Authentic Moroccan Harira Soup: A Hearty Staple Recipe

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
  • 2 carrots, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup dried lentils, rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup chickpeas, soaked overnight and drained
  • 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 6 cups vegetable broth
  • 1/2 cup uncooked long grain rice
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • Salt to taste

Steps and instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add the onion, celery, and carrots. Cook until the vegetables are softened.
  3. Add the garlic, turmeric, cinnamon, ginger, and black pepper. Cook for another minute until the spices are fragrant.
  4. Add the lentils, chickpeas, diced tomatoes, parsley, cilantro, and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil.
  5. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 40 minutes until the lentils and chickpeas are tender.
  6. Add the rice to the pot and stir well. Continue to simmer the soup until the rice is cooked, about 20 minutes.
  7. Stir in the lemon juice and add salt to taste.
  8. Serve the harira hot, garnished with additional parsley or cilantro if desired.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Add diced cooked chicken or beef for a meaty version.
  • Replace the lentils with red lentils or split peas for a different texture.
  • Include diced potatoes or sweet potatoes for added heartiness.
  • Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving for a burst of acidity.
  • Sprinkle some toasted almonds or pine nuts on top for added crunch.
  • If you prefer a spicier flavor, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some red pepper flakes.
  • For a creamier consistency, stir in a dollop of Greek yogurt or coconut milk before serving.
  • Top each serving with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a sprinkle of za'atar spice blend.
  • Experiment with different herbs and spices such as cumin, coriander, or paprika to customize the flavor profile.

Recipe overview

Harira is a hearty and nutritious soup that is a staple of Moroccan cuisine. This recipe combines protein-rich lentils and chickpeas with a medley of vegetables and aromatic spices to create a comforting dish that is full of flavor. With a harmonious blend of turmeric, cinnamon, and ginger, this soup is as fragrant as it is delicious. The addition of long grain rice makes it a satisfying meal, while a splash of lemon juice brings a touch of brightness. This recipe is straightforward and easy to follow, allowing both novice and experienced cooks to bring a taste of Morocco to their kitchen. Whether you're looking for a warming winter dinner or a healthy option for meal prep, this Harira recipe is a wonderful choice.

Common questions

  1. Can I use canned lentils and chickpeas instead of dried ones? No, it is recommended to use dried lentils and soaked chickpeas for this recipe as they provide a better texture and flavor.
  2. Can I use ground spices instead of whole spices? Yes, you can use ground spices instead of whole spices. However, adjust the quantities according to your taste as ground spices tend to be more potent.
  3. Can I substitute vegetable broth with chicken broth? Yes, you can substitute vegetable broth with chicken broth if you prefer a non-vegetarian version. It will alter the flavor slightly.
  4. Can I freeze the leftover harira? Yes, you can freeze the leftover harira in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat it on the stove before serving.
  5. Can I add other vegetables to the harira? Certainly! You can add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to the harira to customize it according to your preference.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Large pot - A large pot is required to cook the soup and accommodate all the ingredients.
  • Wooden spoon - A wooden spoon is helpful for stirring the soup without scratching the pot.
  • Soup ladle - A soup ladle is useful for serving the hot harira into bowls.
  • Soup bowls - Soup bowls are needed to serve the harira.
  • Garnish bowls - Optional, but helpful for holding additional parsley or cilantro for garnishing.
  • Serving spoons - Serving spoons are needed for garnishing the harira or adding additional toppings.
  • Lemon squeezer - If desired, a lemon squeezer can be used to extract juice from fresh lemons.

Origin stories

Harira is a beloved dish that hails from the dazzling lands of Morocco. This heartwarming soup, heavy with lentils, chickpeas, and a tantalizing blend of spices, traditionally marks the end of daily fasting during the holy month of Ramadan. It is said that harira, with its dense and nourishing ingredients, helps restore energy after a long day of fasting. The soup, as diverse as Morocco itself, has many variations, from family to family, region to region, but the spirit of communal sharing and the soulful, comforting warmth it brings remains a constant. It's more than a dish, harira is a cherished culinary ritual, steeped in cultural significance and love.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.