a bowl, combine couscous with ½ tsp salt and pour boiling water over it. Cover and let it sit for about 5 minutes.
- Finely slice the spring onions, pick mint and parsley leaves, and zest the lemon.
- Uncover the couscous and fluff gently with a fork.
- Fold in chickpeas, chopped spring onions, herbs, lemon zest, olive oil, and the juice of half a lemon. Adjust seasoning.