Detox Moroccan Lentil Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dish that’s both nutritious and flavorful, then you’re in for a treat with this Detox Moroccan Lentil Soup! This recipe has been a staple in my kitchen for years, and I love how it warms me from the inside out. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty yet healthy or for family gatherings where everyone can enjoy a bowl of goodness together. Plus, it’s packed with protein, making it an ideal meal to nourish both your body and soul.

This soup is not just about great taste; it also supports digestion and liver health. With its vibrant spices and wholesome ingredients, each spoonful brings a little piece of Morocco right to your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: In just about 50 minutes, you can whip up this delicious soup from start to finish.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the rich flavors and colorful ingredients, making it a hit at any dinner table.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: This soup stores beautifully in the fridge or freezer, so you can enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
• Packed with Nutrition: Full of lentils and veggies, it’s a nutrient-dense meal that helps keep you energized and satisfied.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients for this Detox Moroccan Lentil Soup. Each one plays a vital role in creating layers of flavor while keeping it healthy.

For the Soup Base

• 1 tablespoon avocado oil
• 1 cup chopped onion
• 1 cup chopped celery
• 1 cup chopped carrot
• 1 cup chopped white fingerling potato
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 teaspoon sea salt (+ more to taste)
• 1 teaspoon black pepper (+ more to taste)

For the Spices

• 2 teaspoons turmeric
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons ground ginger
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

For the Lentils and Liquid

• 1 cup green (or brown lentils)
• 1 cup red lentils
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 2 cups water
• 1/4 cup tomato paste

For Creaminess and Flavor

• 1 cup almond milk (or coconut milk depending on your preference)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

For the Greens

• 2 – 3 cups spinach

Variations

One of the best things about this Detox Moroccan Lentil Soup is its flexibility! Here are some fun variations you can try out to make it your own:

• Add More Veggies: Toss in extra vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for added nutrients and color.
• Change Up the Greens: Use kale or Swiss chard instead of spinach for a different flavor profile.
• Spice It Up: Add some cayenne pepper or chili flakes if you like a little heat in your soup.
• Noodle Addition: Stir in some cooked quinoa or whole grain pasta for added texture and heartiness.

How to Make Detox Moroccan Lentil Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat the avocado oil in a large stockpot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, celery, carrot, fingerling potato, and minced garlic. Sauté everything together for about 5 minutes until they soften slightly. This step is crucial because sautéing releases their natural sweetness and builds a flavorful base.

Step 2: Add Spices and Lentils

Sprinkle in the sea salt, black pepper, turmeric, cumin, ginger, smoked paprika, and cinnamon. Stir well for about 2 minutes to let those spices bloom before adding the lentils. The spices enhance not only flavor but also add health benefits.

Step 3: Pour in Liquids

Now it’s time to add your broth, water, and tomato paste. Stir until everything is well combined and the tomato paste dissolves completely. Bring this mixture to a boil; then cover it up and reduce to simmer for 30 minutes. Simmering allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 4: Finish with Creaminess and Greens

Once cooked, remove from heat. Stir in almond milk (or coconut milk), lemon juice, and spinach until the greens wilt down nicely. This final touch adds creaminess while keeping it light. Serve immediately with your favorite toppings!

Enjoy your delicious bowl of Detox Moroccan Lentil Soup! It’s warming comfort food that’s sure to please everyone at your table.

Pro Tips for Making Detox Moroccan Lentil Soup

Making this soup is not only straightforward but also allows for some creativity. Here are a few tips to ensure your Detox Moroccan Lentil Soup turns out perfectly every time!

• Choose the Right Lentils: Using a mix of green (or brown) and red lentils adds depth to the texture and flavor of the soup. Green lentils hold their shape well, while red lentils break down and create a creamy consistency.

• Don’t Skip the Spices: Spices like turmeric, cumin, and smoked paprika are essential for achieving that authentic Moroccan flavor. They not only enhance taste but also provide numerous health benefits.

• Adjust Consistency as Needed: Depending on your preference, you can add more water or vegetable broth if you like a thinner soup or leave it thicker if you prefer a heartier stew.

• Let It Sit: If you have time, let the soup sit for about 30 minutes after cooking. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully together, making each spoonful even more delicious.

• Experiment with Greens: While spinach is a great addition, feel free to mix in other greens like kale or Swiss chard for added nutrients and variety.

How to Serve Detox Moroccan Lentil Soup

Presentation can elevate your meal from good to fantastic! Here are some simple ideas to serve your Detox Moroccan Lentil Soup in style.

Garnishes

• Coconut Yogurt: A dollop of coconut yogurt adds creaminess and balances the spices with its slight sweetness.
• Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley not only adds a pop of color but also brings freshness that brightens each bite.
• Pepper Flakes: For those who love a bit of heat, sprinkle some pepper flakes on top to kick up the flavor.

Side Dishes

• Crusty Whole Grain Bread: Perfect for dipping, a slice of whole grain bread complements the soup’s flavors while adding a satisfying crunch.
• Simple Green Salad: A refreshing salad with mixed greens, cucumber, and lemon vinaigrette offers a light contrast to the rich soup.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted carrots, sweet potatoes, and Brussels sprouts bring an earthy sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the spices in the soup.
• Quinoa Salad: A fluffy quinoa salad with herbs and lemon creates a hearty side that’s packed with protein and balances out the meal beautifully.

Enjoy serving up this delightful Detox Moroccan Lentil Soup along with these garnishes and side dishes—your family will love it!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Detox Moroccan Lentil Soup is perfect for meal prep! It stores well, allowing you to enjoy its delightful flavors throughout the week. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• If you’re planning to enjoy it later, consider portioning it out for easy access during busy days.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool down before pouring it into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags.
• Leave some space at the top of containers as the soup will expand when frozen.
• It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Label with the date for your reference.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• You can also microwave individual portions; just cover and heat until hot, stirring halfway through for even heating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe:

Can I make Detox Moroccan Lentil Soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This soup tastes even better after a day in the fridge as the flavors meld together beautifully. Just follow the storage tips above!

What makes this Detox Moroccan Lentil Soup so healthy?

This soup is packed with nutrient-dense ingredients like lentils, vegetables, and spices that support digestion and liver health while being low in calories.

Can I use different types of lentils in this recipe?

Yes! While green and red lentils provide a great texture and flavor, you can experiment with other varieties like brown lentils. Just adjust cooking times as needed.

Is Detox Moroccan Lentil Soup suitable for freezing?

Definitely! This soup freezes well, making it a fantastic choice for meal prep. Just remember to cool it completely before freezing!

How spicy is this Detox Moroccan Lentil Soup?

The spice level depends on your personal preference. For a milder version, reduce or omit any spicy garnishes like jalapeños or pepper flakes.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Detox Moroccan Lentil Soup as much as I do! It’s not only nourishing but also bursting with vibrant flavors that warm your soul. Whether you’re enjoying it solo or sharing with friends, it’s sure to be a hit. Don’t hesitate to try out different toppings or sides to make it your own. Happy cooking!