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 lentils; 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 carrot, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 can diced tomatoes; 4 cups vegetable broth; 2 tsp cumin; 1 tsp cinnamon; 1 tsp turmeric; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Light Healthy Meals Ideas

I love using my crockpot to create hearty and wholesome meals, and this Healthy Crockpot Moroccan Lentil Chickpeas recipe is a perfect example. The combination of lentils and chickpeas creates a protein-packed dish that is full of flavor. The spices like cumin and cinnamon come together beautifully as they meld in the slow cooker, providing an aromatic experience without much effort. Plus, with minimal prep time, this dish makes for a cozy, nutritious dinner that the whole family will enjoy. I can't wait for you to try it!

Created by

Sophie Adams

Last updated on 2026-01-14T03:01:35.039Z

When I first tried making a Moroccan-inspired dish, I was surprised at how rich and complex the flavors could be with just a few key spices. This lentil and chickpea combination not only tastes good but is also incredibly fulfilling and nutritious. After several attempts, I found that using the crockpot not only makes the process effortless, but it also enhances the flavors by allowing everything to simmer together for hours.

One of my favorite discoveries while perfecting this recipe was the balance of spices. The warmth of cumin paired with the sweetness of cinnamon elevates the dish dramatically. It's essential to let it cook low and slow to allow the ingredients to fully develop their flavors. Trust me, when you come home to that aroma wafting through the house, it’s all worth it!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Nutritious and protein-rich for a satisfying meal
Aromatic spices that transport you to Morocco
Easy to make in your crockpot with minimal cleanup

      

Ingredient Insights

The combination of lentils and chickpeas in this recipe provides an excellent source of plant-based protein and fiber. Lentils cook down to become tender and creamy, while chickpeas maintain a bit of bite, adding a nice contrast in texture. The balance of these legumes not only enriches the dish but also makes it more satisfying and filling. If you're looking to increase the protein content even further, consider adding some quinoa or hemp seeds into the mix during the last hour of cooking for an added nutritional boost.

The spices in this recipe are crucial to achieving the authentic Moroccan flavor profile. Cumin lends a warm, earthy note, while cinnamon adds a sweet depth that mellows with the slow cooking process. Turmeric not only contributes to the vibrant color of the dish but is also known for its anti-inflammatory properties. It's important to use fresh spices, as they provide the best flavor impact. If you don’t have all the spices on hand, consider using a Moroccan spice blend as a convenient substitute.

Cooking Techniques

When layering your ingredients in the crockpot, it's best to follow a specific order for optimal cooking. Start with the lentils at the bottom since they require the longest to cook, followed by the vegetables, and then the liquids. This method ensures that everything cooks evenly, and you’ll avoid any undercooked lentils at the end. Additionally, it's a good idea to give the mixture a gentle stir before setting your crockpot to help evenly distribute the spices throughout the dish.

To ensure a rich flavor, allow the dish to cook low and slow—setting your crockpot on low for 6 to 8 hours is ideal. This extended cooking time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making every bite more flavorful. If you're short on time, the high setting for 3 to 4 hours works almost as well, but keep an eye on the lentils to prevent them from becoming mushy. Stirring occasionally can help, too, releasing more aromas as they develop.

Ingredients

For the Moroccan Lentil Chickpeas

1 cup dried lentils
1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 carrot, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 can diced tomatoes
4 cups vegetable broth
2 tsp cumin
1 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp turmeric
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Rinse the lentils and drain the chickpeas. Chop the onion, garlic, carrot, and bell pepper into small pieces.

Combine in the Crockpot

In the crockpot, add the lentils, chickpeas, diced vegetables, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and spices.

Cook

Set your crockpot to low for 6 to 8 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours. Stir occasionally if possible.

Serve

Once the cooking time is done, taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some red pepper flakes. This dish freezes well, so make a big batch and save some for a rainy day!

Serving Suggestions

This Healthy Crockpot Moroccan Lentil Chickpeas dish can be served on its own or as a side to accompany a variety of proteins, such as grilled chicken or lamb. For a complete meal, serve it over fluffy couscous or quinoa, allowing the grains to absorb the rich flavors of the stew. You might also add a dollop of yogurt or a drizzle of tahini on top to enhance the creaminess and contrast with the spices.

For an extra touch, consider garnishing with chopped fresh cilantro or parsley just before serving. This not only adds a burst of color but also brightens the dish with a fresh note. A squeeze of lemon juice can further elevate the flavors, making the meal more vibrant and refreshing.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This recipe is fantastic for meal prep! You can make a larger batch and store the leftovers in an airtight container, where it will keep well in the refrigerator for up to a week. When you're ready to enjoy leftovers, simply reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth if it becomes too thick. The flavors will actually deepen and improve after a day or two in the fridge, making it even more delicious the next time you serve it.

If you’d like to freeze portions for later use, cool the dish completely before transferring it to freezer-safe bags or containers. It can be stored for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently. This freezing technique makes meal planning effortless, and you'll always have a nourishing dinner option ready to go!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned lentils instead of dried?

Yes, you can use canned lentils, but reduce the cooking time since they are already cooked.

→ Is this recipe vegan-friendly?

Absolutely! All the ingredients are plant-based.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely! Feel free to add zucchini, spinach, or any other veggies you like.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.