Healthy Crockpot Moroccan Lentils

Name: Healthy Crockpot Moroccan Lentils
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 8 h
Total time: 8 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed; 3 cups vegetable broth; 1 onion, chopped; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 1/4 cup raisins; 2 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp ground coriander; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 cups spinach or kale, roughly chopped; Juice of 1 lemon

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love making Healthy Crockpot Moroccan Lentils when I want a hearty meal with minimal effort. This dish offers a unique blend of spices that infuse the lentils with rich flavors, while the crockpot does all the work. With vibrant veggies and protein-packed lentils, it’s a nutritious choice for any day of the week. I appreciate that it’s not just healthy but also incredibly satisfying, making it a perfect option for family dinners or meal prep for the week ahead.

Created by

Amelia Grant

Last updated on 2026-01-14T00:52:17.056Z

Trying out Healthy Crockpot Moroccan Lentils transformed my approach to meal prep. I was amazed to see how the combination of lentils, spices, and vegetables creates a dish that's both comforting and nutritious. The slow cooking method allows the flavors to meld beautifully, which is something I've found enhances the overall taste significantly.

While making this dish, I discovered the importance of toasting the spices before adding them to the lentils. This simple step elevates the dish by intensifying the flavors and aroma, making it even more delightful. I can't wait to share this recipe with friends!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Packed with protein and fiber for a filling meal
Aromatic spices create an unforgettable flavor experience
Convenient one-pot dish that saves you time and effort

      

Understanding Lentils

Lentils are a nutritious legume that not only provide protein but also a wealth of vitamins and minerals. In this recipe, dried green or brown lentils are recommended for their ability to hold their shape during the cooking process, delivering a pleasant texture. Rinsing the lentils before cooking helps to remove any debris or residual starch, ensuring a cleaner tasting and more digestible dish. When cooked, they absorb the vegetable broth and aromatic spices, enhancing their natural flavor and adding depth to the overall dish.

The key to successful lentil cooking is to achieve the right softness without turning them into mush. Cooking them in a crockpot at low heat over 8 hours allows them to absorb flavors while maintaining their integrity. You’ll know they are done when they’re tender but still slightly firm to the bite, ensuring a satisfying texture that complements the other vibrant ingredients.

Spice Blending for Flavor

The spice blend in this recipe is what sets it apart and elevates the entire dish to new heights. Ground cumin, coriander, and cinnamon contribute warm and earthy notes while cayenne pepper adds a touch of heat. I recommend adjusting the cayenne to your heat preference; if you enjoy a milder dish, consider starting with half the amount and adding more to taste later. These spices not only enhance flavor but also bring health benefits, making this dish as nourishing as it is delicious.

As the lentils cook, the aromatic spices mingle and infuse their essence into every bite. If you find that the spices need a little extra punch, try toasting them in a dry skillet for a few minutes before adding them to the crockpot. This enhances their fragrance and complexity, making the dish even more tempting. Just be sure to watch them closely to avoid burning!

Storing and Serving Suggestions

The Healthy Crockpot Moroccan Lentils can make excellent leftovers. Store any uneaten portion in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. When reheating, a splash of vegetable broth can help restore moisture and enhance flavor. Simply reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.

For serving, this dish pairs wonderfully with crusty whole grain bread or over a bed of fluffy quinoa or rice. Consider a dollop of plain yogurt or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like cilantro for added freshness and a pop of color. For a variation, try incorporating different vegetables like bell peppers or sweet potatoes into the recipe, or add chickpeas for extra protein and texture.

Ingredients

Healthy Ingredients

1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed
3 cups vegetable broth
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
1/4 cup raisins
2 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp ground coriander
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 cups spinach or kale, roughly chopped
Juice of 1 lemon

Instructions:

Steps

Prepare the Ingredients

In a large crockpot, add the rinsed lentils, vegetable broth, chopped onion, diced carrots, diced celery, minced garlic, diced tomatoes, raisins, and all spices. Stir well to combine.

Slow Cook the Dish

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

Final Touches

Once cooked, stir in the chopped spinach or kale and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and allow the greens to wilt before serving.

Serve your delicious Moroccan lentils warm, either on their own or over cooked rice or quinoa for an extra hearty meal.

Pro Tips

For extra depth of flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of harissa paste before serving. This adds a lovely heat and complexity that complements the dish beautifully.

Meal Prep Tips

This recipe is excellent for meal prepping since it holds up well in the fridge and flavors improve over time. I often make a double batch to have plenty of lunches ready for the week. Portion it out into meal prep containers, and you’ll have a healthy, balanced meal at your fingertips. When prepping, just ensure you let the lentils cool completely before sealing them in containers to avoid condensation build-up.

If you're short on time during the week, consider prepping some ingredients ahead. Chop the onions, carrots, and celery in advance, and store them in the refrigerator. This can save you about 10-15 minutes on cooking day, making this healthy dish even more convenient to prepare on a busy schedule.

Flavor Variations

Feel free to experiment with the flavor profile of the lentils by swapping out seasonal vegetables or different leafy greens. For a twist, try adding diced bell peppers, zucchini, or butternut squash, which can provide additional sweetness and texture. You can also play around with the spices, adding a pinch of turmeric for color or even a dash of smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness.

If you're looking to make it a heartier dish, consider stirring in cooked grains like barley or farro just before serving. This can transform your lentil dish into a more filling meal that feels satisfying and aligns with your dietary goals.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned lentils instead of dried?

Yes, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time to avoid overcooking. Add them during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

These lentils are great on their own, but you can serve them over rice or quinoa for a complete meal.

→ How long do leftovers last?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days, or freeze for up to three months.

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Absolutely! This recipe is already vegan-friendly since it uses vegetable broth and plant-based ingredients.