MOROCCAN LENTIL STEW
Moroccan Lentil Stew is a deeply aromatic, hearty vegan dish inspired by the vibrant flavours of North African cuisine. This stew blends protein-rich green lentils, sweet carrots and juicy tomatoes with warming spices like cumin and cinnamon, all simmered gently in a vegetable broth. The result is a bold and comforting one-pot meal packed with plant-based nourishment and traditional spice. High in fibre and naturally low in fat, this stew supports digestive health, satiety and overall health. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients and minimal preparation, it’s ideal for weeknight dinners or batch-cooked lunches. Serve it on its own or alongside couscous or flatbread to soak up the spiced broth. The combination of earthy lentils and aromatic spices delivers a depth of flavour that’s both satisfying and authentic.
RECIPE CATEGORY
Dinner
SERVING SIZE
1
CUISINE
Moroccan
PREPARATION/TECHNIQUES
Stew
OCCASION/HOLIDAY
Winter
SPECIAL CONSIDERATION/DIETARY CONCERNS
Vegan, High Fibre, Low Fat, Wheat / Gluten-Free, Quick & Easy, Low Sodium, Healthy, Organic
DISH TYPE
Soup / Stew
INGREDIENTS
There are the following ingredients for Moroccan Lentil Stew:
- ½ cup cooked green lentils
- ½ cup chopped tomatoes (fresh or canned)
- ½ carrot, diced
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ¼ tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp ground cumin
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp olive oil (optional)
FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
- Calories: 417.1 kcal
- Fat: 6 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.8 g
- Carbohydrate: 69.6 g
- Sugar: 5.5 g
- Sodium: 1018.5 mg
- Fiber: 12.9 g
- Protein: 25.1 g
- Calcium: 83.2 mg
- Iron: 7.2 mg
- Potassium: 977.1 mg
PREPARATION
These steps are followed for the preparation of Moroccan Lentil Stew:
- Sauté Garlic And Carrot: In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil (if using). Add garlic and diced carrot, sautéing for 3 to 4 minutes.
- Add Spices And Tomatoes: Stir in cinnamon, cumin, and chopped tomatoes. Cook for 2 minutes to build aroma.
- Incorporate Lentils And Broth: Add the cooked lentils and vegetable broth. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Simmer Gently: Reduce heat and simmer for 10 to 12 minutes until the carrots are tender and flavours are melded.
- Season To Taste: Add salt and pepper to your liking. If a thinner consistency is preferred, add a splash of water or broth.
- Serve Warm: Ladle into a bowl and serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh coriander or parsley.
PREP TIME
10 minutes
COOKING TIME
12 minutes
TIPS
Here are some helpful tips for Moroccan Lentil Stew:
- Use Pre-Cooked Lentils: Save time by using canned or pre-cooked lentils rinse thoroughly to reduce sodium.
- Balance Flavours: The cinnamon provides subtle sweetness, while cumin adds warmth and taste adjusts if needed.
- Veggie Boost: Dice vegetables uniformly for even cooking and a visually appealing presentation.
- Broth Quality: Use a rich, low-sodium vegetable broth for enhanced depth without overpowering saltiness.
VARIATIONS
- Add Leafy Greens: Stir in chopped spinach or kale in the final few minutes for added nutrients and colour.
- Spice Elevation: Add a pinch of ground ginger or turmeric for extra Moroccan flair.
- Protein Upgrade: Toss in some chickpeas for a dual-legume stew and add heartiness.
- Grain Companion: Serve over wholegrain couscous or bulgur for a filling Moroccan-style meal.
- Creamy Touch: Mix in a spoonful of unsweetened almond yoghurt or tahini for creaminess.
PREPPING AND STORAGE
- Refrigeration: Let stew cool before storing in an airtight container. Keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in single-portion containers for up to 2 months. Defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm gently on the hob or microwave, adding a splash of broth to rehydrate the stew if needed.