Traditional Harira Moroccan Recipe 🌙
Moroccan Harira is a rich and aromatic soup that holds deep cultural significance, particularly during Ramadan. This hearty dish is packed with lentils, chickpeas, and warming spices, making it both nutritious and satisfying. Whether you want a comforting meal on a chilly day or a taste of authentic Moroccan cuisine, this harira soup recipe is the perfect choice. Let’s dive into the history, preparation, and best tips to make the most flavorful Moroccan harira recipe!
History of Harira Soup
Harira is a traditional Moroccan soup with roots tracing back centuries. It has been a staple in Moroccan households, particularly during Ramadan, where it is served to break the fast. The combination of slow-cooked meat, tomatoes, chickpeas, and aromatic spices creates a wholesome meal that provides both nourishment and comfort. Over time, this harira Moroccan recipe has evolved, with variations across different regions of Morocco.
What is Moroccan Harira?
Harira is a tomato-based soup with a thick, velvety consistency. It is made with a combination of beef or lamb, lentils, chickpeas, and vermicelli noodles. The key to an authentic moroccan harira recipe lies in its rich spice blend, including ground ginger, paprika, and fresh herbs. The result is a well-balanced, flavorful soup that is both comforting and nutritious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Authentic flavors: This recipe captures the essence of traditional Moroccan harira soup.
- Nutritious and filling: Packed with protein from meat and legumes, it’s a wholesome meal.
- Easy to customize: Can be made vegetarian or with different types of meat.
- Perfect for meal prep: Tastes even better the next day and freezes well
Personal Experience
Growing up, harira soup Moroccan recipe was a dish that brought family together. The aroma of simmering tomatoes, herbs, and spices filled our home, signaling the start of a comforting meal. Over the years, I’ve perfected this recipe to balance flavors and textures, making it an all-time favorite for family gatherings.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large soup pot
- Wooden spoon
- Cutting board and knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Strainer (for lentils and chickpeas)
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 2 hours
- Total time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Taste and Texture
Harira is a delightful blend of textures—soft chickpeas and lentils, tender meat, and silky noodles in a flavorful tomato-based broth. The taste is slightly tangy from the tomatoes, earthy from the lentils, and aromatic from the spices and herbs.
Ingredients for Moroccan Harira
- Olive oil 2 tablespoons
- Medium onion, finely diced 1
- Beef or lamb stew meat 500g
- Ground ginger 2 teaspoons
- Paprika 1 tablespoon
- Fresh coriander, chopped ½ cup
- Fresh parsley, chopped ½ cup
- Salt and pepper To taste
- Tomato puree (passata) 700g
- Beef stock 1L
- Water 1L
- Dried green lentils 1 cup
- Chickpeas (canned) 400g, drained
- Vermicelli noodles 1 cup, broken
How to Make Harira Moroccan Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Base
- Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion, meat, ground ginger, paprika, half the coriander and parsley, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Sauté for about 5–10 minutes until the meat browns and the onion becomes translucent.
Step 2: Simmer the Soup
- Pour in the tomato puree, beef stock, and water. Stir well to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat and cover the pot.
- Let it simmer for 2 hours until the meat becomes tender.
Step 3: Cook the Lentils
- Rinse the lentils under cold water.
- Place them in a separate saucepan, cover with water, and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and let them simmer for 15 minutes. Set aside.
Step 4: Add Chickpeas and Noodles
- Once the meat is tender, add the drained chickpeas to the soup.
- Cook for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Add the cooked lentils and vermicelli noodles.
- Simmer for another 5 minutes, or until the noodles are soft.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle the remaining fresh coriander and parsley over the soup.
- Serve hot with fresh bread for dipping and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Moroccan Harira Recipe
- Use fresh herbs: Fresh coriander and parsley enhance the flavor.
- Adjust consistency: Add water if the soup becomes too thick.
- Enhance the spices: Feel free to adjust paprika and ginger based on your taste preference.
Optional Additions
- A squeeze of lemon juice for extra tang.
- A pinch of saffron for deeper flavor.
- A dollop of yogurt for creaminess.
What to Serve with Harira
- Fresh Moroccan bread
- Dates and milk (traditional for Ramadan)
- A simple cucumber and tomato salad
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Allow the soup to cool completely, then freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
Variations
- Vegetarian Harira: Skip the meat and use vegetable stock.
- Spicy Harira: Add a dash of cayenne pepper.
- Chunky Harira: Keep some chickpeas whole for a chunkier texture.
Final Thoughts
Moroccan Harira is a comforting and flavorful dish that has stood the test of time. Whether you enjoy it during Ramadan or as a cozy meal, this authentic moroccan harira recipe is bound to impress. The rich spices, tender meat, and hearty legumes make it a must-try recipe that brings warmth and tradition to your table.
FAQ
Can I make Harira without meat?
Yes! Simply replace the beef or lamb with vegetable stock for a delicious vegetarian harira.
Can I use canned lentils?
Absolutely. If using canned lentils, skip the cooking step and add them directly with the chickpeas.
How do I thicken my harira?
If your soup is too thin, let it simmer longer or add a small amount of flour mixed with water.
What are the health benefits of Harira?
Harira is rich in protein, fiber, and essential nutrients from lentils, chickpeas, and fresh herbs.
Nutrition Chart (Per Serving)
- Calories 320
- Protein 22g
- Carbohydrates 40g
- Fat 10g
- Fiber 8g
Enjoy your Moroccan Harira and share this recipe with your loved ones!
