Harira (Tomato soup)

Harira is a very popular tomato soup from western Algeria. It is often used during Ramadhan.

Yield: 6-8 servings
Prep Time: 60 minutes
Cook Time: 90 minutes


Ingredients:

• Olive oil -- 1/4 cup
• Lamb, cubed for stews -- 1 pound
• Onion, chopped -- 1 large
• Celery, chopped -- 2 stalks
• Cinnamon -- 1 teaspoon
• Ground ginger -- ½ teaspoon
• Nutmeg -- 1/4 teaspoon
• Saffron -- pinch
• Tomatoes, chopped -- 2 cups
• Water or stock -- 2 quarts
• Chickpeas, cooked and drained -- 2 cups
• Salt and pepper -- to taste
• Cilantro, chopped -- ½ cup
• Parsley, chopped -- ½ cup

Directions:

1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the lamb and brown on all sides. Remove the meat to a plate and set aside.
2. Reduce the heat and add the onions and celery. Sauté until the onions are translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the spices and sauté for another 1-2 minutes.
3. Stir in the tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes. Finally pour in the stock and return the meat to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for about 45 minutes.
4. Add the chickpeas, salt and pepper and simmer for another 20 minutes.
5. Adjust seasoning, stir in the cilantro and parsley and serve.