Healthy Crockpot Moroccan Lentil Chickpeas

Name: Healthy Crockpot Moroccan Lentil Chickpeas
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed; 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 large onion, diced; 2 carrots, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 2 tsp ground cumin; 2 tsp ground coriander; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1/2 tsp cinnamon; 1/2 tsp turmeric; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 cups vegetable broth; 2 cups spinach, chopped; Juice of 1 lemon; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Natural Kitchen

I love coming home to a warm, hearty meal after a long day, and this Healthy Crockpot Moroccan Lentil Chickpeas dish never disappoints. It’s packed with vibrant spices and wholesome ingredients, making it both nourishing and satisfying. The best part is how easy it is to prepare; I just toss everything in the crockpot and let it do the work while I tackle other tasks. The aroma that fills my kitchen as it cooks is incredible, and it always brings the family together for a comforting dinner.

Created by

Leonie Fairchild

Last updated on 2026-01-14T02:57:36.521Z

When I first tried making this dish, I was amazed by how the combination of lentils and chickpeas creates a satisfying texture. The Moroccan spices really elevate the flavors, turning a simple meal into something extraordinary. I learned that letting it cook for several hours allows the spices to meld beautifully, giving each bite a taste of warmth and comfort.

One tip I always follow is to soak my lentils for at least an hour before cooking; it helps them cook evenly and absorb more flavor. Each time I prepare this dish, it not only nourishes my family but also fills our home with delightful scents that make everyone eager for dinner. I’ll never tire of this amazing recipe!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Aromatic spices create a warm and inviting atmosphere
Packed with protein from lentils and chickpeas for a satisfying meal
Easy to make in a crockpot, perfect for busy days

Understanding Your Ingredients

The core of this Healthy Crockpot Moroccan Lentil Chickpeas dish is the combination of lentils and chickpeas. Lentils are not only high in protein but also provide a unique texture that contrasts well with the creamy chickpeas. Using dried green or brown lentils is crucial as their firm structure holds up beautifully during the long cooking process. Keep in mind that red lentils may become mushy and won't provide the same satisfying bite.

Additionally, the choice of spices plays a significant role in defining the flavor profile of this dish. Cumin and coriander bring out earthy and warm notes, while smoked paprika adds a subtle smokiness that elevates the overall taste. Don’t skip the cinnamon and turmeric, as they contribute not only to the aroma but also to a beautiful golden color. Together, these spices create a comforting warmth that is perfect for chilly evenings.

Perfecting Your Cooking Technique

When using a crockpot for this recipe, the low and slow cooking method really allows the flavors to meld beautifully. If you're short on time, cooking on high for 3 hours is still effective, but I recommend sticking to the low setting for the best flavor development. You'll know it's done when the lentils are tender but not mushy, usually evidenced by a slight firmness when you taste them, about 6 hours later on low.

If you prefer a thicker stew, reduce the vegetable broth by one cup. After cooking, if you find the stew to be too watery, you can remove the lid and cook on high for an additional 15-30 minutes to evaporate excess liquid. Always stir in the spinach at the end to keep its vibrant color and nutrients intact; it wilts quickly and will be ready within just a few minutes.

Serving and Storing Tips

Serving this Moroccan Lentil Chickpeas dish is straightforward. I love to pair it with warm, crusty bread for dipping or over a bed of fluffy couscous to soak up the flavors. For an extra touch, consider adding a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of pomegranate seeds for brightness. If you'd like a contrasting crunch, some toasted almonds or sunflower seeds can add delightful texture.

When it comes to storing leftovers, this dish stores exceptionally well in the fridge for up to 5 days, and the flavors often intensify over time. You can also freeze portions for up to 3 months. When reheating, you might need to add a splash of vegetable broth to achieve your desired consistency. This makes it not only a delicious meal for today but also a fantastic option for meal prep throughout the week.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients

1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed
1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 large onion, diced
2 carrots, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
2 tsp ground cumin
2 tsp ground coriander
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp turmeric
Salt and pepper to taste
4 cups vegetable broth
2 cups spinach, chopped
Juice of 1 lemon
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Now that you have all your ingredients, let's move on to cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare the dish:

Prepare the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the lentils, chickpeas, onion, carrots, and garlic. Mix well to distribute the ingredients evenly.

Add Spices and Liquid

In the crockpot, add the diced tomatoes, cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, cinnamon, turmeric, salt, pepper, and vegetable broth. Stir to combine everything thoroughly.

Combine and Cook

Add the lentil and chickpea mixture to the crockpot and stir well. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours, until the lentils are tender.

Finish and Serve

Once cooked, stir in chopped spinach and lemon juice. Adjust the seasoning if needed, then serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Enjoy your meal!

Pro Tips

Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste preferences, and don't hesitate to add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're unable to find chickpeas or want a different protein, black beans can serve as a great substitute in this recipe. They’ll deliver a similar creaminess while providing a distinct flavor. Additionally, if you’re looking to reduce sodium intake, consider using low-sodium vegetable broth or preparing your own broth to control the saltiness.

For a gluten-free option, make sure your vegetable broth is certified gluten-free. If you're looking to spice things up, try adding a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes to the spice mixture. This will not only enhance the dish’s overall flavor but also add an enjoyable heat.

Potential Troubleshooting

If you notice that your lentils are not cooking as expected, it could be a few things. First, ensure that you’re using fresh dried lentils - older lentils may take longer to cook. If they remain firm after the expected cooking time, simply allow them to continue cooking and check periodically for doneness.

In the event that your dish turns out too spicy due to added heat from spices or substitutions, simply balance it out with a touch of honey or maple syrup. This can help tone down the heat while maintaining the dish's complexity. Always taste as you go, especially after adding additional spices.

Making It Your Own

One of the great aspects of this dish is its versatility. You can easily incorporate seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for added nutrition and color. Simply chop them into bite-sized pieces and add them with the lentils and chickpeas for the cooking phase, allowing them to soften and meld with the other flavors.

Consider experimenting with herbs as well; fresh thyme or rosemary can add a beautiful aromatic layer to the finished dish. For a more Mediterranean twist, a handful of olives or artichokes mixed in just before serving can add complexity and a deliciously unexpected flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned lentils instead of dried?

Yes, if using canned lentils, reduce the cooking time and add them in the last 30 minutes of cooking.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Absolutely! It freezes well; just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.

→ What can I serve it with?

This dish pairs beautifully with rice, quinoa, or even crusty bread for a complete meal.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, it is entirely plant-based, making it perfect for vegans and vegetarians.