Why You’ll Love Moroccan Lentil Soup Recipe
This Moroccan Lentil Soup is both simple and incredibly satisfying. It uses pantry staples and affordable ingredients while delivering bold, layered flavor. The blend of cumin, turmeric, paprika, and cinnamon creates warmth without overpowering the dish.
It’s naturally plant-based, packed with protein and fiber, and ideal for meal prep since it tastes even better the next day. Whether you’re cooking for your family or preparing lunches for the week, this soup is a reliable and delicious choice.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 cup dried lentils, rinsed
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 carrots, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 can diced tomatoes
4 cups vegetable broth
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
Directions
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Rinse the lentils thoroughly under cold water and set aside.
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In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and carrots, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 5–7 minutes.
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Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
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Add cumin, paprika, turmeric, and cinnamon. Stir well to coat the vegetables and toast the spices for about 1 minute.
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Pour in the diced tomatoes and vegetable broth, stirring to combine.
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Add the lentils and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
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Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30–40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
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Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
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For a slightly thicker texture, blend a small portion of the soup and stir it back in.
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Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or parsley.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4 generous portions
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 35–40 minutes
Total time: Approximately 55 minutes
Variations
For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes.
Stir in chopped spinach or kale during the last five minutes of cooking for extra greens.
Add diced sweet potatoes for a heartier, slightly sweeter twist.
For a creamier texture, blend half of the soup before serving.
If you’re not strictly vegetarian, chicken broth can be used instead of vegetable broth for added richness.
Storage/Reheating
Allow the soup to cool completely before storing. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
To reheat, warm it gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water or broth if the soup has thickened too much.
This soup also freezes well. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQs
Can I use red lentils instead of brown or green lentils?
Yes, red lentils work well but will cook faster and create a softer, creamier texture. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Do I need to soak the lentils beforehand?
No soaking is required for most lentils used in this recipe. Simply rinse and cook.
Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, the soup is naturally gluten-free as long as your vegetable broth is certified gluten-free.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes. Sauté the vegetables and spices first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours.
How can I make the soup thicker?
Blend part of the soup and stir it back into the pot, or allow it to simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes.
What can I serve with Moroccan Lentil Soup?
It pairs beautifully with crusty bread, warm flatbread, or a simple side salad.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely. Celery, zucchini, bell peppers, or sweet potatoes are excellent additions.
Is this soup high in protein?
Yes, lentils are an excellent plant-based protein source, making this soup both filling and nutritious.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, and it often tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.
Can I freeze individual portions?
Yes, portioning the soup before freezing makes it easy to thaw and reheat single servings as needed.
Conclusion
Moroccan Lentil Soup is a wholesome, flavorful dish that delivers comfort in every spoonful. With its rich blend of warming spices, hearty lentils, and nourishing vegetables, it’s an easy recipe you’ll return to again and again. Perfect for cold evenings or meal prep days, this soup proves that simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavor.
