How to Make Harira – A Warm Bowl of Moroccan Comfort
🛑 Cultural Note: Let’s be clear—Harira is Moroccan. While other countries may have similar soups, this rich, tomato-based soup with lentils and chickpeas is deeply rooted in Moroccan heritage. It's traditionally served to break the fast during Ramadan, but its comforting flavor is perfect any time of year.
🧂 What You’ll Need (Spices & Core Flavors)
To make harira taste authentically Moroccan, you’ll need:
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1 tsp ground ginger
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1 tsp ground cinnamon
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1 tsp turmeric
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1 tsp black pepper
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Salt to taste
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1 small bunch each: fresh cilantro and parsley (finely chopped)
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A pinch of saffron threads (optional but excellent)
📝 Step-by-Step: How to Make Traditional Harira
Ingredients (Base Only – You can add meat or keep it vegetarian):
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1 cup cooked chickpeas
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1/2 cup green lentils
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1/4 cup rice or fine vermicelli
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2 medium tomatoes, blended
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1 onion, grated or finely chopped
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2 tbsp tomato paste
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2 tbsp olive oil
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1L (4 cups) water or light broth
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Optional: 150g diced beef or lamb
Instructions:
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Sauté the Aromatics
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In a large pot, heat the olive oil. Add the onion and sauté until translucent.
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Stir in the meat (if using), along with all your spices.
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Add Tomatoes
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Pour in the blended tomatoes and tomato paste.
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Cook for 5–7 minutes until it thickens slightly and deepens in color.
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Add Legumes
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Stir in chickpeas and lentils. Mix well.
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Simmer
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Pour in the water or broth and bring to a gentle boil.
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Reduce heat and simmer for 45 minutes (until lentils are soft).
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Thicken & Finish
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Add rice or vermicelli and cook for another 10–15 minutes.
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Toss in chopped herbs at the end for that fresh Moroccan aroma.
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📸 A Look at the Final Bowl
Hearty, warming, and full of flavor.
💬 Tried This Recipe?
If you make Harira at home, let me know how it turned out! Did the flavors take you somewhere warm and familiar? Drop a comment below or share a photo—I'd love to see your version of this Moroccan classic. 📸🍵
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