Harira (Lamb And Lentil Soup)

Ingredients

 * 175g (6oz) red lentils
 * 100g (4oz) boneless lamb, cut into 2.5cm(1inch) cubes
 * 400g (14oz) can chopped tomatoes
 * 1 large onion, roughly chopped
 * 1 tablespoon mixed Arabic spices
 * 1 small green chilli, finely chopped
 * 3 tablespoons coriander, finely chopped
 * ½ teaspoon *saffron
 * 2 teaspoons salt
 * 1.2litre (2 pints) boiling water

Directions

 * 1) Wash and rinse lentils, then soak in plenty of water for 30 minutes then strain.
 * 2) Pour 1.2 litre (2pints) boiling water into a large saucepan and place on medium heat.  Add the lentils, onions and lamb. Boil for 25 minutes, stirring from time to time.
 * 3) Next add the chopped tomatoes, green chilli and spices to the pan, cover and simmer for 30 minutes.
 * 4) Add the coriander, saffron, salt and pepper, mix, cover and simmer on very low heat for a further 5 minutes.