Image Source from mollyshomeguide

Easy Moroccan Lentil Soup Recipe

Moroccan cuisine is celebrated for its depth of flavour and the tantalizing blend of spices that create a warm and comforting atmosphere, especially during the cooler months. One dish that embodies the essence of North African cooking is Moroccan Lentil Soup. Rich, nutritious, and bursting with aromatic spices, this soup is both easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or as a meal prep option, this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients

For this Easy Moroccan Lentil Soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 can (400g) chopped tomatoes
• 200g dried green or brown lentils, rinsed
• 1.2 litres vegetable or chicken stock
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh coriander or parsley, for garnish
• Juice of half a lemon

Instructions

1. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, until it becomes translucent. Next, toss in the diced carrots and celery, cooking for an additional 5 minutes.

2. Add the Spices: Stir in the minced garlic, ground cumin, ground coriander, smoked paprika, ground cinnamon, and cayenne pepper. Cook for about 1-2 minutes until the spices become fragrant, ensuring they don’t burn.

3. Incorporate the Lentils and Tomatoes: Add the chopped tomatoes and rinsed lentils to the pot. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. The tomatoes will add a nice acidity, which balances the richness of the lentils wonderfully.

4. Pour in the Stock: Pour in the vegetable or chicken stock, ensuring that the lentils are fully submerged. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for around 30-35 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. Stir occasionally and check for seasoning, adding salt and pepper to taste.

5. Finish the Soup: Once the lentils are cooked and the soup has thickened to your desired consistency, remove it from heat. Stir in the juice of half a lemon for a fresh, zesty kick.

6. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh coriander or parsley. Serve hot, ideally with crusty bread or over a bed of fluffy couscous for a heartier meal.

Tips and Variations

• Vegetable Additions: Feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to make the soup even more nutritious.
• Protein Boost: For those looking to add extra protein, consider tossing in some chickpeas or diced chicken.
• Storage: This soup can be stored in the fridge for up to five days and freezes well, making it a perfect make-ahead meal. Just be sure to cool it completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Spice Variations: Adjust the spices based on your palate. You can make it milder or spicier by tweaking the amount of cayenne or adding a pinch of chilli flakes.

Conclusion

This Easy Moroccan Lentil Soup is a delightful harmony of flavours and textures, making it a nourishing option for any meal. It is not only simple to prepare but also versatile enough to cater to various dietary preferences. With its warming spices and hearty ingredients, this soup is sure to become a comforting favourite in your household. Enjoy the rich, aromatic taste of Morocco in the comfort of your own home with this easy-to-follow recipe!

No items listed in the response.