A Hearty, Flavorful Soup
Harira is a rich, warming Moroccan soup made with tomatoes, lentils, chickpeas, and aromatic spices. Traditionally served during Ramadan to break the fast, this hearty dish is also perfect for cozy meals anytime you need a comforting bowl of goodness.
I love this recipe because it’s nutritious, packed with bold spices, and incredibly satisfying. Whether served as a starter or a full meal, Harira is a one-pot wonder that brings warmth and tradition to the table.
Questions I Often Get Asked About This Recipe
Q: What makes Harira so special?
Harira is a Moroccan staple known for its bold, comforting flavors and nutrient-rich ingredients like lentils, chickpeas, and tomatoes. It’s deeply spiced yet light and nourishing.
Q: Can I make Harira vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the meat and use vegetable broth instead of chicken or beef broth.
Q: What type of lentils should I use?
Use brown or green lentils, as they hold their shape well. Red lentils will break down more and create a thicker consistency.
Q: How long does Harira last?
Stored in an airtight container, it lasts up to 5 days in the fridge and up to 3 months in the freezer.
Q: Can I use canned chickpeas instead of dried?
Yes! If using canned chickpeas, just drain and rinse before adding them to the soup.
What You Need to Make Moroccan Harira
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon turmeric
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup cooked chickpeas (or ½ cup dried, soaked overnight)
- ½ cup brown or green lentils, rinsed
- ¼ cup tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Juice of ½ a lemon (for serving)
(Optional: Add ½ pound diced lamb or beef for a meatier version.)
How to Make Moroccan Comfort Harira
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onions and cook until soft (about 5 minutes).
- Stir in garlic, cumin, coriander, ginger, cinnamon, turmeric, and paprika; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Simmer the Soup
- Add tomatoes, broth, chickpeas, lentils, and tomato paste.
- Stir well and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes, until the lentils are tender.
Step 3: Adjust & Serve
- Season with salt and pepper, adjusting to taste.
- Stir in fresh cilantro and parsley.
- Serve hot with a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
Tips for the Best Harira
✔ Use homemade broth – A rich broth enhances the depth of flavor.
✔ Let it simmer longer – The longer it cooks, the better the flavors meld.
✔ Want a thicker soup? – Blend half the soup for a creamy texture while keeping some chunkiness.
✔ Make it spicy – Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or harissa for heat.
✔ For extra richness – Stir in a tablespoon of butter before serving.
Reader Reviews
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Emma L. – “The best Harira I’ve ever made! So flavorful and comforting.”
🌟🌟🌟🌟 James K. – “Loved how easy this was! Added lamb for extra heartiness, and it was amazing.”
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Samantha W. – “The spices are perfectly balanced. Tastes just like the Harira I had in Morocco!”
🌟🌟🌟🌟 Lucas R. – “A perfect meatless meal! Super filling and packed with flavor.”
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Jessica T. – “I made a big batch and froze some—reheats beautifully!”
Printable Recipe
Moroccan Comfort Harira
This Moroccan Comfort Harira is a rich, spiced soup made with lentils, chickpeas, tomatoes, and warming spices—a traditional and comforting dish perfect for any season!
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon turmeric
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup cooked chickpeas (or ½ cup dried, soaked overnight)
- ½ cup brown or green lentils, rinsed
- ¼ cup tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Juice of ½ a lemon (for serving)
- (Optional: Add ½ pound diced lamb or beef for a meatier version.)
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onions and cook until soft (about 5 minutes).
- Stir in garlic, cumin, coriander, ginger, cinnamon, turmeric, and paprika; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Simmer the Soup
- Add tomatoes, broth, chickpeas, lentils, and tomato paste.
- Stir well and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes, until the lentils are tender.
Step 3: Adjust & Serve
- Season with salt and pepper, adjusting to taste.
- Stir in fresh cilantro and parsley.
- Serve hot with a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
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If You Enjoyed This Recipe, Please Share!
If you loved this Moroccan Comfort Harira, don’t keep it to yourself! Share it on social media, pin it on Pinterest, or send it to a friend who loves international cuisine. I’d love to see your versions—tag me if you try it!
