Harira

Ingredients

• •2 tbsp olive oil
• •1 onion, diced
• •2 celery stalks, diced
• •1 lb lamb or beef, cubed (optional)
• •2 tbsp tomato paste
• •1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• •1 tsp turmeric
• •1 tsp ground ginger
• •1/2 tsp cinnamon
• •1/2 tsp black pepper
• •8 cups water or broth
• •1 cup brown or green lentils
• •1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained
• •1/2 cup vermicelli noodles or rice
• •3 tbsp flour
• •1/2 cup water, for the tedouira
• •Fresh cilantro and parsley, chopped
• •Lemon wedges and dates, for serving

Steps

1. 1.Heat the oil in a large pot and sauté the onion and celery until softened, then add the lamb or beef if using and brown lightly.
2. 2.Stir in the tomato paste and cook for a minute, then add the crushed tomatoes, turmeric, ginger, cinnamon, black pepper, and water or broth.
3. 3.Bring to a simmer, add the lentils, and cook for about 30 minutes until the lentils are nearly tender.
4. 4.Add the chickpeas and vermicelli or rice, and simmer for another 15-20 minutes until everything is fully cooked.