Harissa bil Djaj (Libyan Chicken Harissa)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
• 2 tomatoes, diced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon harissa paste
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground paprika
• ½ teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (adjust according to spice preference)
• ½ teaspoon ground coriander
• ½ teaspoon ground caraway seeds
• Salt to taste
• Pepper, to taste
• 4 cups water or chicken broth
• Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Ingredients for 80 servings (2.4 kg) · the original recipeShow how each ingredient was counted

Method

1. 1

   In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

   Stovetop
2. 2

   Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.

3. 3

   Add the chicken pieces to the pot and brown them on all sides.

4. 4

   Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, harissa paste, cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper, coriander, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the chicken with the spices.

5. 5

   Pour in the water or chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.

   Stovetop
6. 6

   Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a lid, and let simmer for about 1 hour, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.

   Stovetop
7. 7

   Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.

8. 8

   Serve the hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley. Accompany with bread or couscous to soak up the flavorful sauce.