Moroccan Harira Soup Recipe

Gather around the warmth of your kitchen with a hearty bowl of Moroccan Harira Soup. This dish is a beloved staple in Moroccan cuisine, often enjoyed during the holy month of Ramadan to break the fast. What makes Harira truly special is its depth of flavor, the rich combination of lentils, chickpeas, and an enticing blend of North African spices. This soup not only nourishes the body but also brings families together, creating cherished memories around the dinner table. Let’s dive into this comforting, aromatic recipe that will surely become a family favorite in your home.

Recipe Summary

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Skill Level: Intermediate

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 large carrots, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1/2 cup lentils, rinsed
• 1/2 cup dried chickpeas, soaked overnight and drained
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 6 cups vegetable broth
• Salt to taste
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 lemon, cut into wedges for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the diced celery and carrots, cooking for an additional 5 minutes until they begin to soften.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
4. Add all the ground spices (ginger, cumin, cinnamon, turmeric, coriander, paprika, black pepper, and cayenne pepper) and stir for about 1-2 minutes to release their aromas.
5. Add the rinsed lentils, soaked chickpeas, and crushed tomatoes to the pot, stirring well to combine.
6. Pour in the vegetable broth, bringing the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 1 hour, or until the chickpeas and lentils are tender.
7. Season with salt to taste. Stir in the chopped fresh cilantro just before serving.
8. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with a wedge of lemon. Enjoy warm!

Helpful Tips

• If you’re short on time, use canned chickpeas instead of dried. Just drain and rinse them before adding to the pot.
• The cayenne pepper is optional and can be adjusted according to your heat preference.
• Harira soup can also be made in a pressure cooker to significantly reduce cooking time.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Simply reheat on the stove or in a microwave before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have fresh cilantro on hand, parsley can be a great substitute. Vegetable broth can be swapped with chicken broth if you’re not adhering to a vegetarian diet.

Pairings

Pair this Moroccan Harira Soup with crusty bread or pita for a complete and satisfying meal. A side of mixed olives or a fresh cucumber salad can also complement the soup beautifully. For a refreshing drink, try a traditional Moroccan mint tea.

Here at Zynahz, we believe that food is not just about sustenance; it’s about celebrating the love and creativity in every meal. We invite you to try this Moroccan Harira Soup Recipe at home and share your culinary journey with us. Spread the warmth and joy of cooking with your friends and family by sharing this recipe. Don’t forget to explore more delightful recipes on Zynahz, follow us on social media, and sign up for our newsletter for the latest updates and inspiration. Happy cooking!