Name: Lamb and Chickpea Stew (Harira)
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h 15 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Yield: 6 Servings
Cuisine: Arabian,Moroccan
Ingredients: lamb, cut into small pieces: 500g (1 lb); canned or soaked chickpeas: 1 cup; lentils: 1/2 cup; onion, finely chopped: 1 large; tomatoes, blended or finely chopped: 2; garlic, minced: 3 cloves; tomato paste: 2 tbsp; celery, chopped: 1/2 cup; fresh parsley, chopped: 1/2 cup; fresh cilantro, chopped: 1/2 cup; ground cumin: 1 tsp; ground cinnamon: 1 tsp; turmeric: 1/2 tsp; paprika: 1/2 tsp; black pepper: 1/2 tsp; salt (adjust to taste): 1 tsp; beef or vegetable broth: 6 cups; olive oil: 2 tbsp; vermicelli or broken angel hair pasta (optional): 1/4 cup; all-purpose flour mixed with 1/4 cup water (for thickening): 1 tbsp; lemon wedges for serving

Ingredients

500g (1 lb) lamb, cut into small pieces

1 cup canned or soaked chickpeas

1/2 cup lentils

1 large onion, finely chopped

2 tomatoes, blended or finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 tbsp tomato paste

1/2 cup celery, chopped

1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped

1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

1 tsp ground cumin

1 tsp ground cinnamon

1/2 tsp turmeric

1/2 tsp paprika

1/2 tsp black pepper

1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)

6 cups beef or vegetable broth

2 tbsp olive oil

1/4 cup vermicelli or broken angel hair pasta (optional)

1 tbsp all-purpose flour mixed with 1/4 cup water (for thickening)

lemon wedges for serving

Directions

Lamb and Chickpea Stew (Harira) is a traditional Moroccan soup known for its rich flavors and nourishing ingredients. This comforting dish is especially popular during Ramadan, as it provides warmth and sustenance after a long day of fasting.

Made with tender lamb, hearty chickpeas, and nutritious lentils, Harira is simmered in a fragrant tomato-based broth infused with aromatic spices such as cumin, cinnamon, paprika, and turmeric. Fresh parsley, cilantro, and celery add a refreshing depth to the stew, while a touch of vermicelli or broken pasta enhances its texture.

The stew is thickened with a light flour mixture, giving it a velvety consistency that perfectly complements the tender meat and legumes. Served hot with a squeeze of fresh lemon and crusty bread, Harira is a wholesome and satisfying meal that brings families and friends together.

Whether enjoyed during Ramadan or as a comforting dish on a chilly evening, this Lamb and Chickpea Stew is a timeless recipe full of warmth and flavor.

Nutritional Disclaimer: The nutritional information provided is an estimate and may vary based on ingredient brands, portion sizes, and cooking methods. It is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional dietary advice. Always consult a nutritionist or healthcare provider for specific dietary needs.

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Steps

1 Done	Sauté the Aromatics Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and garlic; sauté until fragrant.
2 Done	Cook the Lamb Add lamb pieces and brown them on all sides.
3 Done	Add Spices & Vegetables Stir in cumin, cinnamon, turmeric, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Add chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, celery, parsley, and cilantro. Cook for 5 minutes until the tomatoes break down.
4 Done	Simmer the Stew Pour in the broth and bring to a boil. Add chickpeas and lentils. Reduce heat and let it simmer for 45–60 minutes until the lamb is tender.
5 Done	Thicken the Stew Stir in the flour-water mixture and mix well.
6 Done	Add Vermicelli (Optional) Add vermicelli or broken pasta and cook for another 10 minutes.
7 Done	Final Touches Adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot with a squeeze of lemon and crusty bread. Enjoy this traditional Harira as a comforting meal, especially during Ramadan!