Delicious Moroccan Harira Soup with Lamb, Chickpeas, and Vermicelli

Harira is a classic Moroccan soup that is traditionally served during the month of Ramadan. It is a hearty and flavorful soup that is made with a variety of ingredients, including lamb, chickpeas, vermicelli, and a blend of spices. The soup is typically served with dates and Moroccan bread.

Ingredients

• 1 pound lamb shoulder, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 (14-ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
• 1 (8-ounce) package vermicelli
• 1 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 cup chopped fresh parsley
• Lemon wedges, for garnish

Steps

• Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the lamb and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the lamb from the pot and set aside.
• Add the onion and garlic to the pot and cook until softened. Stir in the cumin, ginger, turmeric, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute, or until the spices are fragrant.
• Add the diced tomatoes and chickpeas to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
• Add the lamb back to the pot. Add enough water to cover the lamb by 1 inch. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour, or until the lamb is tender.
• Add the vermicelli to the pot and cook for 5 minutes, or until the vermicelli is tender. Stir in the cilantro and parsley. Serve immediately, garnished with lemon wedges.

Tips

• To make the soup ahead of time, cook the soup according to the directions. Then, let cool completely and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat the soup over medium heat until warmed through.
• To add more flavor to the soup, you can add a variety of other ingredients, such as carrots, celery, potatoes, or green beans.
• If you don't have lamb, you can substitute beef or chicken.

FAQ

• What is harira?
  Harira is a classic Moroccan soup that is typically served during the month of Ramadan. It is a hearty and flavorful soup that is made with a variety of ingredients, including lamb, chickpeas, vermicelli, and a blend of spices.
• What are the benefits of eating harira?
  Harira is packed with nutrients, including protein, fiber, and vitamins. It is a healthy and satisfying meal that can help you stay full and energized throughout the day.
• How do I make harira?
  To make harira, you will need to brown the lamb in a large pot. Then, add the onion, garlic, and spices and cook until softened. Add the diced tomatoes, chickpeas, and water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes. Add the lamb back to the pot and simmer for 1 hour, or until the lamb is tender. Add the vermicelli and cook for 5 minutes, or until the vermicelli is tender. Stir in the cilantro and parsley and serve immediately.