Moroccan lentil soup in a Crock Pot slow cooker

Moroccan Lentil Soup in a Crock Pot Slow Cooker

I invite you to embark on a journey through flavors, where lentils and vegetables intertwine harmoniously to create a delicious Moroccan soup. This recipe will not only delight your taste buds but will also fill your home with an irresistible aroma of spices. With the help of a slow cooker, your dish will be ready with minimal effort, giving you more time to enjoy moments with loved ones.

Total time: 4 hours (or 8-10 hours, depending on the setting)
Servings: 6-8

Essential ingredients:
- 4 large onions, finely chopped
- 6 carrots, peeled and diced
- 3 potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 cloves of garlic, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon of ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper
- 1400 ml chicken or vegetable broth
- 500 ml water
- 400 g green lentils, rinsed
- 400 g diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 lemon, for serving

Step by step, towards perfection:

1. Preparing the ingredients:
Start by peeling and chopping all the vegetables. Uniformly cutting them will not only add a pleasing presentation to your soup but will also ensure even cooking.

2. Mixing the ingredients:
In the 4.5-liter slow cooker, add the finely chopped onion, carrots, potatoes, garlic, olive oil, cumin, coriander, and pepper. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are coated with oil and spices.

3. Adding the lentils and liquids:
After mixing the vegetables well, add the rinsed lentils, diced tomatoes, chicken or vegetable broth, and water. Stir again to combine all ingredients.

4. Setting the slow cooker:
Cover the pot with the lid and set the function to High for 4 hours. If you prefer to cook on Low, you need to let the food simmer for 8-10 hours. This slow cooking method will allow the flavors to develop and blend perfectly.

5. Serving:
Once the cooking time is up, check if the lentils are tender and the vegetables are cooked. Serve the soup hot, drizzled with a few drops of lemon juice for a fresh and invigorating taste.

Tips and useful advice:
- Choosing lentils: Green lentils are ideal for this soup as they hold their shape and texture. You can also experiment with other types of lentils, like red lentils, but they will break down faster.
- Adding other vegetables: If you want to diversify the recipe, you can add celery, zucchini, or even beets for an extra splash of color and nutrients.
- Additional spices: If you enjoy a spicier taste, you can add a little chili pepper or smoked paprika.
- Alternative serving: I suggest serving the soup with a slice of toasted bread or seasoned croutons for added texture.

Nutritional benefits:
This Moroccan lentil soup is not only delicious but also very nutritious. Lentils are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and minerals, while the vegetables add essential vitamins. Additionally, olive oil provides healthy fats, making it ideal for a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use canned lentils?
It is not recommended, as canned lentils are already cooked and will not have the same texture. It is better to use dried lentils.

- How can I store leftover soup?
The soup can be stored in the refrigerator in airtight containers for 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for later use, just make sure to let it cool completely before placing it in the freezer.

- What can I pair this soup with?
This soup pairs perfectly with a fresh vegetable salad or a serving of rice to turn the meal into a complete feast.

I conclude this recipe with a thought: cooking is an art, but also a form of love. So, enjoy every step of the process and share the soup with your loved ones! Perhaps one day, this soup will become part of your culinary traditions, just as it has in many homes around the world. Enjoy your meal!