When the weather starts to turn chilly, nothing warms the soul quite like a hearty bowl of soup. This Moroccan Spiced Red Lentil Soup recipe will not only keep you cozy but also tantalize your taste buds with its rich, aromatic flavors. Bursting with North African spices and nutritious red lentils, this dish is perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or for entertaining guests with an exotic twist. Let’s get started!
**Moroccan Spiced Red Lentil Soup**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup red lentils, rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 carrots, chopped
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
– Lemon wedges, for serving
**Instructions:**
1. In a large pot, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and carrots, and sauté until the onions are translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in the minced garlic, cumin, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper. Cook for another minute until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
3. Add the red lentils to the pot and give everything a good stir to coat the lentils with the spices and vegetables.
4. Pour in the vegetable broth and diced tomatoes. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and let it cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and the flavors have melded together.
5. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the spices if needed, adding more cayenne for heat or cinnamon for warmth.
6. Serve the Moroccan Spiced Red Lentil Soup hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves for a pop of freshness. Squeeze some lemon juice over the top just before serving for a zesty finish.
This easy-to-make soup offers a delightful blend of exotic spices that will transport you to the vibrant markets of Morocco with every spoonful. The red lentils provide a protein-packed base for this vegetarian dish, making it not only delicious but also nutritious. Feel free to customize the level of spice to your liking, whether you prefer a subtle warmth or a fiery kick.
Prepare a batch of this Moroccan Spiced Red Lentil Soup as a heartwarming meal for your loved ones or simply to treat yourself to a taste of the Mediterranean at home. Its inviting aroma and comforting flavors are sure to make it a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy this delicious soup as a cozy dinner option or as a starter for a special gathering – either way, it’s bound to be a hit!
