Authentic Moroccan Harira Soup Recipe

Moroccan Harira Soup fills the air with tantalizing aromas that dance around your kitchen like they’re auditioning for a Broadway show. Imagine a warm bowl of this vibrant soup, brimming with spices, tender chickpeas, and fresh herbs that tickle your taste buds and make you rethink everything you thought you knew about comfort food. It’s like a cozy hug in a bowl on a chilly evening.

Every time I whip up a pot of Moroccan Harira Soup, I’m transported back to my travels through Morocco. I fondly remember sitting in bustling bazaars, savoring steaming bowls while surrounded by laughter and lively chatter. This isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience meant to be shared during festive occasions or simply enjoyed on a rainy day when all you want is something warm and delicious.

I still remember the first time I made this soup for my friends; they couldn’t stop raving about how flavorful it was!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Chickpeas: Use canned chickpeas for quick prep or dried ones soaked overnight for more depth.
• Red Lentils: These cook quickly and add creaminess to the soup—perfect for balancing textures.
• Fresh Parsley: Choose bright green parsley; it enhances flavor and adds freshness to each bowl.
• Cilantro: Fresh cilantro gives that authentic Moroccan flavor; don’t skip it if you love herbaceous notes.
• Tomatoes: Fresh or canned tomatoes work well; they provide acidity and sweetness that enhance the broth.
• Onion: Dice finely to release its natural sweetness as it caramelizes in the pot.
• Spices (Cumin, Paprika, Cinnamon): These spices bring warmth and complexity—be generous but not overwhelming!
• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the flavors at the end—don’t skip this vital step.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Sautéing Aromatics: Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent and fragrant—about 5 minutes.

Add Spices and Tomatoes: Stir in cumin, paprika, cinnamon, and diced tomatoes. Allow them to mingle for another 3 minutes so the spices can bloom beautifully.

Incorporate Legumes: Toss in chickpeas and red lentils along with 6 cups of vegetable broth. Bring everything to a gentle simmer while stirring occasionally.

Add Fresh Herbs and Seasoning: Once simmering happily away, stir in chopped parsley and cilantro along with salt and pepper to taste—this is where the magic happens.

Cook Until Tender: Let the soup simmer uncovered for about 30-40 minutes until the lentils are tender but not mushy—stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Finish with Lemon Juice: Just before serving, squeeze in fresh lemon juice for that zesty kick! Taste and adjust seasonings if needed—maybe even add extra herbs if you’re feeling adventurous!

Now grab your favorite crusty bread or serve it over fluffy couscous for an unforgettable meal that will have everyone begging for seconds! Enjoy!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve the best results, start by sautéing onions and garlic, then add spices before adding the tomatoes and broth. This sequence enhances the flavor development beautifully.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap lentils for chickpeas or add diced zucchini for extra veggies. A splash of lemon juice can brighten up the flavors too!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding water if needed to restore its creamy texture.

Cooking Moroccan Harira Soup always reminds me of cozy family dinners. Friends would gather, and we’d share stories while savoring every comforting spoonful together.

FAQ

What is Moroccan Harira Soup?

Moroccan Harira Soup is a traditional soup made with lentils, tomatoes, and aromatic spices.

Can I freeze Moroccan Harira Soup?

Yes, you can freeze it in airtight containers for up to three months without losing flavor.

What spices are essential in this recipe?

Cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and paprika are key spices that bring depth to Harira Soup.

Print

Moroccan Harira Soup

---

• Author: Ethan Brooks
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Experience the vibrant flavors of Moroccan cuisine with this hearty Harira Soup, packed with spices, chickpeas, and fresh herbs. Perfect for cozy gatherings or solo meals.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 can chickpeas (or 1 cup dried chickpeas soaked overnight)
• 1 cup red lentils
• 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/2 cup cilantro, chopped
• 2 cups tomatoes, diced (fresh or canned)
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 6 cups vegetable broth
• Salt and pepper to taste

---

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté diced onions until translucent (about 5 minutes).
2. Add cumin, paprika, cinnamon, and tomatoes; cook for an additional 3 minutes.
3. Stir in chickpeas and red lentils with vegetable broth. Bring to a gentle simmer.
4. Incorporate parsley and cilantro; season with salt and pepper.
5. Simmer uncovered for 30-40 minutes until lentils are tender.
6. Finish by squeezing in fresh lemon juice before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Moroccan

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 350mg
• Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 12g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: - For added texture, substitute lentils with diced zucchini or additional vegetables. - Adjust seasoning levels to cater to your taste preferences—spice it up or keep it mild!