Harira is a traditional Moroccan soup often enjoyed during Ramadan, but it’s also a comforting meal year-round. It’s packed with lentils, chickpeas, tomatoes, and fragrant spices, making it hearty and nourishing.
Ingredients
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Base Ingredients:
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2 tbsp olive oil
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1 large onion, finely chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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2 celery stalks, finely chopped
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2 large carrots, diced
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1 cup tomatoes, pureed (or canned tomatoes)
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1 tbsp tomato paste
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6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
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1 cup prepared chickpeas (if using canned, drain and rinse first)
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½ cup brown or green lentils
Spices & Herbs:
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1 tsp ground cumin
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1 tsp ground turmeric
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1 tsp ground cinnamon
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½ tsp ground ginger
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½ tsp paprika
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½ tsp black pepper
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Salt to taste
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¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
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¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
Thickening & Garnish:
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¼ cup flour mixed with ½ cup water (for thickening, optional)
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Juice of 1 lemon
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Extra cilantro and parsley for garnish
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Execution
✅ For Extra Flavor:
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Add a pinch of saffron for a richer Moroccan touch.
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If you like a spicy kick, sprinkle in some harissa or red chili flakes.
✅ Protein Boost:
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Some variations include small pieces of lamb or beef for added depth.
✅ Make It Gluten-Free:
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Skip the flour thickener or use cornstarch mixed with water instead.
✅ Storage:
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Harira keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days. You’ll love how well this freezes – just thaw when needed (up to 3 months)!
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Prepare the
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Sauté Aromatics
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Over medium heat, warm the oil in a large pot.
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Add onions and cook until soft. Stir in garlic, celery, and carrots. Cook for 3–4 minutes until fragrant.
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Add Tomatoes & Spices
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Stir in tomato paste and pureed tomatoes. Stir over heat for 5 minutes as the tomatoes break down completely.
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Add cumin, turmeric, cinnamon, ginger, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
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Cook Lentils & Chickpeas
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Pour in the broth, add lentils, and bring to a boil.
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Cover and simmer on low heat 30 minutes.
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Add Chickpeas & Herbs
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Stir in the chickpeas, cilantro, and parsley. Let it cook for another 10 minutes.
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Thicken the Soup (Optional)
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Mix the flour with water until smooth, then slowly pour into the soup while stirring continuously.
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Simmer 5-10 min until desired thickness.
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Final Touches
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Brighten each bite with a hint of lemon juice.
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Adjust seasoning as needed.
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Serve
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Ladle into bowls, garnish with extra cilantro and parsley, and serve warm with crusty bread or dates on the side.
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Additional tips
