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Authentic Harira Soup

Hearty Authentic Harira Soup: Comfort in Every Spoonful

This Authentic Harira Soup offers a rich, comforting taste of Moroccan tradition, blending lentils, spices, and love in every bowl.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Dinner
Cuisine Moroccan
Servings 6 servings
Calories 300 kcal

Equipment

  • large pot

Ingredients
  

For the Soup Base

  • 1 lb Lamb or Beef For vegetarian version, use additional lentils or a meat substitute.
  • 1 large Onion
  • 2 Tbsp Olive Oil Substitute vegetable oil as a neutral alternative.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Minced.
  • 1 Tbsp Ground Ginger Substitute fresh ginger for a stronger flavor.
  • 1 Tbsp Ground Cinnamon
  • 1 Tbsp Turmeric
  • 1 Tbsp Paprika Substitute smoked paprika for a different depth.
  • 1 tsp Black Pepper

For the Legumes and Vegetables

  • 1 cup Dried Green Lentils Substitute brown lentils but adjust cooking time.
  • 1 can Chickpeas Drained and rinsed.
  • 1 can Canned Diced Tomatoes Alternatively, use fresh tomatoes.

For Freshness and Flavor

  • 1 bunch Fresh Cilantro and Parsley Chopped.
  • 4 cups Broth (Vegetable or Chicken) Substitute water, but broth enhances flavor.
  • 1 cup Vermicelli Noodles Optional; substitute with broken spaghetti or omit for gluten-free.
  • 2 Tbsp Lemon Juice Fresh.
  • to taste tsp Salt Adjust according to preference.

Instructions
 

How to Make Authentic Harira Soup

  • Warm olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
  • Incorporate minced garlic, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, turmeric, paprika, and black pepper into the pot. Cook for 2 minutes until fragrant.
  • If using lamb or beef, add the cubes to the pot and brown for 5-6 minutes.
  • Stir in dried green lentils, chickpeas, and canned or fresh diced tomatoes. Mix thoroughly.
  • Pour in broth and bring to a boil. Cover the pot, reduce heat, and simmer on low for 45 minutes.
  • Add chopped cilantro and parsley, and simmer for another 15 minutes.
  • If adding vermicelli noodles, do so during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
  • Just before serving, stir in fresh lemon juice and adjust the salt.

Notes

Serve hot, garnished with extra herbs and lemon wedges. Optionally sprinkle with crumbled feta.
Keyword Authentic Harira Soup, comfort food, hearty soup, lentil soup, Moroccan soup, vegetarian options