Samin Nosrat's latest culinary revelations have set my taste buds ablaze - and not just because of the fiery harissa that permeates her recipes. The Iranian-American food writer and chef has a gift for distilling complex flavors into dishes that are both familiar and innovative, as showcased in her recipes for Stewy Chickpeas with Squash and Harissa.
Her use of harissa is a masterclass in subtlety, layering the North African pepper paste with garlic, coriander, caraway, and cumin to create a depth of flavor that elevates even the humblest ingredients. The result is a chicken dish so divine, it's no wonder friends devour the entire roast in one sitting.
But Nosrat's attention to detail goes beyond just seasoning - she understands that texture, too, plays a crucial role in balancing flavors. In her Stewy Harissa Chickpeas with Squash, the addition of golden raisins to the winter squash mixture adds a welcome pop of sweetness to offset the savory chickpeas and tangy harissa.
For those new to working with this enigmatic spice blend, Nosrat's recipes are an excellent starting point. By using mild harissa in her chicken recipe, she makes it accessible to cooks who may be intimidated by its intense flavor profile. Meanwhile, the use of tomato puree and ginger in both recipes serves as a gentle introduction to these flavors, allowing readers to ease into the world of North African cuisine.
Nosrat's commitment to preserving traditional methods while incorporating modern twists is evident throughout her work. In her Stewy Harissa Chickpeas with Squash recipe, for example, she combines cooked and drained chickpeas with winter squash, chicken stock, and a hint of sherry vinegar for a flavor profile that feels both ancient and fresh.
Ultimately, Nosrat's recipes are a testament to the power of food to bring people together. Whether you're cooking up her Stewy Chickpeas with Squash and Harissa or experimenting with more adventurous combinations, the end result will be a meal that leaves everyone at the table begging for more.
				
			Her use of harissa is a masterclass in subtlety, layering the North African pepper paste with garlic, coriander, caraway, and cumin to create a depth of flavor that elevates even the humblest ingredients. The result is a chicken dish so divine, it's no wonder friends devour the entire roast in one sitting.
But Nosrat's attention to detail goes beyond just seasoning - she understands that texture, too, plays a crucial role in balancing flavors. In her Stewy Harissa Chickpeas with Squash, the addition of golden raisins to the winter squash mixture adds a welcome pop of sweetness to offset the savory chickpeas and tangy harissa.
For those new to working with this enigmatic spice blend, Nosrat's recipes are an excellent starting point. By using mild harissa in her chicken recipe, she makes it accessible to cooks who may be intimidated by its intense flavor profile. Meanwhile, the use of tomato puree and ginger in both recipes serves as a gentle introduction to these flavors, allowing readers to ease into the world of North African cuisine.
Nosrat's commitment to preserving traditional methods while incorporating modern twists is evident throughout her work. In her Stewy Harissa Chickpeas with Squash recipe, for example, she combines cooked and drained chickpeas with winter squash, chicken stock, and a hint of sherry vinegar for a flavor profile that feels both ancient and fresh.
Ultimately, Nosrat's recipes are a testament to the power of food to bring people together. Whether you're cooking up her Stewy Chickpeas with Squash and Harissa or experimenting with more adventurous combinations, the end result will be a meal that leaves everyone at the table begging for more.