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 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 carrots, diced; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp ground coriander; 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

I absolutely love making Healthy Crockpot Moroccan Lentils on busy days when I need a nutritious meal without the fuss. The flavors meld beautifully as they slow-cook, filling my kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma. With a blend of aromatic spices and hearty lentils, this dish is not only filling but also incredibly healthy. I appreciate how I can toss everything in the crockpot in the morning, and by dinner, I have a delicious meal to share with my family and friends.

Created by

Holly James

Last updated on 2026-01-14T00:34:11.812Z

In my quest for healthy, convenient meals, I stumbled upon the magic of Moroccan spices—cumin, coriander, and cinnamon. I experimented with different combinations and found that adding dried apricots gives the lentils a natural sweetness that balances the spices perfectly. The slow cooking not only develops incredible flavors but also ensures that the lentils remain tender.

For added heartiness, I usually serve the lentils over a bed of fluffy couscous or quinoa. It’s a fantastic dish that holds up well in the fridge, making it ideal for meal prep. Plus, I love that it’s packed with plant-based protein and fiber, keeping me energized throughout the day.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Complex flavors from Moroccan spices
Creamy and hearty lentils cooked to perfection
Nutrient-rich and perfect for meal prep

      

Understanding Lentils

Lentils are the star of this dish, providing a hearty texture and substantial nutrition. When cooked, they offer a creamy consistency that absorbs the Moroccan spices beautifully. Make sure to use dried green or brown lentils as they hold their shape well during slow cooking. Avoid red lentils, as they tend to disintegrate and become mushy, which isn't ideal for this recipe.

Rinsing the lentils before use not only cleans them but also helps remove any debris or small stones. This simple step ensures a smoother cooking process. If you notice any discolored lentils while rinsing, it's best to discard those to maintain the dish's quality.

The Role of Spices

The Moroccan spice blend is pivotal in elevating the flavors of this dish. Ground cumin and coriander provide a warm, earthy base, while cinnamon adds a subtle sweetness that balances the savory ingredients. It's important to ensure your spices are fresh to get the best flavor. Old spices can diminish the overall taste, so consider replacing them if they’ve been in your pantry for a while.

Additionally, feel free to adjust the spice levels according to your taste. If you prefer more heat, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of harissa. These heat elements can enhance the depth of flavor without overpowering the dish.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs wonderfully with couscous or quinoa, both of which soak up the flavors of the lentils without overshadowing them. For an extra layer of flavor and texture, consider adding some toasted almonds or feta cheese on top just before serving. These toppings provide a delightful crunch and a tangy contrast to the creamy lentils.

If you have leftovers, they store well in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a bit of vegetable broth if the mixture seems dry. Additionally, this dish freezes very well, so feel free to make a double batch and enjoy it later.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Healthy Crockpot Moroccan Lentils:

Ingredients

1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
4 cups vegetable broth
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp ground coriander
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps to cook your lentils:

Prepare the Lentils

In your crockpot, combine the lentils, onion, garlic, carrots, and red bell pepper.

Add the Rest

Stir in the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and chopped apricots. Season with salt and pepper.

Cook

Set your crockpot on low and let cook for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the lentils are tender.

Serve

Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve over couscous or quinoa.

Let the lentils sit for a few minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.

Pro Tips

Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition. Adjust the spices according to your preference for a milder or bolder flavor.

Make-Ahead Tips

One of the best features of this recipe is its make-ahead potential. You can pre-chop the vegetables and store them in the fridge, significantly reducing your prep time on cooking day. I like to do this the night before so that all I need to do in the morning is toss everything into the crockpot.

If you're planning to freeze the dish, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it up on the stovetop.

Substitutions and Variations

Feel free to customize this recipe by adding other vegetables like zucchini or spinach. These not only boost the nutrition but also add color and variety. If you want a protein boost, consider mixing in some cooked chickpeas or diced sweet potatoes, which complement the Moroccan spices perfectly.

For a vegan option, ensure that you use vegetable broth and skip any cheese toppings. Conversely, if you desire a protein-rich meal, adding shredded chicken or turkey in the last hour of cooking works really well, providing substance while maintaining the dish’s integrity.

Texture and Consistency

The key to achieving the perfect texture in this recipe lies in the cooking time and moisture levels. Ensure that the lentils are submerged adequately in the broth to prevent them from drying out. If you notice that the mixture is getting too thick during cooking, you can add a little more broth to maintain a creamy consistency.

As the lentils cook, they should become tender yet remain slightly firm to the bite. Overcooking can lead to a mushy texture, so be diligent about checking them towards the end of the cooking time, especially if you choose the high setting on your crockpot.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned lentils instead of dried?

Yes, but make sure to adjust the cooking time to avoid overcooking.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Absolutely! This recipe is already vegan-friendly using vegetable broth.

→ What can I substitute for apricots?

You can use raisins or dried figs for a different sweetness.