If you’re a fan of bold, vibrant flavors with a touch of spice, you’ll love Classic Harissa Soup. This Tunisian-inspired dish is a perfect way to warm up on a chilly day, offering a hearty, flavorful meal that satisfies both the stomach and the soul. The combination of cumin, coriander, paprika, and cinnamon with the spicy kick of harissa paste makes this soup a comforting and flavorful experience. It’s also incredibly versatile—great for vegetarians, and you can easily adjust the spice level to your liking.

Growing up, I always associate spicy, hearty soups like this with comfort and family gatherings. The rich aromas that fill the kitchen while simmering make the whole house feel warm, and each spoonful of this soup feels like a hug. Whether you’re enjoying it as a meal or as an appetizer, Harissa Soup is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Ingredients for Classic Harissa Soup:

For the Soup:

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 large tomato, peeled and chopped (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
• 1 tbsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tbsp harissa paste (adjust to taste based on your spice preference)
• 1-2 cups chickpeas, cooked or canned
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1-2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
• Vermicelli pasta (optional, for added texture)

For the Harissa Paste:
If you prefer to make your own harissa paste, here’s a quick and easy recipe:

• 2 red bell peppers, roasted and peeled
• 2 dried red chilies
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt, to taste

Blend everything together until smooth. Store any leftover paste in a jar and refrigerate.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Harissa Paste (if homemade):
Start by soaking the dried chilies in warm water for about 10 minutes to soften them. Once soft, combine them with the roasted bell peppers, garlic, cumin, coriander, tomato paste, olive oil, and salt in a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth, then set aside.

2. Cook the Soup:
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the ground cumin, coriander, paprika, and cinnamon. Cook for another minute to release the spices’ aromas.

3. Add Tomatoes and Harissa Paste:
If using fresh tomatoes, add them to the pot and cook until they break down, about 5 minutes. If using canned tomatoes, just add them and simmer. Add the harissa paste (start with 1 tbsp and adjust later if you like it spicier). Stir well to incorporate the flavors.

4. Add Broth and Chickpeas:
Pour in the broth and bring to a simmer. Add the cooked chickpeas. Let the soup simmer for about 20-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. If you’re adding vermicelli pasta, toss it in during the last 10 minutes of cooking, so it softens up in the broth.

5. Season & Serve:
Season the soup with salt, pepper, and lemon juice to taste. Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley. You can also add a dollop of yogurt or a drizzle of olive oil for extra richness.

Why This Harissa Soup is So Special

This Harissa Soup is more than just a spicy dish; it’s a celebration of flavors. The combination of cumin, paprika, cinnamon, and harissa creates a deep, aromatic base, while the chickpeas add a comforting, hearty texture. The fresh parsley and optional lemon juice provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup. Plus, adding a dollop of yogurt brings a creamy balance that pairs wonderfully with the heat of the harissa.

What I love about this soup is how versatile it is. You can adjust the spice level to suit your preferences, and if you’re looking to make it heartier, adding vermicelli pasta or serving it with crusty bread makes it even more filling. It’s great for a cozy dinner or as part of a larger spread, especially when you want to offer something both flavorful and nourishing.

Perfect for: A comforting meal, a spicy pick-me-up, or an appetizer to share with friends and family.
Enjoy this Classic Harissa Soup, and let the bold flavors and warming spices take you on a journey to Tunisia with each bite!