Description
Experience the authentic warmth of Morocco with this hearty, tomato-based legume soup. Traditionally served to break the fast, this soul-warming dish blends tender beef with earthy lentils, chickpeas, and a vibrant aromatic base of celery, parsley, and cilantro. Infused with aromatic spices like turmeric, ginger, and cinnamon, it is a one-pot meal that provides nourishment and comfort, becoming even more flavorful the next day. Perfect for family gatherings or wholesome meal prep.
Ingredients
350g beef or veal, cut into 1/4 inch cubes
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 large yellow onions, finely diced
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 teaspoons ground ginger
1 teaspoon ground turmeric
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 cup brown lentils, rinsed
1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained
1 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
1 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
2 stalks celery, blended into a paste
8 cups water or beef broth
1/2 cup vermicelli noodles
Instructions
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Add the beef cubes and diced onions, sautéing until the meat is browned and onions are translucent.
Stir in the tomato paste, ginger, turmeric, black pepper, and cinnamon, cooking for 2 minutes to toast the spices.
Add the blended celery, fresh parsley, and cilantro to the pot.
Pour in the lentils, chickpeas, and water (or broth).
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for about 45-60 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
Stir in the vermicelli noodles and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until tender.
Serve hot, optionally with a wedge of lemon on the side.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The soup thickens over time; simply add a splash of water when reheating. For a vegetarian version, substitute beef with extra hearty vegetables like chopped carrots and additional legumes.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 70
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop Simmering
- Cuisine: Moroccan
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 9g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 45mg