Vegetarian Moroccan Harira Soup Recipe (Gluten-Free)

Oh, sweet friends, there’s nothing quite like the comforting embrace of a warm bowl of soup, especially when it’s filled with vibrant flavors and wholesome goodness. Today, I’m absolutely delighted to share my cherished Moroccan Harira Soup Recipe (Vegetarian & Gf). This soup is a symphony of aromatic spices, hearty lentils, and tender chickpeas, transforming simple ingredients into a truly magical, deeply satisfying meal that warms you from the inside out. It’s a taste of adventure right in your kitchen!

I still remember the first time I tasted a Harira-inspired soup. It was during a winter evening, huddled by the fireplace, and it instantly transported me. It brought back memories of my grandmother’s kitchen, where every dish was made with immense love, turning humble vegetables into something extraordinary. That feeling of warmth and home is exactly what I strive to recreate in my own recipes, and this one truly delivers that hug in a bowl.

This delightful recipe is not only wonderfully hearty and flavorful, making it perfect for cozy family dinners, but it’s also entirely vegetarian and gluten-free, ensuring everyone at your table can enjoy its deliciousness. My secret to making any soup shine? Always use the freshest herbs you can find – they truly lift the entire dish!

What You Need to Make This Recipe

Crafting this delightful soup starts with a blend of aromatic spices like turmeric, ginger, and cinnamon, creating a warm foundation. We then layer in humble yet mighty ingredients such as green lentils, chickpeas, and diced tomatoes, which together build a rich texture and incredible depth of flavor. You’ll find that a Moroccan Harira Soup Recipe (Vegetarian & Gf) truly showcases how simple pantry staples can create something spectacular. The full list of ingredients and precise measurements are waiting for you in the recipe card below!

How to Make Moroccan Harira Soup Recipe (Vegetarian & Gf)

Making this beautiful Moroccan Harira Soup Recipe (Vegetarian & Gf) is a truly joyful process, much like baking a cake from scratch – it’s about building layers of flavor with love. You’ll begin by preparing a fragrant base with onions and spices, then simmer everything gently to let the lentils and chickpeas become wonderfully tender. Finally, we’ll introduce the traditional “tadwira” to thicken it just so, creating that comforting, velvety texture we all adore.

Hearty Vegetarian & GF Moroccan Harira Soup

This comforting Harira soup, traditionally enjoyed during Ramadan, is adapted to be completely vegetarian and gluten-free without sacrificing its authentic Moroccan flavors. Packed with lentils, chickpeas, and a aromatic blend of spices, it’s a wholesome and satisfying meal.

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Prep Time 25 minutes mins

Cook Time 55 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 20 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Moroccan

Calories: 380

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the Soup Base

• 2 tbsp Olive Oil
• 1 medium Yellow Onion finely chopped
• 2 cloves Garlic minced
• 2 stalks Celery diced
• 1 tsp Ground Turmeric
• 1 tsp Ground Ginger
• 1/2 tsp Ground Cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp Sweet Paprika
• 1/4 tsp Black Pepper
• Pinch Saffron Threads optional, for color and aroma
• 1 28-oz can Diced Tomatoes undrained
• 3 tbsp Tomato Paste
• 6 cups Vegetable Broth low sodium
• 1/2 cup Green or Brown Lentils rinsed
• 1 15-oz can Chickpeas rinsed and drained
• 1/2 cup Fresh Cilantro chopped, plus more for garnish
• 1/2 cup Fresh Parsley chopped, plus more for garnish
• 1 tsp Salt or to taste

For the Tadwira (Thickener)

• 1/4 cup Gluten-Free All-Purpose Flour or chickpea flour / cornstarch
• 1/2 cup Cold Water or Vegetable Broth

For Serving

• 2 Lemons cut into wedges

Equipment

• Large Pot or Dutch Oven
• Cutting Board
• Sharp Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk

Method

 

Prepare the Base

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chopped onion and celery, cooking until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add minced garlic, turmeric, ginger, cinnamon, paprika, and black pepper. If using saffron threads, add them now. Cook for 1 minute more, stirring constantly until fragrant.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes (undrained) and tomato paste. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring, allowing the tomato paste to deepen in color.

Simmer the Soup

1. Pour in the vegetable broth and add the rinsed lentils. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30 minutes, or until lentils are tender.
2. Add the rinsed and drained chickpeas to the pot. Continue to simmer, uncovered, for another 10 minutes.

Thicken the Soup (Tadwira)

1. While the soup simmers, prepare the tadwira: In a small bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour (or cornstarch) and cold water (or broth) until completely smooth with no lumps.
2. Gradually pour the tadwira mixture into the simmering soup, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Continue to stir and cook for another 5-7 minutes, until the soup has thickened to your desired consistency. It should be rich and velvety.
3. Stir in the chopped fresh cilantro and parsley. Season with salt to taste, adjusting if necessary.

Serve

1. Ladle the hot Harira soup into bowls. Garnish with extra fresh cilantro or parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing.

Notes

For a smoother soup, you can blend about 1-2 cups of the soup with an immersion blender before adding the tadwira. If you prefer a richer flavor, add a pinch of dried mint during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The soup may thicken further upon cooling; simply thin with a splash of vegetable broth when reheating.

Pro Tips for Making This Moroccan Harira Soup Recipe (Vegetarian & Gf)

Bringing out the best in this Moroccan Harira Soup Recipe (Vegetarian & Gf) is all about a few thoughtful touches, much like adding that extra pinch of cinnamon to a pie. Here are some of my tried-and-true tips to ensure your Harira is nothing short of spectacular.

• Toasting Spices for Depth: Before adding any liquids, gently toast your ground turmeric, ginger, cinnamon, and paprika in the olive oil for about a minute. This truly awakens their aromas and deepens the overall flavor profile of the soup, making every spoonful more vibrant.
• The Power of Saffron: Don’t skip the saffron threads! I always steep them in a little warm broth or water for a few minutes before adding them to the soup. This helps release their beautiful color and unique, subtle floral notes, which are key to an authentic Harira.
• My Secret Trick: I always recommend using a good quality vegetable broth. It makes all the difference! If you’re using a low-sodium broth, you’ll have more control over the seasoning, allowing you to perfectly balance the flavors of your Moroccan Harira Soup Recipe (Vegetarian & Gf) to your liking.
• Perfecting the Tadwira: When adding the gluten-free flour mixture to thicken the soup, ensure you whisk it in slowly while stirring constantly. This prevents lumps and ensures a beautifully smooth, creamy consistency. Let it simmer gently for a few minutes after adding to cook out any raw flour taste.

Fun Variations for Moroccan Harira Soup Recipe (Vegetarian & Gf)

One of the things I adore about home cooking is the freedom to play and make a recipe truly your own, and this Moroccan Harira Soup Recipe (Vegetarian & Gf) is wonderfully adaptable. Think of it as a canvas for your culinary creativity!

Spice It Up

If you love a little warmth, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a small diced jalapeño along with the other spices. My husband always asks for a bit more heat, especially on a chilly evening!

Add Extra Veggies

While this soup is already hearty, feel free to toss in some diced carrots or zucchini during the simmering stage for extra nutrients and texture. Just be sure they’re cut small enough to cook through tenderly.

Herbaceous Twists

Beyond the fresh cilantro and parsley, consider stirring in a handful of fresh mint or a sprinkle of dried oregano right before serving. A friend loves when I add a swirl of pesto to her bowl!

What to Serve With Moroccan Harira Soup Recipe (Vegetarian & Gf)

This heartwarming Moroccan Harira Soup Recipe (Vegetarian & Gf) is a meal in itself, but a few simple accompaniments can make it an even more delightful experience, turning a simple dinner into a cherished memory.

• Crusty Gluten-Free Bread: A thick slice of warm, crusty gluten-free bread is perfect for soaking up every drop of that rich, savory broth. It’s wonderfully comforting!
• Lemon Wedges and Fresh Herbs: Always serve with extra lemon wedges for a bright squeeze and a generous sprinkle of fresh cilantro and parsley. My mom always says the fresh zest truly brightens the flavors.
• Simple Side Salad: A light, crisp green salad with a lemon-tahini dressing offers a lovely contrast to the soup’s richness, making for a balanced and satisfying meal.
• Dates and Nuts: In Morocco, Harira is often enjoyed with dates and sweet pastries to break the fast. You could offer a small plate of dates and almonds on the side for a traditional touch. It’s a wonderful blend of savory and sweet!

How to Store Moroccan Harira Soup Recipe (Vegetarian & Gf)

After all the love you put into making this delicious Moroccan Harira Soup Recipe (Vegetarian & Gf), you’ll want to ensure any leftovers are kept perfectly to enjoy again. Luckily, this soup stores beautifully!

Fridge Storage

Once cooled completely, transfer your leftover Harira soup into airtight containers. It will keep wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, making it perfect for quick, cozy lunches. I always make a double batch so I have some ready to go!

Freezer Friendly

For longer storage, this soup freezes like a dream! Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving a little room for expansion. It will stay delicious in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Just be sure to label with the date.

Reheating Tips

When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight, then gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. You might need to add a splash of vegetable broth or water to achieve your desired consistency. My personal tip? A fresh squeeze of lemon and a sprinkle of new herbs after reheating truly brings it back to life!

Nutritional Benefits

This delightful Moroccan Harira Soup Recipe (Vegetarian & Gf) is not only a treat for the taste buds but also packed with goodness! The lentils and chickpeas provide a wonderful source of plant-based protein and fiber, making it incredibly satisfying and nourishing. It’s a beautiful example of how a comforting dish can be both indulgent and wholesome, aligning perfectly with my philosophy of simple, real ingredients.

FAQs

Can I make this Harira soup spicier?

Absolutely! To add more heat, you can include a pinch of cayenne pepper or a finely diced jalapeño pepper when sautéing the aromatics. Adjust the amount to your personal preference for a bolder kick in your Moroccan Harira Soup Recipe (Vegetarian & Gf).

Can I use different types of lentils or chickpeas?

Yes, feel free to use green or brown lentils; they hold their shape well. For chickpeas, canned ones work perfectly for convenience. You can even try other beans if you prefer, maintaining the hearty nature of this Moroccan Harira Soup Recipe (Vegetarian & Gf).

Is this soup suitable for meal prep?

This Moroccan Harira Soup Recipe (Vegetarian & Gf) is fantastic for meal prep! It tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen. Store individual portions in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3-4 days or freeze for longer enjoyment.

What if my soup is too thick or too thin?

If your soup is too thick, simply add a bit more vegetable broth until it reaches your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, simmer it uncovered for a little longer, or prepare a small amount of extra tadwira (flour and water slurry) to gradually stir in.

Conclusion

There you have it, sweet friends! This Moroccan Harira Soup Recipe (Vegetarian & Gf) is more than just a meal; it’s an experience, a journey of flavor that brings warmth and comfort to any table. It truly embodies the joy of creating something wonderful from scratch, reminding us that with a little love and patience, even the simplest ingredients can transform into magical, memory-making treats. I genuinely hope this recipe inspires you to embrace the joy of homemade cooking and fill your kitchen with delightful aromas and your heart with happy memories. Happy stirring!