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A Hearty Moroccan Lentil Soup Recipe

Warm, nourishing, and bursting with flavour, Moroccan Lentil Soup is a delightful dish that encapsulates the essence of North African cuisine. Rich in spices and packed with protein and nutrients, this soup is not only comforting but also très easy to make. Perfect for chilly evenings or for a wholesome lunch, this recipe will transport your taste buds straight to the vibrant streets of Morocco.

Ingredients

To serve approximately 4-6 people, you will need the following:

• 200g red lentils, rinsed
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 large carrot, diced
• 1 celery stalk, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 medium potato, diced
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp turmeric
• 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1.5 litres vegetable stock
• 400g tin of chopped tomatoes
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Fresh coriander or parsley, for garnish
• Juice of half a lemon

Method

Step 1: Prepare the Base

Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over a medium flame. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté for approximately 5-7 minutes until they become translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Add the Vegetables and Spices

Once the onions and garlic are ready, add the diced carrot, celery, and red bell pepper. Sauté for another 5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.

Next, introduce the ground cumin, coriander, cinnamon, paprika, turmeric, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to coat the vegetables in the spices, allowing their flavours to meld together for a couple more minutes.

Step 3: Introduce Lentils and Stock

Add the rinsed red lentils and diced potato to the saucepan, followed by the tin of chopped tomatoes and vegetable stock. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil.

Step 4: Simmer

Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Allow the soup to simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils and vegetables are tender. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent the lentils from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

Step 5: Blend (Optional)

For a creamier texture, you can use an immersion blender to purée part of the soup. Alternatively, you could blend a portion in a regular blender and return it to the pot. This step is optional, depending on your preferred soup consistency.

Step 6: Final Touches

Once the soup is cooked to your liking, adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary. Stir in the juice of half a lemon for a zesty kick that brightens the flavours.

Step 7: Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls, garnishing with fresh coriander or parsley. Accompany with warm crusty bread or a side of fluffy couscous for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Moroccan Lentil Soup is more than just a dish; it’s an experience. The play of warm spices, the heartiness of lentils, and the vibrancy of fresh herbs create a symphony of flavours that is both satisfying and nutritious. Whether served at a dinner party or enjoyed quietly at home, this soup is sure to delight all who savour it. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let the aromas of Morocco fill your kitchen!