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Harissa spiced lamb with cannellini beans is a hearty, high-protein, Mediterranean-inspired dish full of bold flavors. Tender lamb is coated in aromatic harissa and roasted or pan-seared to perfection, then served with creamy cannellini beans simmered with garlic, tomatoes, and herbs. This dish is warming, satisfying, and packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients.
Ingredients
For the Harissa Spiced Lamb
- Lamb leg steaks or lamb shoulder, trimmed – 500 grams, cut into medallions or chunks
- Harissa paste – 2 tablespoons (adjust to spice preference)
- Olive oil – 1 tablespoon
- Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
- Lemon juice – 1 tablespoon
- Salt – ½ teaspoon
- Black pepper – ¼ teaspoon
For the Cannellini Beans
- Cannellini beans – 1 can (400 grams), drained and rinsed (or 1½ cups cooked)
- Olive oil – 1 tablespoon
- Onion – 1 small, finely chopped
- Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
- Cherry tomatoes – 1 cup, halved (or 1 can chopped tomatoes)
- Vegetable or chicken stock – ½ cup
- Smoked paprika – ½ teaspoon
- Fresh thyme – 1 teaspoon, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- Salt – ½ teaspoon
- Black pepper – ¼ teaspoon
- Fresh parsley – 2 tablespoons, chopped for garnish
Optional Sides
- Steamed green vegetables – broccoli, green beans, or zucchini
- Roasted potatoes or sweet potatoes
- Couscous or quinoa
Equipment Needed
- Frying pan or skillet, or ovenproof pan
- Knife and chopping board
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Mixing bowl
Preparation Method
Step 1: Marinate the Lamb
- In a bowl, combine harissa paste, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper.
- Add the lamb pieces and coat evenly.
- Cover and let marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the fridge for deeper flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Cannellini Beans
- Heat olive oil in a medium pan over medium heat.
- Sauté chopped onion and garlic for 3–4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Add cherry tomatoes and cook for 2–3 minutes until slightly softened.
- Stir in cannellini beans, stock, smoked paprika, and thyme.
- Simmer gently for 5–7 minutes until beans are heated through and sauce is slightly thickened.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Keep warm while cooking the lamb.
Step 3: Cook the Lamb
- Heat a heavy skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat.
- Add lamb pieces in a single layer, cooking for 3–4 minutes per side for medium-rare (or longer depending on thickness and desired doneness).
- Remove from heat and let rest for 2–3 minutes to retain juices.
Step 4: Serve
- Plate the cannellini beans as a bed on each plate.
- Arrange the harissa spiced lamb on top.
- Garnish with fresh parsley.
- Serve with optional sides such as steamed vegetables, roasted potatoes, or grains.
Tips and Variations
- Adjust the harissa quantity to control the spice level. Mild versions are available if preferred.
- For extra richness, add a splash of coconut milk or cream to the cannellini beans.
- Add roasted red peppers or spinach to the beans for additional texture and flavor.
- Leftover lamb can be sliced thinly and used in wraps, salads, or sandwiches.
- For a one-pan version, roast the lamb and beans together in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 20–25 minutes, stirring beans halfway through.
Nutritional Highlights
- High in protein from lamb and cannellini beans
- Good fiber content from beans
- Rich in iron, vitamins, and antioxidants from lamb, beans, and herbs
- Healthy fats from olive oil
