Moroccan Lentil and Chickpea Soup, or Harira, is a delightful and nourishing dish. It’s packed with flavor and is perfect for any time of the year. This soup is not only filling but also good for you, making it a great addition to your meal rotation.
Why Make This Recipe
You should make this soup because it’s easy to prepare and delicious! It’s a fantastic way to warm up on a chilly day. It’s packed with healthy ingredients and will keep your family satisfied. Plus, it’s a great way to use lentils and chickpeas, making it a good choice if you want a meatless option!
How to Make Moroccan Lentil and Chickpea Soup
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dried green or brown lentils
- 1 cup canned chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro and parsley, for garnish
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Directions:
- In a large pot, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the lentils, chickpeas, diced tomatoes, broth, cumin, coriander, and paprika. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until lentils are tender.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and parsley, and with lemon wedges on the side.
How to Serve Moroccan Lentil and Chickpea Soup
Serve your Harira in a nice bowl. You can add some fresh bread on the side for dipping. It’s great for lunch or dinner! Don’t forget to squeeze some lemon on top for extra flavor!
How to Store Moroccan Lentil and Chickpea Soup
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. It will last for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze the soup for up to 2 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before freezing!
Tips to Make Moroccan Lentil and Chickpea Soup
- Rinse the lentils before using them to remove any dirt.
- Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition.
- Adjust the spices to fit your taste. If you like it spicy, add a pinch of cayenne pepper!
Variation
You can make a tomato-based version by adding more diced tomatoes or using tomato sauce. If you want to add meat, feel free to add diced chicken or beef during the cooking process.
FAQs
1. Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?
Absolutely! Just make sure to soak them overnight and cook them until soft before adding them to the soup.
2. Is this soup vegan?
Yes, if you use vegetable broth, this soup is completely vegan!
3. Can I make it in a slow cooker?
Yes! Just add all the ingredients to your slow cooker and let it cook on low for about 6-8 hours. Enjoy your easy meal!