Moroccan-Spiced Lentil Soup Recipe

Looking for a warm, comforting meal packed with bold flavors and healthy ingredients? Moroccan-Spiced Lentil Soup is the perfect cozy dish. With fragrant spices, protein-rich lentils, and hearty vegetables, this soup is a one-pot wonder that fits any season.

If you’re vegan, gluten-free, or just trying to eat more plants, this recipe delivers on taste and nutrition. Let’s explore why this soup deserves a place in your regular meal rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Warm Moroccan Spices

The soup features classic Moroccan flavors like cumin, cinnamon, turmeric, and paprika. These spices create a warm, rich base with just the right hint of heat.

Packed with Nutrition

Lentils are a great source of plant-based protein, fiber, iron, and folate. Combined with vegetables, this soup becomes a complete, balanced meal.- Learn more about lentils’ nutrition and health benefits

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Simple & Budget-Friendly

It uses pantry staples like lentils, onions, carrots, and broth. One pot, 45 minutes, minimal cleanup.

Naturally Vegan & Gluten-Free

Perfect for those avoiding animal products or gluten. No special ingredients needed.

Great for Meal Prep

This soup stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it an ideal make-ahead lunch or dinner.

Tip: Add a splash of lemon juice or a dollop of yogurt before serving for a flavor boost.

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Ingredients You Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this easy Moroccan lentil soup:

• Lentils (green, brown, or red) – Red lentils cook faster and create a softer texture
• Onion – Adds base flavor
• Carrots & Celery – Classic soup veggies for sweetness and crunch
• Garlic & Fresh Ginger – Bright and aromatic
• Tomato Paste – For richness and color
• Vegetable Broth or Water – The liquid base
• Olive Oil – For sautéing
• Spices:
  • Cumin
  • Coriander
  • Cinnamon
  • Turmeric
  • Paprika
  • (Optional) Cayenne for heat
• Salt & Black Pepper – Season to taste
• Fresh Lemon Juice – For a bright finish
• Fresh Cilantro or Parsley (optional topping)

Optional Add-ins:

• Chickpeas – For extra protein
• Harissa paste – If you love spicy food
• Spinach or Kale – Stir in during the last 5 minutes

Substitution Tip: Don’t have fresh ginger? Use ½ teaspoon ground ginger instead.

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Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions

Let’s walk through each step of making this delicious soup.

Step 1: Sauté Vegetables

• In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
• Add chopped onion, carrot, and celery.
• Cook for 5–7 minutes until soft and lightly golden.

Pro Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Add Garlic, Ginger, and Spices

• Stir in minced garlic and grated fresh ginger.
• Add cumin, coriander, cinnamon, turmeric, and paprika.
• Cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

Why it matters: Blooming the spices in oil brings out their full flavor.

Step 3: Add Tomato Paste and Lentils

• Mix in 1–2 tablespoons of tomato paste.
• Stir to coat the vegetables.
• Add rinsed lentils and toss everything together.

You Also Find Out How to Make Perfect Yellow Lentil Stew in a Crockpot

Step 4: Pour in Broth & Simmer

• Add 5–6 cups of vegetable broth or water.
• Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 30–35 minutes.
• Stir occasionally and check that the lentils are tender.

People Also Ask:
Q: Can I use red lentils instead of green or brown?
A: Yes, red lentils cook faster and give the soup a creamier texture.

Step 5: Finish & Add Fresh Flavor

Once the lentils are fully cooked and tender:

• Add salt and black pepper to taste
• Squeeze in fresh lemon juice for brightness
• Stir in chopped cilantro or parsley (optional)

Optional: For a creamy texture, use an immersion blender to puree half the soup directly in the pot. This thickens it while keeping some chunks for texture.

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Pro Tips & Variations

Use Red Lentils for a Creamier Texture

Red lentils break down quickly and create a thick, smooth base. Great if you prefer a blended feel.

Add Chickpeas

Add 1 can (drained and rinsed) of chickpeas during the last 10 minutes of cooking. This makes it even heartier.

You Can Try This One-Pot Slow Cooker Lentil Stew – So Simple

Try It in a Pressure Cooker or Instant Pot

Save time using a pressure cooker. Cook on high pressure for 12–15 minutes with natural release.

Adjust the Heat

For a spicier soup, add a pinch of cayenne or stir in harissa paste to taste.

Swap Spices or Add More Depth

Smoked paprika, allspice, or a pinch of clove can deepen flavor.

Real-life tip: Some cooks also add chopped sweet potatoes for a bit of sweetness and extra bulk.

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What to Serve With Moroccan Lentil Soup

For more details on why it’s called ‘What to Serve With Moroccan Lentil Soup,’ check out tastesbetterfromscratch.com

Pair your soup with:

• Crusty bread or warm pita – perfect for dipping
• Cooked couscous or quinoa – to turn it into a full meal
• Dairy-free yogurt or sour cream – adds creaminess
• Simple green salad – for a light side

Flavor tip: Add a swirl of olive oil or a spoon of tahini just before serving.

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Storage & Make-Ahead Instructions

How to Store

• Let the soup cool fully before storing
• Keep in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4–5 days
• Freeze in portions for up to 3 months

How to Reheat

• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat
• Add a splash of water or broth to loosen it if too thick

You Can Find the Perfect Balance of Flavor in This Crockpot Lentil Soup

Batch cooking bonus: This soup tastes even better the next day as flavors deepen over time.

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Nutrition & Health Benefits

This soup is as good for your body as it is for your taste buds.

• High in protein and Fiber – thanks to lentils and veggies
• Rich in iron and folate – important for energy and wellness
• Low-fat and cholesterol-free – ideal for heart health
• Vegan and gluten-free – suitable for most diets. – According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, 1 cup of cooked lentils offers about 18g of protein and 15g of fiber.

Trusted Sources & Recipe Variations

• Making Thyme for Health – their “healing” version of Moroccan lentil soup
• The New Baguette – a variation with chickpeas
• Epicurious – for a traditional Moroccan harira
• Serious Eats – expert soup cooking techniques

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Conclusion

This Moroccan-Spiced Lentil Soup is everything you want in a one-pot meal—comforting, flavorful, healthy, and easy to make. Whether you’re cooking for the week, feeding a family, or warming up on a cold day, this recipe has you covered.