Moroccan Harira Soup
This simple yet flavorful dish has a special way of warming both the body and soul.
Servings: 6 servings
Equipment
- Chef knife optional
Ingredients
- 3 Tablespoons olive oil
- 2 medium onions finely chopped
- 3 celery stalks chopped
- 2 garlic cloves crushed
- 2 teaspoons cumin
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon fine salt
- Black pepper to taste
- 2 medium-sized tomatoes grated (skins discarded)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
- 6 cups water or broth
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas drained and rinsed (about 1½ cups)
- 1 cup green lentils washed and drained
For serving
- 1 small-medium lemon
- chopped parsley or cilantro
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and celery and cook until softened.
- Add garlic, cumin, turmeric, cinnamon, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir well and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the spices are fragrant.
- Add the tomatoes, chopped cilantro, and parsley. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Pour in the water or broth and add the chickpeas and green lentils. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes or until the green lentils are softened.
- Taste and adjust seasoning. If you find the soup too thick, you can add more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
- Just before serving, squeeze the juice of one lemon into the soup and stir well.
- Ladle into bowls and garnish with parsley or cilantro.
- Refrigerator: Allow the soup to cool, then transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days.Freezer: Freeze in individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months for best quality. Leave a little room at the top for expansion.Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until hot throughout. You can also microwave individual portions, stirring halfway through.The lentils will absorb some liquid as the soup sits, so add a splash of water or broth when reheating to restore the consistency.