Simple Steps to Make Delicious Moroccan Harira Soup
Moroccan Harira soup is a fragrant and hearty dish that is traditionally served during Ramadan but is also enjoyed year-round. Its rich blend of tomatoes, lentils, chickpeas, herbs, and spices, with an option of adding meat, makes it a nourishing meal full of flavor. If you’re looking to explore Moroccan cuisine or add a new soup recipe to your repertoire, you’ll be delighted to know that making Harira at home is straightforward. Follow these simple steps to cook up a delicious pot of Moroccan Harira soup that’ll warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Before you start, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 celery sticks, finely chopped
- 2 teaspoons ground ginger
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 pound (about 450 g) of tomatoes, grated or blended
- 1/3 cup (about 75 g) of tomato paste
- 6 cups (about 1.4 liters) of water or broth
- 1 cup (about 200 g) of lentils (green, brown or red)
- 1 can (about 400 g) of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup (about 50 g) of long-grain rice or broken vermicelli noodles
- Fresh cilantro and parsley, chopped
- Salt to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving
Optional: Add 1/2 pound (about 225 g) of lamb or beef, cut into small chunks, for a meaty version.
Cooking Steps:
1. Prepare the Base
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and celery, cooking them until they’re soft and golden. This will take approximately 5-7 minutes. If you’re including meat, add it at this stage, browning it lightly.
2. Spice It Up
Stir in the ground ginger, cinnamon, turmeric, and black pepper. Let the spices cook for a minute until they become fragrant. This step is crucial, as it releases the oil in the spices, enriching your Harira with its characteristic flavors.
3. Add Tomatoes and Lentils
Mix in the grated tomatoes and tomato paste. Cook for a few minutes until they’re well integrated with the onions, celery, and spices. Then, add the lentils. It’s important to rinse the lentils thoroughly before adding them to the pot.
4. Pour in the Liquid
Introduce the water or broth into your soup mixture. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer. The soup should cook uncovered for about 30 to 40 minutes, but if you’re using meat, you may need to simmer it a bit longer, until both the meat and lentils are tender.
5. Chickpeas and Rice or Noodles
Once the lentils (and meat, if using) are almost done, add the chickpeas and rice or broken vermicelli noodles to the pot. Continue simmering until the rice or noodles and chickpeas are tender – this will usually take around 20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. Final Flavors
Towards the end of the cooking process, add the chopped fresh cilantro and parsley. Season your Harira with salt to taste, and adjust any other seasoning as necessary. The herbs will give your soup a fresh, vibrant lift.
7. Serve Hot
Ladle your aromatic Harira into bowls. Serve with lemon wedges on the side; a squeeze of lemon juice will add a refreshing zestiness that complements the rich, savory flavors of the soup perfectly.
Tips for the Perfect Harira:
- Soak Chickpeas: If using dried chickpeas, remember to soak them overnight. They’ll cook faster and be more digestible.
- Consistency: Harira’s consistency can vary from broth-like to thick. Adjust the amount of water or broth based on your preference.
- Herbs: Fresh herbs are best, but if unavailable, you can substitute with a smaller amount of dried herbs.
Creating a delicious Moroccan Harira soup at home is an enjoyable journey through the flavors of Morocco. This soup not only nourishes the body but also warms the soul with its rich and comforting spices. Whether for a special occasion like Ramadan or a simple family dinner, Harira is a versatile dish that’s sure to impress. Enjoy the process and relish your homemade Moroccan delight!
