Lentil Harira with Spiced Coconut Milk: A Moroccan Twist on Comfort Food

Harira is a beloved Moroccan soup, traditionally packed with lentils, chickpeas, tomatoes, and fragrant spices. But today, we’re giving it an exciting makeover by adding creamy coconut milk to the mix. This subtle, sweet touch elevates the soup’s richness, balancing beautifully with the bold flavors of Ras el hanout, cumin, and ginger. The result? A warm, soul-soothing bowl of comfort perfect for cozy nights.

Ingredients:

1 cup dried lentils, rinsed

1 can (14 oz) coconut milk

2 cups vegetable broth

1 onion, finely chopped

2 garlic cloves, minced

1 tsp Ras el hanout

1 tsp cumin

½ tsp ground ginger

½ tsp turmeric

1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes

1 tbsp tomato paste

1 tbsp olive oil

1 lemon, juiced

Fresh cilantro for garnish

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.

Add the Spices: Stir in Ras el hanout, cumin, ginger, and turmeric. Allow the spices to bloom for 1 minute, releasing their aroma and flavor.

Incorporate the Lentils: Add the lentils to the pot, stirring to coat them in the spiced onion mixture.

Pour in Liquids: Add the vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and coconut milk. Stir to combine everything, and bring the soup to a simmer.

Cook Until Tender: Reduce the heat, cover the pot, and let the Harira cook for 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Season and Finish: Once the lentils are soft, season the soup with salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Adjust seasoning to taste, adding more spices if needed.

Garnish and Serve: Ladle the Harira into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve hot with crusty bread or over rice.

A New Spin on Tradition

This Lentil Harira with Spiced Coconut Milk brings a delightful richness to the Moroccan classic. The coconut milk complements the warming spices, offering a creamy, fragrant twist on a beloved soup. Whether you're familiar with Harira or trying it for the first time, this version is sure to become a favorite.