Authentic Moroccan Harira Soup
A deeply comforting and nutrient-dense Moroccan staple, this vibrant soup features a rich tomato base layered with earthy lentils, tender chickpeas, and delicate vermicelli. Infused with warming spices like ginger, turmeric, and cinnamon, Harira is a protein-packed meal that serves as a beautiful introduction to North African cuisine. Perfectly balanced with a bright finish of fresh herbs and lemon, this hearty stew is as satisfying as it is aromatic, making it the ideal dish for cozy family gatherings or a nourishing slow-paced dinner at home.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 75
- Total Time: 95
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop simmer
- Cuisine: Moroccan
- Diet: Dairy-free
Ingredients
2 tbsp olive oil
1 lb beef, cut into small cubes
1 large onion, finely chopped
2 stalks celery, finely chopped
1 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1 tsp ground ginger
1 tsp ground turmeric
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
2 lbs fresh tomatoes, blended or 28 oz crushed tomatoes
3 tbsp tomato paste
1/2 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed
1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained
6 cups water or beef stock
1/2 cup vermicelli noodles
2 tbsp lemon juice
Instructions
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
Add the beef cubes and cook until browned on all sides.
Stir in the chopped onion and celery, sautéing until softened.
Add the cilantro, parsley, ginger, turmeric, cinnamon, salt, and pepper, stirring for 2 minutes to toast the spices.
Pour in the blended tomatoes, tomato paste, and water/stock, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil.
Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 40 minutes.
Add the rinsed lentils and continue simmering for another 20 minutes until lentils are tender.
Stir in the chickpeas and vermicelli noodles, cooking for 5-7 minutes until the noodles are soft.
Remove from heat and stir in the fresh lemon juice.
Serve hot, garnished with extra fresh cilantro if desired.
Notes
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The soup will thicken significantly in the fridge due to the lentils and noodles; add a splash of water when reheating to restore the consistency. For a vegetarian version, simply omit the beef or swap it for cubed sweet potatoes or carrots.
Find it online: https://cookingwithramsay.com/authentic-moroccan-harira-soup/