Moroccan Harira Soup – A spiced tomato and lentil soup

Moroccan Harira Soup – A Spiced Tomato and Lentil Soup

Harira is a beloved Moroccan soup that embodies warmth, tradition, and rich flavors. Made with tomatoes, lentils, chickpeas, and aromatic spices, this hearty dish is often enjoyed during Ramadan as a nourishing way to break the fast. Its complex blend of herbs and slow-cooked ingredients creates a deeply satisfying and nutritious meal, perfect for any time of the year.

Harira: A Culinary Treasure with Many Names

Harira is widely recognized across North Africa and the Middle East, with regional variations that highlight unique cultural influences. It is commonly known by different names and slightly modified recipes in various regions:

North Africa:

• Morocco: Harira (traditional version with tomatoes, chickpeas, and lentils)
• Algeria: Jari (thicker, with lamb and semolina instead of flour)
• Tunisia: Lablabi (similar but made with chickpeas as the base)

Middle East:

• Egypt: Shorbet Adas (lentil-based soup with spices)
• Lebanon & Syria: Shorbat Hummus (a variation with chickpeas and vegetables)

This nourishing soup is often served with dates, bread (khobz or msemen), or chebakia (sesame honey pastries) during Ramadan but is also enjoyed year-round for its comforting and health-boosting properties.

Recipe Overview (Quick Facts Section)

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour
• Calories per Serving: 380 kcal
• Cooking Difficulty: Moderate
• Lifestyle Suitability & Specialty: Vegetarian (without meat), High-Protein, Traditional Moroccan Cuisine
• Countries Where the Meal is Popular: Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Libya, Egypt, France, Middle Eastern countries

Detailed Description

Harira is a rich, nourishing soup that brings together tomatoes, lentils, chickpeas, and warm Moroccan spices. It is commonly served during Ramadan, as well as in everyday Moroccan households throughout the year. Traditionally, lamb or beef is added for extra flavor, but vegetarian versions are also popular.

The soup is thickened with either flour, vermicelli noodles, or eggs, creating a velvety texture. Served with fresh bread, dates, or hard-boiled eggs, Harira is both filling and packed with nutrients.

If you’re looking for a flavorful, authentic Moroccan dish, this recipe allows you to experience the taste of North Africa right at home!

Ingredients (Serving for 4 People)

✅ Main Ingredients:
✔ 1 cup lentils (rinsed)
✔ ½ cup chickpeas (cooked or canned)
✔ 1 cup crushed tomatoes
✔ 1 onion (finely chopped)
✔ 2 cloves garlic (minced)
✔ ½ cup celery (chopped)
✔ ½ cup fresh coriander (chopped)
✔ ½ cup fresh parsley (chopped)

✅ Spices & Seasonings:
✔ 1 tsp cumin
✔ 1 tsp ground cinnamon
✔ 1 tsp ground turmeric
✔ ½ tsp black pepper
✔ ½ tsp paprika
✔ 1 tsp salt

✅ Liquids & Other Ingredients:
✔ 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
✔ 2 tbsp olive oil
✔ 2 tbsp tomato paste
✔ ¼ cup vermicelli noodles (optional)
✔ Juice of ½ lemon

🔹 Optional for Meat Lovers: Add 200g of lamb or beef, cut into small pieces, for an extra hearty version.

Items NOT Included in Delivery:

You will need water, fresh lemon, and fresh coriander, which are not included in the recipe kit.

List of Utensils Required:

• 1 large pot (for cooking soup)
• 1 wooden spoon (for stirring)
• 1 cutting board (for chopping vegetables)
• 1 sharp knife (for slicing ingredients)

Nutritional Information (Per Serving & Per 100g)

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions, garlic, and celery, and sauté for 5 minutes until softened.

Step 2: Stir in cumin, turmeric, cinnamon, paprika, and black pepper. Add tomato paste and mix well.

Step 3: Pour in crushed tomatoes and broth. Add lentils and chickpeas and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let simmer for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Add vermicelli noodles (if using) and cook for another 5 minutes. Stir in chopped coriander and parsley.

Step 5: Squeeze in fresh lemon juice for extra flavor. Serve hot with Moroccan bread or dates.

Explore Related Categories & Subcategories

🔹 Shop Middle Eastern Spices
🔹 Shop Lentils & Grains

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