Description
Moroccan Harira is a traditional, hearty soup known for its rich flavors and comforting spices. This recipe combines tender diced beef or lamb with chickpeas, red lentils, and a fragrant blend of herbs and spices simmered in a tomato-based broth. Perfect for a nutritious and warming meal, Harira offers a taste of authentic Moroccan cuisine.
Ingredients
Scale
Soup Base
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Spices & Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
Main Ingredients
- 250g boneless beef or lamb, diced
- 1 cup canned chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- 1/2 cup red lentils, rinsed
- 2 cups canned crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 6 cups water or beef broth
Thickener and Finishing Touch
- 2 tablespoons flour (mixed with water to form a smooth paste)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
Instructions
- Heat the oil: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat to create a flavorful base for the soup.
- Sauté vegetables and herbs: Add finely chopped onions, celery, cilantro, and parsley to the pot. Cook and stir until they soften, releasing their aromas.
- Add spices: Stir in ground turmeric, ginger, cinnamon, black pepper, and salt. Cook the mixture until fragrant, ensuring the spices bloom and deepen their flavors.
- Brown the meat: Add the diced beef or lamb into the pot and cook lightly until it browns on all sides, sealing in the flavor.
- Combine main ingredients: Stir in tomatoes, tomato paste, chickpeas, red lentils, and pour in the water or beef broth. Increase heat to bring the soup to a boil.
- Simmer the soup: Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and cook uncovered for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the meat and lentils are tender and flavors meld together.
- Thicken the soup: Mix the flour with water until smooth, then stir this mixture into the soup. Continue simmering for another 5 minutes to thicken the broth.
- Add lemon juice and adjust seasoning: Stir in fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors. Taste and adjust salt or spices if needed.
- Serve: Ladle the hot soup into bowls, garnish with extra fresh cilantro if desired, and serve with warm bread for a complete meal.
Notes
- Use beef broth instead of water for a richer flavor.
- Lamb can be used as an alternative to beef depending on preference.
- If gluten-free is required, substitute flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free thickener.
- For a vegetarian version, omit meat and use vegetable broth.
- This soup reheats well and can be made ahead for convenience.
