Casablanca Harira Bites
Harira is a traditional Moroccan soup that beautifully combines a variety of ingredients to create a rich, flavorful dish. It is commonly consumed to break the fast during Ramadan, making it a dish symbolizing joy and togetherness. Harira showcases the diverse cultures that have influenced Moroccan cuisine, with its origins tracing back to Berber times. Today, we bring you Casablanca Harira Bites, a delightful twist on this classic dish, perfect for appetizers or a light meal.
Ingredients
- Chickpeas
- Lentils
- Onion
- Celery
- Tomatoes
- Garlic
- Coriander
- Parsley
- Ginger
- Saffron
- Flour
- Olive Oil
- Salt
- Pepper
- Cumin
- Paprika
- Egg
- Water
- Lemon
Preparation
Step 1: Soak and Cook the Legumes
Begin by soaking the chickpeas and lentils overnight in water. Drain and rinse them before cooking. Place them in a pot with fresh water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until tender.
Step 2: Prepare the Base
Dice the onion, chop the celery, and crush the garlic. In a large pan, heat olive oil and sauté the onion until translucent. Add celery and garlic, cooking until fragrant.
Step 3: Create the Sauce
Blend fresh tomatoes until smooth. Add the tomato puree to the pan along with chopped coriander, parsley, ginger, and saffron. Season with salt, pepper, cumin, and paprika. Let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes.
Step 4: Form the Bites
Drain the cooked chickpeas and lentils and mash them together. Mix with the sauce to form a thick paste. Cool the mixture slightly. In a bowl, mix flour with an egg and some water to create a batter. Shape the mixture into small bites, dip in the batter, and set aside.
Step 5: Cook the Bites
In a frying pan, heat more olive oil. Once hot, fry the bites until golden brown on all sides. This should take about 4-5 minutes per side. Check your cooking timer to ensure perfect timing.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Casablanca Harira Bites hot, accompanied by a wedge of lemon for a refreshing zest. These bites pair wonderfully with a small salad or as part of a mezze platter.
Enjoying Your Meal
Casablanca Harira Bites are best enjoyed at social gatherings or as a comforting snack for the family. Their aromatic spices and crispy texture make them an irresistible treat. Serve with mint tea or your favorite beverage to capture the true essence of Moroccan dining.