How I Make My Delicious Moroccan Harissa & Chicken Soup: A Step-by-Step Recipe Guide
When I think of cozy comfort food, nothing quite beats a warm bowl of Moroccan Harissa & Chicken Soup. This fragrant and hearty dish is not just a staple in Moroccan cuisine; it’s a beloved meal that I prepare all year round. The blend of spices, fresh herbs, and tender chicken creates a dish that warms both the stomach and the soul. Let’s dive into the delightful experience of cooking this flavorful soup together!
Gather Your Ingredients
Getting the right ingredients set the stage for a delicious soup. While fresh ingredients elevate the flavors, using dried alternatives works just fine. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Soup Base:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 4 celery stalks, diced
- 3 carrots, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 large tomato, diced (or 2 x can of diced tomatoes)
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 2 tbsp harissa
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Chicken:
- 4 large chicken thighs (boneless and skinless)
- 1420 ml chicken broth
For the Final Touches:
- 1 cup lentils (red or green)
- 1/2 cup cooked chickpeas (canned is convenient)
- 1 cup chopped fresh cilantro and parsley
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Optional garnishes: lemon wedges, extra herbs
To brown the chicken, season it and cook in the same pot you are using to make your soup.
Set aside.
Crafting the Flavorful Base
Let’s start by creating a base filled with flavor. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the onions and sauté them until they become soft and translucent, which usually takes about 5 minutes. The aroma is inviting and sets the tone for the soup.
Next, add the diced celery and carrots, stirring occasionally. Cook for roughly 5 minutes until the vegetables soften. Then, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for another minute. Garlic is essential; it brings a lovely richness to the dish!
Now it’s time to layer in the spices. Stir in the ground cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Allow these spices to blend with the vegetables for 1 to 2 minutes. This will release their fragrant oils and fill your kitchen with a delightful scent. Now add the harissa paste and cook for one minute more.
Cooking the Chicken and Broth
With the spices infused, it’s time to introduce the chicken. Place your chicken thighs into the pot, along with the diced tomato, and pour in the chicken broth. Bring everything to a gentle boil.
Cover the pot and lower the heat to let the chicken simmer for about 25 minutes. This process tenderizes the chicken and enhances the broth’s flavor. The anticipation builds as the rich aroma of the soup fills the air.
Adding the Lentils and Chickpeas
After the chicken cooks through, remove it from the pot and let it cool slightly. Meanwhile, add the lentils and chickpeas to the soup. Lentils are not only nutritious but also add texture and heartiness.
Allow the mixture to simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the lentils become tender. This is when the magic happens, and the incredible fragrance becomes even more pronounced.
Once the lentils are ready, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces and return it to the pot. Stir everything together, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Fresh Herbs and Zesty Lemon
Now for the finishing touch! Add the chopped cilantro and parsley, along with the juice of one lemon. Stir well and taste the soup. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed.
This step is where the soup comes alive, adding a refreshing burst that perfectly balances the warmth of the spices.
Enjoying Your Moroccan Harissa & Chicken Soup
Now comes the best part: serving. Ladle the hearty soup into warm bowls and finish with extra herbs and lemon wedges. For an authentic touch, pair it with crusty bread or Moroccan flatbread, known as "khobz."
I enjoy this soup as a comforting solo meal, but it also serves as a fantastic introduction to Moroccan cuisine for guests. Watching friends take their first sips of this delightful soup is always a joy.
Bringing Moroccan Flavors to Your Table
Homemade Moroccan Harissa & Chicken Soup captures the essence of Moroccan flavors in every bowl. It’s perfect for family dinners or a satisfying lunch, and the best part? One pot means easy cleanup.
If you're looking to add some Moroccan flair to your cooking or just want a hearty meal on a chilly day, this recipe is sure to impress. Gather your ingredients and get cooking! I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out—share your tips and variations with me!
Happy cooking!
Comments