Harira M'chermla

Harira M'chermla is a traditional Moroccan soup known for its rich and hearty flavors. Often enjoyed during Ramadan as a staple dish for breaking fast, it is an aromatic blend of tomatoes, chickpeas, and lentils, simmered to perfection with a variety of spices. This iconic soup holds not just nutritional value but also cultural significance, representing comfort and warmth in Moroccan households.

Background and History

The origins of Harira M'chermla trace back centuries in Moroccan and Algerian kitchen culture. An essential dish in North African cuisine, Harira is believed to have evolved through the influences of Berber and Arab culinary traditions. Each region brings its unique twist to this beloved soup, often based on local produce and family traditions. What remains consistent, however, is Harira's place as an essential iftar meal during the holy month of Ramadan, symbolizing unity and community.

Ingredients

Below are the ingredients you will need to make Harira M'chermla. Click on each ingredient for more details and tips on buying the perfect produce.

• Tomatoes - 6, ripe and chopped
• Chickpeas - 1 cup, cooked
• Lentils - 1 cup, green or brown
• Onion - 1 large, finely chopped
• Celery - 3 stalks, chopped
• Parsley - 1/4 cup, fresh and chopped
• Coriander - 1/4 cup, fresh and chopped
• Rice - 1/4 cup, preferably vermicelli or broken spaghetti
• Flour - 2 tablespoons, for thickening
• Ginger - 1 teaspoon, ground
• Turmeric - 1 teaspoon
• Black pepper - 1 teaspoon
• Salt - 1 teaspoon, or to taste
• Beef - 300 grams, cut into cubes (optional for more hearty version)
• Water - 8 cups
• Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
• Saffron - a pinch, infused in warm water (optional)

Preparation

Step 1: Initial Prep

Begin by preparing all ingredients. Rinse the lentils and rice. Chop onion and celery, and set aside the parsley and coriander. If you are including beef, cut it into small cubes and season with a bit of salt and pepper.

Step 2: Start Cooking

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and celery, sautéing until they become translucent. If using beef, add it now and brown on all sides.

Step 3: Build the Base

Stir in the tomatoes, crushing them gently with the back of a spoon as you mix them with the onion and celery. Add the ginger, turmeric, black pepper, and more salt if desired. If using, add the saffron infusion now.

Step 4: Simmer

Add the water and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer, covering the pot and allowing it to cook for about an hour. Check periodically, stirring to ensure nothing sticks to the bottom of the pot. This is a good time to check your cooking timer.

Step 5: Add Lentils and Chickpeas

After 30 minutes of simmering, add the rinsed lentils and cooked chickpeas. Continue to simmer gently until the lentils are tender.

Step 6: Final Touches

Mix the flour with a little cold water to create a slurry, then slowly add it to the soup, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Add the rice or pasta as well, allowing an additional 10-15 minutes of cooking.

Step 7: Season and Serve

Once everything is cooked through, adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as necessary. Add the chopped parsley and coriander just before serving.

Enjoying Harira M'chermla

Harira is traditionally served warm, accompanied by a slice of lemon and paired with dates or figs for a complete iftar meal. This comforting soup is perfect for cold evenings or celebrations, enjoyed best in the company of family and friends.