California-inspired Harira Soup

Ingredients

In this California-inspired adaptation of Harira, we incorporate the flavors and ingredients commonly found in California cuisine. We add seasonal vegetables like kale, sweet potatoes, and bell peppers to enhance the nutritional profile and add a vibrant touch. Additionally, we garnish the soup with avocado slices and a squeeze of lime juice to give it a refreshing and zesty twist. We alse have the original recipe for Harira, so you can check it out.

• 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil
• 1 onion, diced 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes
• 4 cups (950ml) vegetable broth 4 cups (950ml) vegetable broth
• 1 cup (200g) red lentils 1 cup (200g) red lentils
• 1 sweet potato, peeled and diced 1 sweet potato, peeled and diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced 1 bell pepper, diced
• 2 cups (60g) chopped kale 2 cups (60g) chopped kale
• Juice of 1 lime Juice of 1 lime
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Avocado slices, for garnish Avocado slices, for garnish
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 52g, 10g
• Protein: 14g
• Fiber: 12g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté until translucent.
2. 2.
   Add ground cumin, turmeric, paprika, and cinnamon to the pot. Stir well to coat the onions and garlic with the spices.
3. 3.
   Pour in the diced tomatoes and vegetable broth. Stir to combine.
4. 4.
   Add red lentils, sweet potato, and bell pepper to the pot. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the lentils and vegetables are tender.
5. 5.
   Stir in the chopped kale and lime juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. 6.
   Simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
7. 7.
   Ladle the California-inspired Harira soup into bowls and garnish with avocado slices and fresh cilantro.
8. 8.
   Serve hot and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Lentils — Rinse the lentils thoroughly before using to remove any debris or impurities.
• Kale — Remove the tough stems and chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces for a pleasant texture in the soup.
• Sweet potato — Peel the sweet potato before dicing it to ensure a smooth and creamy consistency in the soup.
• Avocado — Choose ripe avocados and slice them just before serving to prevent browning.
• Lime — Squeeze fresh lime juice for the best flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
• Customize the soup by adding other seasonal vegetables like zucchini or corn.
• Serve the Harira soup with a side of crusty bread or warm tortillas for a heartier meal.
• Make a larger batch and freeze the leftovers for quick and convenient meals.
• Experiment with different herbs and spices to suit your taste preferences.

Serving advice

Serve the California-inspired Harira soup hot in individual bowls. Garnish each bowl with avocado slices and fresh cilantro for added freshness and visual appeal. Accompany the soup with a side of warm bread or tortillas for a satisfying meal.

Presentation advice

Present the California-inspired Harira soup in rustic ceramic bowls to showcase the vibrant colors of the vegetables. Place avocado slices and fresh cilantro on top as a garnish. Serve the soup alongside a slice of crusty bread or warm tortillas for a visually appealing and complete presentation.