Apricot And Lentil Harira-Style Soup

Inspired by classic harira flavours, this warming lentil soup is gently spiced, deeply comforting and beautifully balanced. Soft dried apricots melt into the broth, adding a subtle sweetness that works perfectly with the tomatoes, spices and earthy lentils. Nourishing, fragrant and made for slow evenings and shared bowls.

Serves: 4

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, crushed
• 1 celery stick, finely diced
• 2 carrots, finely diced
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp turmeric
• 200g red lentils, rinsed
• 1 tin (400g) chopped tomatoes
• 1 litre vegetable stock
• 60g dried apricots, finely chopped
• Salt & black pepper, to taste
• Juice of 1/2 lemon

Method

1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan. Add the onion and cook for 6–8 minutes until soft.
2. Stir in the garlic, celery, and carrot and cook for a further 4 minutes.
3. Add the spices and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add the lentils, tomatoes, stock and chopped apricots.
5. Bring to the boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 20–25 minutes, until the lentils are soft, and the soup has thickened.
6. Season to taste and finish with lemon juice before serving.