Moroccan Harira Soup (Slow Cooker Recipe)
A classic Moroccan tomato‑and‑legume soup traditionally enjoyed during Ramadan and festive gatherings. Heartwarming, aromatic, and rich with chickpeas, lentils, herbs, and spices—with minimal fuss in the slow cooker.
Moroccan Harira Soup (Slow Cooker Recipe)
6
servings15
minutes6
hours260
kcalIngredients
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 medium carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
1 (14-ounce) can diced tomatoes (or equivalent fresh tomatoes, chopped)
1½ cups cooked chickpeas (drained, or use canned after rinsing)
1 cup red lentils, rinsed
6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon ground turmeric
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground ginger
½ teaspoon black pepper
Salt to taste
½ cup chopped fresh cilantro
½ cup chopped fresh parsley
¼ to ½ cup vermicelli or small broken noodles (optional)
Lemon wedges for serving (optional)
Directions
- In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 4–5 minutes until aromatic and starting to soften.
- Transfer the sautéed vegetables into your slow cooker. Add diced tomatoes, chickpeas, lentils, and the broth.
- Stir in the cumin, coriander, turmeric, cinnamon, ginger, black pepper, and salt until combined.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6 to 8 hours or on HIGH for about 4 hours. If using noodles, add them during the last 15 minutes so they don’t become mushy.
- Before serving, stir in the chopped cilantro and parsley.
- Ladle the soup into bowls. Squeeze lemon juice over each serving if desired. Serve hot.
Why This Recipe Works
- The blend of cumin, coriander, turmeric, ginger, cinnamon, and herbs gives Harira its signature warm and fragrant flavor.
- Chickpeas and lentils provide texture, body, and protein, making the soup hearty and satisfying.
- Slow cooking melds all the spices and vegetables deeply into the broth, while preserving delicate herbs added at the end.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with warm pita, crusty bread, or Moroccan flatbread for dipping.
- Accompany with dates or olives for a more traditional presentation.
- Offer lemon wedges and extra chopped herbs at the table.
Tips & Variations
- For a heartier version, add diced lamb or beef early in the cooking process.
- Omit noodles and rice if you prefer a gluten-free version.
- If you like a thicker soup, mash some of the chickpeas or lentils before serving.
- Make it spicier by adding cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes.
Final Thoughts
This Moroccan Harira Soup brings together layers of warm spices, wholesome legumes, and fresh herbs in a convenient slow‑cooker format. It’s nourishing, aromatic, and full of texture—perfect for cozy meals or festive tables. Make a batch, and you’ll have a flavorful tradition in every bowl.
