A naturopathic nutritionist's recipe for harissa orzo with butter beans has become a weekly staple for one writer, who has been making it for over a year. The dish, originally from Jess Shand's recipe in Olive magazine, is a one-pot wonder that combines smoky harissa, creamy butter beans, and orzo for a quick and satisfying dinner.
The appeal lies in the butter beans, which absorb the flavours of the sauce and add a satisfying texture. The writer admits to doubling the quantity of beans in the recipe, and notes that beans in general are enjoying a resurgence in popularity. Another favourite butter bean dish is Shelina Permaloo's Mauritian butter bean curry.
The dish is highly adaptable: spinach can replace cavolo nero, the amount of pepper can be adjusted, and feta can be swapped for another cheese or omitted. For protein, prawns, chicken, or tofu can be added. The dish works well for batch cooking and is ideal for those living alone, as it reduces washing up.
Orzo is praised for being satisfying without causing bloating, and the one-pot method allows the sauce to reduce and intensify the harissa's heat. The writer encourages creativity, calling the recipe a reliable base that can be customised to taste.
