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Authentic Moroccan Lentil Soup Recipe

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3.9 from 14 reviews

This Authentic Moroccan Lentil Soup is a hearty, flavorful dish that combines tender green lentils with fragrant ras el hanout spices and fresh vegetables. This nutritious and comforting soup is perfect for a wholesome meal, served traditionally with Moroccan khobz bread and garnished with lemon and cilantro for a fresh finish.

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Sauce Base

  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 yellow onion, diced
  • 2 large carrots, diced
  • 3 stalks celery, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp ras el hanout
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste

Soups and Greens

  • 8 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 cup green lentils
  • 2 cups fresh spinach (or 1 cup frozen)

Garnishes and Sides

  • Lemon, for squeezing
  • Cilantro, for garnish
  • Moroccan bread (khobz), to serve

Instructions

  1. Sauté Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery and stir occasionally to cook evenly. Continue sautéing for about 4-5 minutes until the onions become translucent and the vegetables soften.
  2. Add Spices and Tomato Paste: Incorporate the minced garlic and ras el hanout spice mix into the vegetables, stirring well to coat everything with the flavorful spices. Add the tomato paste and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the tomato paste to deepen in flavor.
  3. Simmer with Broth and Lentils: Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Once boiling, add the green lentils. Return to a boil and then reduce the heat to low to maintain a gentle simmer. Cook for 15 minutes or until the lentils are tender and fully cooked through.
  4. Add Spinach and Season: Stir in the fresh or frozen spinach until wilted and incorporated. Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and finish with a fresh squeeze of lemon juice and a sprig of cilantro on top. Serve alongside warm Moroccan khobz bread for an authentic experience.

Notes

  • If using frozen spinach, add it a few minutes earlier to ensure it cooks through properly.
  • Ras el hanout spice blend can vary; adjust the amount to your preferred spice level.
  • This soup can be made ahead and reheated; flavors develop even more after resting.
  • For added protein, a dollop of Greek yogurt on top complements the spices well.
  • Moroccan khobz can be substituted with pita bread or crusty artisan bread if unavailable.
  • Author: Amelia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Soup
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Moroccan
  • Diet: Vegan