Healthy Crockpot Moroccan Lentils

Name: Healthy Crockpot Moroccan Lentils
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 8 h
Total time: 8 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup dried green or brown lentils; 1 large onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 large carrot, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 2 cups vegetable broth; 2 teaspoons ground cumin; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love making Healthy Crockpot Moroccan Lentils because they bring together comforting flavors and wholesome ingredients without the fuss. This dish is perfect for busy days, as I can toss everything into the crockpot and let it work its magic. The blend of spices, lentils, and veggies creates a satisfying meal that's not just healthy but also deeply flavorful. Plus, I adore how it fills the house with aromatic scents while it cooks. It's a perfect recipe for a cozy family dinner or meal prep for the week ahead.

Created by

Maribel Hayes

Last updated on 2026-01-14T04:04:14.607Z

When I first tried making these Moroccan lentils in a crockpot, I was amazed by how the flavors melded together over hours of cooking. The combination of cumin, coriander, and cinnamon lends a delightful warmth that I now associate with comfort food. I find that letting the lentils simmer slowly really enhances their texture and taste, allowing them to absorb all the spices perfectly.

One little tip I've discovered is to add a splash of lemon juice just before serving. It brightens the dish remarkably! So, whether you're serving it over rice or enjoying it alone, this recipe never fails to satisfy my taste buds and warm my heart.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Nutritious, plant-based protein packed with fiber
Aromatic spices that create a warm, inviting meal
Versatile and can be served on its own or with grains

      

The Magic of Lentils

Lentils are not just nutritious; they serve as a fantastic base for absorbing flavors. In this recipe, the green or brown lentils become tender during cooking, providing a delightful texture that contrasts with the crunch of diced vegetables. Their high fiber content aids digestion and keeps you feeling full longer, making this dish satisfying and wholesome. Opting for larger lentils helps them hold their shape better, resulting in a heartier final product.

To ensure that the lentils cook evenly, make sure to rinse them thoroughly. This step removes any debris or dust that may have accumulated during storage, ensuring a clean taste in your final dish. If you’re looking to boost the nutrient density even further, consider adding a cup of chopped kale or spinach about 30 minutes before serving. These greens complement the flavors beautifully and increase the overall health benefits.

Spice It Up

The blend of spices in this recipe—cumin, coriander, and cinnamon—creates a warm, inviting aroma that fills your kitchen. These spices not only enhance the flavor but also offer various health benefits. Cumin aids digestion, while coriander can help with inflammation. If you're looking to adjust the flavor profile, don't hesitate to experiment with additional spices like turmeric or smoked paprika for a different twist.

Another important point is the importance of seasoning. When adding salt and pepper, do so gradually as the lentils cook. This allows you to taste the dish as it develops, ensuring you achieve the perfect balance. Remember, the addition of a splash of lemon juice before serving can brighten the dish, enhancing the overall flavor without overpowering the comforting spices.

Serving and Storing Tips

This Moroccan lentil dish serves beautifully on its own or alongside grains like couscous or quinoa, which you can prepare while the lentils cook. For a heartier meal, consider serving it over roasted sweet potatoes or as a filling in wraps. Pair it with a side salad dressed in a simple vinaigrette to create a balanced plate that highlights the dish's rich flavors and textures.

If you plan to meal prep, this recipe practically begs to be made in larger batches. The leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. It also freezes well, so divide into portions before freezing to save for quick weeknight dinners. When reheating, adding a splash of broth or water can help revive the dish's moisture and texture.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to start your lentil adventure:

Ingredients

1 cup dried green or brown lentils
1 large onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 large carrot, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
2 cups vegetable broth
2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

With these ingredients, you're ready to create a delicious dish!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your crockpot meal:

Prepare the Ingredients

Rinse the lentils under cold water and remove any debris. Chop the onion, garlic, carrot, and bell pepper.

Combine in the Crockpot

Add all the ingredients to the crockpot, including the lentils, diced tomatoes, broth, and spices.

Cook

Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours, or until lentils are tender.

Serve

Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.

Your Healthy Crockpot Moroccan Lentils are ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an added kick, consider including a pinch of cayenne pepper or serve with a dollop of yogurt on top for creaminess.

Ingredient Substitutions

While this recipe is designed with classic ingredients, feel free to customize it based on what you have on hand. For instance, if you don't have bell peppers, zucchini or diced sweet potatoes can make excellent substitutes for added sweetness and texture. Similarly, canned tomatoes can be swapped for fresh tomatoes; just use about four medium fresh tomatoes, diced. Be mindful of the moisture content, as fresh tomatoes might yield a slightly different consistency.

For those on a gluten-free diet, ensure that the vegetable broth you choose is certified gluten-free. Additionally, if you want to add a bit of creaminess, stir in some coconut milk at the end of cooking; this addition complements the spices and adds a delightful richness.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you find the lentils are still hard after the designated cooking time, make sure you're using the correct type of lentils. Green and brown lentils generally require 4 to 8 hours on low heat or 2 to 4 hours on high heat. If needed, give them additional time, checking every 15 to 20 minutes until tender. Overcooking can lead to mushiness, so aim to keep an eye as you get close to the end of the cooking time.

Another common issue is under-seasoning. If your lentils taste bland at the end, don't hesitate to adjust the seasoning. Sometimes, a little splash of vinegar can elevate the flavors and bring everything together, but always taste first to find the right balance before adjusting.

Variations to Try

To mix things up, consider adding dried fruits like raisins or apricots in the last hour of cooking. This can add a delightful sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the spices. For a smoky flavor, try incorporating a few drops of liquid smoke or smoked paprika. This will create a layered flavor profile that elevates the dish even further.

For added protein, you can stir in some canned chickpeas just before serving. This not only provides a nice texture contrast but also increases the overall protein content, making the meal even more satisfying. To cater to spice lovers, a pinch of cayenne pepper can bring some heat to the dish, balancing the warmth of the other spices perfectly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned lentils instead of dried?

You can, but reduce the cooking time, as canned lentils are already cooked. Add them in the last hour of cooking.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to include spinach, zucchini, or sweet potatoes based on your preferences!

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prep the ingredients in advance and store them in the fridge until you're ready to cook.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.