Harira Marrakchia (Moroccan Velvet Tomato, Lentil, Chickpea & Cilantro Soup) – Authentic Morocco Recipe

Ingredients for Harira Marrakchia (Moroccan Velvet Tomato, Lentil, Chickpea & Cilantro Soup) (4 Servings)

• 1.25 lbs (or 2.5 cups) brown lentils and peeled chickpeas, prepped into bite-sized pieces
• 1.5 cups crushed ripe tomatoes and fine vermicelli, washed and trimmed
• 1 cup fresh lemon wedges
• 1 medium onion and 3 cloves garlic, finely minced with cinnamon
• 1.5 tbsp traditional Morocco seasoning (ground ginger, turmeric, abundant fresh cilantro and parsley, celery leaf)
• 2.5 cups rich culinary stock or aromatic cooking liquid, plus 2 tbsp cooking oil

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Warm cooking oil in a heavy pot over medium heat; gently sweat the minced onion, garlic, and cinnamon for 3–4 minutes until fragrant.
2. Stir in ground ginger, turmeric, abundant fresh cilantro and parsley, celery leaf and toast for 45 seconds to release the essential oils of Morocco's kitchen.
3. Add brown lentils and peeled chickpeas and crushed ripe tomatoes and fine vermicelli, tossing to coat in the aromatic base.
4. Pour in the stock, bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer covered for 18–20 minutes until tender and deeply flavorful.
5. Fold in fresh lemon wedges, adjust seasoning, and ladle steaming hot into deep bowls.