Harira

Instructions

1. Drain and rinse the soaked chickpeas. Set them aside.
2. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and celery, and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic, cinnamon, ginger, turmeric, black pepper, and salt. Stir well and cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, chicken or vegetable broth, chickpeas, and lentils. Bring to a boil over high heat.
5. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the soup simmer for about 1 hour, or until the chickpeas and lentils are tender.
6. Add the chopped cilantro, parsley, and lemon juice. Stir to combine and adjust seasoning with more salt if needed.
7. Add the broken vermicelli or thin spaghetti and simmer until the pasta is cooked, about 8-10 minutes.
8. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
9. Serve hot, garnished with additional cilantro or parsley if desired.