Harira is far more than a simple soup; it is the soul of Moroccan cuisine and the essential accompaniment during the holy month of Ramadan. This vegetarian version combines tender legumes, wheat noodles, and a spice-infused base that transforms every spoonful into a deeply nourishing and comforting embrace.
Ingredients
How many are you cooking for?
Original recipe for 6 servings
- 1 cup dried chickpeas
- 1/2 cup brown lentils
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup fine wheat vermicelli
- 1 large bunch fresh parsley
- 1 large bunch fresh cilantro
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 liter hot water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step by step
Follow the timeline: technique icon, time and temperature when relevant.
- Step 1 Prep 20 min
Hydrate chickpeas in cold water for at least eight hours; then cook brown lentils in boiling water over medium heat for twenty minutes until they are slightly tender.
- Step 2 Pan 5 min
In a wide pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat and sauté chopped onion with garlic for five minutes; lower the heat and add ginger, turmeric, cinnamon, and cumin, stirring constantly to release their essential oils without burning.
- Step 3 Pot / simmer 3 min
Add crushed tomatoes and tomato paste, mix vigorously for three minutes to lightly caramelize, and prevent sticking by adding a splash of water if the mixture begins to dry out.
- Step 4 Pot / simmer 15 min
Pour hot water over the vegetable base, add drained chickpeas and roughly chopped fresh herbs; bring to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer to allow the flavors to develop.
- Step 5 Cook 15 min
Incorporate fine wheat noodles and cook uncovered over medium-low heat for fifteen minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent clumping and letting the starch naturally thicken the broth.
- Step 6 Rest 10 min
Remove from heat, adjust salt and pepper to taste, and let the soup rest covered for ten minutes; this pause is crucial for flavor integration and even noodle hydration.
- Step 7 Serve
Serve immediately in traditional bowls while steaming; for a thicker consistency, add a handful of extra noodles or allow it to rest for a few more minutes before serving.