Welcome to a culinary journey to Morocco with the "Ultimate Harira Moroccan Chickpea Lentil Soup"! This hearty and flavorful soup is not just a meal; it's an experience that warms the soul and tantalizes the taste buds. Packed with nutritious lentils and chickpeas, aromatic spices, and a medley of vegetables, this dish is perfect for cozy nights or impressing your guests. With just a little effort, you can create a bowl of comfort that transports you straight to the bustling markets of Marrakech. Ready to dive into this delightful recipe? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 20 mins
Cuisine: Moroccan
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup lentils
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon coriander
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent and softened, approximately 4-5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Stir in cumin, coriander, and cinnamon, allowing the spices to toast and release their aromatic oils for about 1 minute.
- Pour in vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, lentils, and chickpeas. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Bring the mixture to a full boil, then reduce heat to low and cover the pot. Simmer gently for 45-50 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Check lentils for tenderness. They should be soft but not mushy. If needed, add more broth and continue cooking.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust spices if desired for a more intense flavor profile.
- Remove from heat and let the soup rest for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
- Serve hot in deep bowls, optionally garnished with fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lemon juice.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, chop your onions and garlic in advance. You can also rinse and drain the chickpeas the night before, making the cooking process smoother.
- Spice It Up: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste. If you love heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped fresh chili for an extra kick!
- Texture Matters: Keep an eye on the lentils as they cook. You want them tender but not mushy, so check for doneness after about 40 minutes.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for about 10 minutes after cooking lets the flavors meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste.
- Garnish for Flair: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving can elevate the dish and add a refreshing touch.
- Make It a Meal: Pair your Harira with crusty bread or a simple salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
- Store and Reheat: This soup stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days, and the flavors deepen over time. Just reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
