Moroccan Harira (Tomato and Lentil Soup)

Ingredients

• 200 g lamb or beef (cut into small cubes)
• 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp turmeric
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 cup dried green lentils (rinsed)
• 1/4 cup chickpeas (soaked overnight)
• 400 g canned diced tomatoes (or 4 fresh tomatoes, chopped)
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro (chopped)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped)
• 1 liter vegetable or chicken broth
• 1/4 cup vermicelli noodles (optional)
• Juice of 1/2 lemon
• Salt to taste