Harira Viscosa

Harira Viscosa is a traditional North African soup famed for its thick, luscious texture and rich blend of spices. Originating from the Maghreb region, particularly Morocco, this soup is a staple during the month of Ramadan, serving as a comforting dish to break the fast. Over the years, Harira has transcended its cultural boundaries to become cherished in various parts of the world. The term "viscosa" in its name refers to the soup's smooth and thick consistency, which is achieved by a unique blend of ingredients and meticulous cooking.

Ingredients

The magic of Harira Viscosa lies in its ingredients. Make sure you have these ready:

• Chickpeas - 1 cup, soaked overnight
• Lamb (or beef) - 500g, cubed
• Onions - 2, finely chopped
• Celery - 2 stalks, chopped
• Carrots - 2, diced
• Tomatoes - 3, finely chopped
• Tomato paste - 2 tbsp
• Ginger - 1 tsp, grated
• Cinnamon - 1 tsp
• Turmeric - 1 tsp
• Black pepper - 1/2 tsp
• Coriander - 1 bunch, chopped
• Parsley - 1 bunch, chopped
• All-purpose flour - 3 tbsp
• Water - 5 cups
• Salt - to taste
• Olive oil - 2 tbsp

Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the Chickpeas

Soak the chickpeas overnight to soften them. The next day, drain the water and set them aside. This will ensure that they cook evenly and blend well into the soup.

Step 2: Prepping the Vegetables and Meat

Begin by chopping the onions, celery, and carrots. These are the critical aromatic base for your Harira Viscosa. Cut the lamb into small cubes, as smaller pieces will integrate better into the soup.

Cooking Process

Step 1: The Aromatic Base

Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onions and cook until they become translucent. Stir in the celery and carrots, continuing to sauté until they soften. This base is crucial for building the flavors of the soup.

Step 2: Adding Meat and Spices

Introduce the lamb cubes into the mixture, cooking until they are browned on all sides. Then, sprinkle in the ginger, cinnamon, turmeric, and black pepper, stirring well to coat the meat and vegetables with these warming spices.

Step 3: Simmering the Soup

Add the chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, chickpeas, and water to the pot. Stir to combine all the ingredients. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Let it cook slowly for about one and a half hours, or until the lamb and chickpeas are tender. You may monitor the cooking time with a cooking timer.

Step 4: Thickening the Soup

In a small bowl, mix the flour with a bit of water to create a smooth paste. Gradually whisk this paste into the soup to thicken it. Stir continuously until the soup reaches the desired consistency. Season with salt to taste.

Step 5: Finishing Touches

Lastly, sprinkle in the coriander and parsley. These fresh herbs will add an aromatic green note to the soup, balancing the hearty flavors.

How to Enjoy Harira Viscosa

Harira Viscosa can be enjoyed on its own or served alongside a loaf of crusty bread. The combination of the warm, spiced broth and soft, tender bites of lamb and chickpeas makes it a perfect dish for chilly evenings or for a fulfilling meal during fasting periods. Pair it with mint tea for a traditional touch, or serve it with a simple salad to complement its richness. This hearty soup is not only a delight to the palate but also a nourishing meal that reflects the culinary traditions of North Africa.