Moroccan Harira is one of the most iconic soups in Morocco. It is rich, flavorful, and traditionally served during Ramadan, but Moroccans enjoy it all year for its warm taste and silky texture. This recipe is easy to follow and includes all the measurements you need to create a perfect bowl of Harira at home.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion finely chopped
- 2 celery stalks finely chopped
- 1 handful fresh cilantro chopped
- 1 handful fresh parsley chopped
- 1 handful fresh celery leaves chopped optional
- 2 tomatoes grated or blended
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup chickpeas cooked
- 1 cup lentils cooked or ½ cup dry lentils rinsed
- 200 g beef or lamb small cubes optional
- 1 tsp ginger powder
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt to taste
- 1.5 liters water or broth
Thickening Mixture
- 3 tbsp all purpose flour
- ½ cup water mixed until smooth
Final Touch
- ½ cup cooked vermicelli
- Lemon wedges for serving
- Dates or chebakia optional
Instructions
Step 1. Build the Flavor
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion, celery, cilantro, parsley, and celery leaves. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes until the onion softens.
Step 2. Add Tomatoes and Spices
Add grated tomatoes and tomato paste. Mix well. Add ginger, turmeric, black pepper, paprika, and salt. Cook for about 5 minutes to develop the flavor.
Step 3. Add Protein and Legumes
Add the beef or lamb cubes if using. Then the chickpeas if they are cooked from dry. And lentils and mix everything together.
Step 4. Add Water and Simmer
Pour in the water or broth. Bring to a boil then reduce heat. Simmer for 45 minutes. If using dry lentils, simmer at least 1 hour.
Important Note About Chickpeas
If you are using canned chickpeas, do not add them now. They must be added at the end with the vermicelli so they do not break apart.
Step 5. Thicken the Soup
Mix the flour with water until completely smooth. Pour the mixture slowly into the pot while stirring. Cook for 10 minutes until Harira becomes silky.
Step 6. Add Vermicelli and Canned Chickpeas
Add the cooked vermicelli and stir. If using canned chickpeas, add them now. Simmer for 5 more minutes.
Step 7. Adjust and Serve
Taste and adjust salt and pepper. Add water if it is too thick or simmer longer if it is too thin.
Serve hot with lemon wedges. Dates or chebakia on the side make it a truly Moroccan experience.
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