Authentic Harira Soup Recipe: Traditional Moroccan Lentil and Chickpea Soup

Harira is a traditional Moroccan soup that is often enjoyed during Ramadan and is a beloved dish in many North African countries. It’s a flavorful, hearty soup made with a combination of lentils, chickpeas, tomatoes, and various herbs and spices. Here’s a simple recipe to make Harira:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dried chickpeas
• 1 cup dried lentils
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, peeled and chopped (or 1 can of diced tomatoes)
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 small celery stalk, chopped
• 1 small carrot, chopped
• 1-2 tablespoons flour (optional, to thicken)
• 2 tablespoons rice (optional, for texture)
• Salt, to taste
• 6 cups water or broth (vegetable or chicken)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the chickpeas: Soak the dried chickpeas overnight in water. Drain them before adding to the soup. If you’re using canned chickpeas, rinse and drain them.
2. Cook the base: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, celery, and carrot, and sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened.
3. Add spices and tomato paste: Stir in the ginger, turmeric, cinnamon, black pepper, cumin, and paprika. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the tomato paste and chopped tomatoes, and cook for another 5 minutes.
4. Simmer the soup: Add the lentils, chickpeas, cilantro, parsley, and rice (if using). Pour in the water or broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 45-60 minutes, or until the lentils and chickpeas are tender.
5. Thicken the soup (optional): If you prefer a thicker soup, mix the flour with a little water to form a smooth paste and stir it into the soup. Let it cook for an additional 10 minutes to thicken.
6. Adjust seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the salt as needed. You can also add a bit of lemon juice for extra tang, if desired.
7. Serve: Serve the Harira hot, garnished with additional fresh cilantro or parsley if desired, and with some crusty bread or dates on the side.

Enjoy your homemade Harira, a comforting and nourishing dish!