Spiced Moroccan Lentil Soup

Warm, Nourishing Flavors with a Blend of Traditional Moroccan Spices

Inspired by Moroccan culinary traditions, this Spiced Moroccan Lentil Soup combines lentils, vegetables, and warming spices like cumin and cinnamon for a rich, comforting dish. Vegan and hearty, it’s perfect for cozy, cold-weather meals.

Spiced Moroccan Lentil Soup – Hearty, Vegan & Flavorful Middle Eastern Soup Recipe

DifficultyEasy

Servings4-6

Prep time15 minutes

Cook time35 minutes

Total time50 minutes

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Soup Base:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large carrot, large carrot
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, (optional for smokiness)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt

For the Soup:

• 1 1/2 cups dried green or brown lentils, rinsed
• 6 cups vegetable broth, (or water)
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
• 1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped, (optional but adds sweetness)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped, (for garnish)

Instructions:

• 1

  Sauté Vegetables and Spices:

  • • In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, until softened.
    • Add the minced garlic, cumin, coriander, turmeric, cinnamon, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Stir well and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the spices become fragrant.
• 2

  Cook the Lentils:

  • • Add the rinsed lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, and apricots to the pot. Stir to combine.
    • Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 30-35 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and the soup has thickened. Stir occasionally.
• 3

  Finish the Soup:

  • • Once the lentils are cooked, stir in the lemon juice to brighten the flavors. Taste and adjust seasonings, adding more salt or spices if desired.
• 4

  Serve:

  • • Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve hot with crusty bread or pita on the side.

Equipment

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Stirring spoon
• Measuring spoons and cups

Recipe Notes & Variations:

Substitutions:

• Lentils: Green or brown lentils work best for this recipe, but red lentils can also be used for a softer, more mushy soup texture.
• Broth: If you prefer a non-vegan version, you can use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth.
• Sweetness: The apricots add a touch of sweetness, but you can substitute them with raisins or dates if preferred.
• Spices: Adjust the spice levels by adding more paprika or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.

Pro Tips:

• Consistency: If the soup thickens too much after cooking, you can add more vegetable broth or water to adjust the consistency.
• Make it spicier: For a more intense flavor, add extra ground cumin and cinnamon or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Batch cooking: This soup freezes well! Store in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

FAQs:

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

• Yes, this soup improves in flavor after sitting for a few hours. You can prepare it the day before and store it in the refrigerator.
  Can I substitute the apricots?
• Yes, raisins or dates work well in place of apricots, adding a similar sweet touch.

Storage & Reheating Instructions:

• Storage: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding more broth or water if necessary.

Nutrition

Calories	250
Carbohydrates	45g
Cholesterol	0mg
Fat	6g
Fiber	14g
Protein	12g
Saturated Fat	1g
Sodium	800mg
Sugar	10g
Trans Fat	0g
Unsaturated Fat	5g

History, Evolution, and Inspiration

Spiced Moroccan lentil soup draws inspiration from the rich, aromatic flavors of Morocco, known for its use of spices like cumin, cinnamon, and coriander. In the past, Moroccan soups were made to warm and nourish, using simple ingredients such as lentils and vegetables. This soup captures the essence of those traditions, offering a vegan, hearty, and comforting dish perfect for cold weather.

The Art of Cooking Parts of the Recipe

Cooking the vegetables and spices together at the beginning is key to building the depth of flavor in this soup. The caramelization of the onions, carrots, and celery combines with the earthy spices to create a fragrant base that’s essential to the final result. The apricots, while optional, add a delightful sweetness that balances the spiciness and richness of the dish.

Interesting Things About the Recipe

This spiced lentil soup is not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious. Lentils are an excellent source of protein and fiber, making this soup perfect for those following vegetarian or vegan diets. The warming spices used in the recipe have long been known for their anti-inflammatory properties, adding health benefits to every bowl.

Overview of the Parts of the Recipe

• Vegetables: Onions, carrots, and celery form the hearty base of the soup.
• Spices: Ground cumin, coriander, turmeric, and cinnamon add depth and warmth.
• Lentils: The star ingredient, providing protein, fiber, and a satisfying texture.
• Fruits: Sweet apricots balance the spices and give the soup a distinctive flavor.

What Occasions It’s Good For

• Winter Soup Recipe: This warming soup is ideal for cold months, providing nourishment and comfort.
• Vegetarian & Vegan Meals: It’s a perfect meal for anyone following a plant-based diet.
• Hearty Soup: This is a filling, healthy option that can serve as a complete meal.

Why It’s the Perfect Recipe

This Moroccan lentil soup recipe is the perfect winter soup. It’s hearty, flavorful, and packed with healthy ingredients. The combination of spices, lentils, and apricots creates a satisfying balance of savory and sweet, making it an excellent choice for any meal or occasion.