Harira is a traditional Moroccan soup made with lentils, chickpeas, tomatoes, and aromatic spices. This Best Harira Recipe offers a rich and hearty dish that’s perfect for a comforting meal. Garnished with fresh herbs and lemon, this flavorful soup is ideal for any occasion.

A Hearty Moroccan Soup with Lentils and Chickpeas
Harira is a traditional Moroccan soup that’s rich, flavorful, and deeply satisfying. This Best Harira Recipe is made with lentils, chickpeas, tomatoes, and a fragrant blend of spices, simmered to perfection in a savory broth. Often enjoyed during Ramadan to the break the fast, Harira is a comforting dish that can be served as a starter or main course. With its combination of protein-packed legumes and warming spices, Harira is a nourishing meal that’s perfect for any time of year.
What is Harira?
Harira is a traditional Moroccan soup that’s widely enjoyed across North Africa, particularly during the holy month of Ramadan. The name “Harira” comes from the Arabic word “harir,” meaning silk, which refers to the smooth and velvety texture of the soup. Harira is made with a base of lentils, chickpeas, and tomatoes, and it’s flavored with an aromatic blend of spices of the such as cumin, turmeric, cinnamon, and ginger. Some versions of Harira also include vermicelli or small pasta, and it’s often served with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and garnished with cilantro and parsley.

How Should Harira Taste?
A perfectly made Harira should be rich and hearty, with layers of flavor from the spices and herbs. The lentils and chickpeas provide a satisfying texture, while the tomatoes add a subtle sweetness and acidity. The cinnamon, cumin, and turmeric give the soup a warming, earthy depth, while the fresh herbs brighten the dish. The optional addition of vermicelli adds a silky texture that complements the tender legumes. Overall, Harira should be flavorful, fragrant, and comforting—perfect for a nourishing meal.
Read More: Traditional Dolma Recipe: Delicious Stuffed Grape Leaves with Rice and Herbs
Tips for Making the Best Harira
To make the best Harira, follow these essential tips:
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh cilantro and parsley are key ingredients in the harira recipe making are Harira, adding a burst of freshness to balance the hearty flavors. Chop the herbs finely and stir them in just before serving for the best flavor.
- Simmer Gently: Harira should be simmered slowly to allow the flavors to develop fully. Make sure to keep the heat low and cover the pot while we are cooking. This helps the lentils and chickpeas absorb the flavors of the broth.
- Spice it Right: The unique flavor of Harira comes from its blend of spices. Adjust the quantities based on your taste preference, but don’t skip the cinnamon—it adds a subtle warmth that complements the savory ingredients.
- Add Vermicelli at the End: If you’re using vermicelli or small pasta, add it towards the end of the cooking process to prevent it from becoming too soft. Stir it in during the last 10 minutes to ensure it retains its texture.

Harira Recipe
Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon
- Sharp knife and cutting board
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup dry lentils (green or brown)
- 1/2 cup chickpeas (canned or pre-cooked)
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
- 1 large onion finley chopped
- 2 garlic cloves
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground turmeric
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 ground ginger
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 5 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1/4 cup vermicelli or broken spaghetti (optional)
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
Instructions
- 1. Sauté the Onions and GarlicIn a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté for 5-7 minutes until soft and golden.Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.2. Add Spices and Tomato PasteAdd the tomato paste, cumin, turmeric, cinnamon, ginger, smoked paprika, and black pepper to the pot.Stir the spices into the onions and garlic, cooking for 1-2 minutes to release their aroma.3. Add Lentils, Chickpeas, and TomatoesStir in the lentils, chickpeas, and diced tomatoes. Mix well to coat the ingredients with the spices and tomato paste.Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, and bring the mixture to a boil.4. Simmer the SoupReduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the soup simmer for 45-50 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the lentils are tender and the flavors have melded together.5. Add Vermicelli (Optional)If you’re using vermicelli or broken spaghetti, add it to the pot during the last 10 minutes of cooking, stirring occasionally to ensure the pasta doesn't stick together.6. Garnish and ServeOnce the soup is cooked, stir in the chopped cilantro and parsley.Serve the Harira hot, garnished with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for an extra burst of flavor.
Notes
- Chickpea Prep: If you’re using dried chickpeas, make sure to soak them overnight and cook them separately before adding them to the soup.
- Vegetarian Option: This recipe is naturally vegetarian, but for extra richness, you can add lamb or beef. Just brown the meat with the onions and garlic before adding the broth.
- Spice Adjustment: Adjust the level of spices according to your taste. For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or increase the paprika.
- Freezing: Harira freezes well, so you can make a large batch and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Conclusion
Harira is a flavorful and hearty Moroccan soup that’s perfect for those looking for a comforting and nutritious meal. This Best Harira Recipe combines lentils, chickpeas, and tomatoes with a fragrant blend of spices to create a warming dish that’s rich in flavor. Whether you’re enjoying it during Ramadan or any other time of the year, Harira is a versatile and satisfying soup that will nourish and delight. Serve it with fresh lemon wedges and enjoy the delicious flavors of this traditional Moroccan soup!