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 cloves garlic, minced; 2 carrots, chopped; 1 red bell pepper, chopped; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon ground cumin; 1 tablespoon ground coriander; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; Salt and pepper, to taste; Optional: Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Fresh Healthy Meals Inspiration

I absolutely love preparing this Healthy Crockpot Moroccan Lentil Chickpeas dish on busy days when I want something nutritious yet simple. The slow cooking process allows all the spices to meld beautifully, creating a rich and comforting meal. This recipe is packed with protein and fiber from the lentils and chickpeas, making it not just healthy, but also incredibly satisfying. Best of all, I can set it and forget it until dinner time, ensuring we enjoy a wholesome meal without the hassle.

Created by

Pippa Lawson

Last updated on 2026-01-14T07:57:35.672Z

In exploring the flavors of Moroccan cuisine, I stumbled upon the delightful combination of lentils and chickpeas in a slow cooker. The spices enhance the earthy flavors while the gentle simmering creates a homely aroma that fills the kitchen. I usually serve this with couscous or on its own, letting the dish shine as a wholesome meal.

What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily adjust the spices to suit your own taste preferences, whether you prefer more warmth from the cumin or a hint of sweetness from the cinnamon. Adding a splash of lemon juice before serving brings everything together beautifully!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        An aromatic blend of spices that transports you to Morocco
Nutrient-dense ingredients for a healthy, filling meal
Effortless prep ensures you can enjoy dinner with minimal work

      

Tips for Perfect Lentils and Chickpeas

Choosing the right type of lentils is crucial for achieving the desired texture in this dish. Green and brown lentils hold their shape well during cooking and provide a hearty bite. Avoid red or yellow lentils, as they tend to break down too much and create a mushy consistency. Rinsing the lentils before cooking is also essential to remove any debris or excess starch, ensuring they cook evenly and taste clean.

When using canned chickpeas, it's helpful to drain and rinse them thoroughly to remove some of the excess sodium and any preservatives that might affect the flavor. If you prefer to use dried chickpeas, soak them overnight to soften, and then boil them for about 60-90 minutes until tender before adding them to the crockpot.

Enhancing Flavor Profiles

The combination of spices in this recipe creates a warm, aromatic profile reminiscent of Moroccan cuisine. If you're looking for a little more heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped fresh chili peppers. Additionally, a splash of lemon juice at the end can brighten the flavor and deepen the dish's overall complexity. I often find that adjusting the spices to my taste in the last 30 minutes of cooking can elevate the meal significantly.

Don't shy away from experimenting with your choice of vegetables. Adding some diced sweet potatoes or zucchini can enhance the dish's nutrition and add a variant texture. For a hint of sweetness, dried apricots or raisins stir in during the last 30 minutes of cooking can provide a delightful contrast to the spices.

Ingredients

For the Lentil Chickpeas

1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed
1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 large onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, chopped
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
4 cups vegetable broth
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1 tablespoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional: Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

Prep the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the rinsed lentils, drained chickpeas, diced onion, minced garlic, chopped carrots, and bell pepper.

Add Spices and Liquids

Stir in the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, salt, and pepper until well mixed.

Cook in Crockpot

Transfer everything to your crockpot. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until lentils are tender.

Serve and Enjoy

Taste and adjust seasoning, if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice before serving or a sprinkle of feta cheese on top. If you want it spicier, add a pinch of cayenne pepper during cooking.

Storage and Reheating

This Healthy Crockpot Moroccan Lentil Chickpeas dish stores well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Be sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. For longer storage, it can be frozen for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of vegetable broth to maintain moisture, as the lentils and chickpeas may absorb liquid during storage.

For a quick reheat, microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating. If you're reheating on the stovetop, use medium heat and stir frequently to prevent sticking. Adjust seasoning with salt or spices as needed once it's warmed through.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides. Serve it over fluffy couscous or quinoa for a satisfying meal that’s rich in protein and fiber. Alternatively, it can be enjoyed on its own in a bowl, garnished with fresh cilantro, or a dollop of yogurt for added creaminess. The contrast between the warm spices and cool yogurt creates a delightful balance that enhances each bite.

Consider rounding out your meal with a fresh salad or roasted vegetable medley for an added crunch and variety of flavors. A simple mix of arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the earthy flavors of the lentils and chickpeas beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen vegetables in this recipe?

Yes, frozen vegetables can be used as a convenient substitute. Just add them during the last hour of cooking.

→ Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! This recipe is already vegetarian, but you can customize it further with additional veggies or plant-based protein.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze the leftover lentil chickpeas for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.