Healthy Crockpot Moroccan Lentils

Name: Healthy Crockpot Moroccan Lentils
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed; 1 onion, diced; 2 carrots, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp ground coriander; 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/2 tsp turmeric; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love coming home to a warm, hearty meal that practically cooks itself! Making these Healthy Crockpot Moroccan Lentils is one of my favorite things to do when I want a nutritious yet comforting dish. The combination of spices brings out incredible flavors while the lentils provide a satisfying texture. Plus, it’s a set-it-and-forget-it recipe, making it perfect for busy days. You'll love how simple yet flavorful it is—I've made it multiple times and it never fails to please!

Created by

Ella Townsend

Last updated on 2026-01-14T00:37:15.517Z

When I first tried my hand at making lentils in the crockpot, I was amazed at how effortlessly they transformed into a delicious, hearty meal. The secret? Allowing the spices to meld together over time while the lentils absorb all those wonderful flavors. I like to vary the spices based on what's fresh in my pantry, which keeps every batch exciting!

One tip I've learned is to sauté the onions and spices before adding them to the crockpot. This small step enhances the flavor depth immeasurably. It’s such a simple trick that makes a huge difference. Enjoying this dish with a side of yogurt elevates the experience beautifully, and I always find myself going back for seconds!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Aromatic spices that warm the soul
Nutritious and filling without the guilt
Versatile, easy to customize with your favorite veggies

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The choice of lentils is critical for this dish. Green or brown lentils hold their shape well during cooking, providing a satisfying texture that contrasts beautifully with the tender vegetables. Avoid using red lentils, as they tend to break down into a mushier consistency, which may alter the intended texture of your dish. Rinsing the lentils before adding them to the crockpot removes any residue and permits them to cook evenly.

Each spice plays a pivotal role in creating the authentic Moroccan flavor profile. Cumin brings a warm, earthy quality, while coriander adds a citrusy note that brightens the dish. Cinnamon and turmeric contribute warmth and complexity, and they also offer health benefits. If you ever run out of ground spices, you can use whole spices instead. Just remember to remove them before serving!

Cooking Techniques

When sautéing the onions, stir often and watch for a golden color, which should take about 5 minutes. This step enhances the flavor base of your crockpot dish. If your garlic starts to brown too quickly, reduce the heat slightly to avoid burnt bits, which can impart bitterness to the finished meal. You want a fragrant, fragrant aroma before adding the remaining ingredients.

For optimal cooking, the low setting is recommended for a more intense flavor development, allowing the spices to meld with the lentils and veggies over 6-8 hours. If you're in a hurry, the high setting is effective too—just be sure to occasionally stir the mixture to prevent sticking, especially around the edges of the crockpot.

Ingredients

Gather these healthy ingredients to get started:

Ingredients

1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed
1 onion, diced
2 carrots, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
4 cups vegetable broth
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp ground coriander
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp turmeric
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish

With these ingredients ready, you're all set for a delicious meal!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your Healthy Crockpot Moroccan Lentils:

Prepare the Base

In a skillet, heat a bit of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and turmeric, cooking for another minute until fragrant.

Combine All Ingredients

Transfer the sautéed onions and spices into the crockpot. Add the rinsed lentils, chopped carrots, diced tomatoes (with juice), and vegetable broth. Stir to combine.

Cook

Set the crockpot to low and cook for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until lentils are tender. Stir occasionally and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Serve and Garnish

Once cooked, give the lentils a good stir and serve hot. Top with fresh cilantro or parsley for an extra burst of flavor!

Enjoy your warm, hearty meal!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try incorporating other veggies like bell peppers or zucchini. Leftovers taste even better the next day, as the flavors continue to develop!

Make-Ahead Tips

This dish is fantastic for meal prep. You can assemble all the ingredients in the crockpot insert the night before and refrigerate it. In the morning, just set it to cook. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to deepen as they sit together overnight. If you want to enjoy leftovers, the lentils will keep well in the fridge for up to a week.

If sealed properly, you can freeze the lentils for up to three months. Just store them in an airtight container or freezer bags. When you're ready to enjoy, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of vegetable broth or water to prevent drying out.

Serving Suggestions

For an appealing presentation, serve these Moroccan lentils over a bed of fluffy couscous or quinoa. The grains soak up the flavors beautifully and add a nice contrast to the hearty lentils. Pairing with a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of feta cheese can introduce a creamy element that complements the spices.

Additionally, consider offering a side of warm, crusty bread or pita for dipping. The combination of textures—from the tender lentils to crispy bread—will create a delightful dining experience. If you enjoy extra spice, garnish with some chopped jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce to elevate the flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned lentils instead of dried?

Yes, but adjust the cooking time and add them in during the last 30 minutes to avoid overcooking.

→ What can I serve with Moroccan lentils?

These lentils are delicious served with crusty bread, rice, or a side salad.

→ Can I freeze the leftovers?

Absolutely! Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients are gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.