Moroccan soup

Moroccan soup “harira”

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Moroccan cuisine is famous for its rich, flavorful soups, and one of the most beloved is Harira—a hearty, spiced tomato-based soup traditionally served during Ramadan but enjoyed year-round. Here’s a delicious recipe for Moroccan Harira:

Moroccan Harira Soup Recipe

(Serves 4-6)

Ingredients:

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 1 large carrot, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tsp ginger, grated
  • 1 tsp turmeric
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp cayenne (optional, for heat)
  • 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
  • ½ cup lentils (brown or red), rinsed
  • ½ cup chickpeas (cooked or canned)
  • 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
  • 1 cup water
  • ¼ cup tomato paste
  • ½ cup vermicelli or broken spaghetti (optional, for texture)
  • ½ cup fresh cilantro & parsley, chopped
  • 1 lemon (for serving)
  • Salt to taste

Instructions:

  1. Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot. Add onion, celery, and carrot, cooking until soft (5 min). Stir in garlic, ginger, and spices (turmeric, cinnamon, cumin, paprika, black pepper, cayenne) for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  2. Add Tomatoes & Legumes: Pour in diced tomatoes, lentils, chickpeas, broth, water, and tomato paste. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes until lentils are tender.
  3. Add Noodles & Herbs: Stir in vermicelli (if using) and cook for 5-7 minutes until soft. Add chopped cilantro and parsley.
  4. Adjust Seasoning: Taste and add salt as needed. The soup should be rich, slightly tangy, and warmly spiced.
  5. Serve Hot: Ladle into bowls, squeeze fresh lemon juice on top, and garnish with extra herbs. Serve with Moroccan bread (khobz) or dates for authenticity.

Tips for the Best Harira:

  • For extra richness, add lamb or chicken (brown meat first before onions).
  • Some versions include a flour-water slurry to thicken the soup.
  • Let it rest 10 minutes before serving—flavors deepen!

This soup is comforting, nutritious, and full of Moroccan flavors—perfect for any meal! Would you like a variation with lamb or a vegetarian twist? 😊