Name: Moroccan Instant Pot Lentils Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Moroccan
Ingredients: 1 cup whole brown lentils (or green lentils; uncooked); 19 oz can of diced tomatoes (juices included); 2 carrots (peeled and chopped); 1 onion (diced); 2 ribs celery (chopped); 4 cups sweet potato cubes (1 inch; 1 large or 2 small sweet potatoes); 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves; 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (increase for spicy, omit for non-spicy); 1 tablespoon maple syrup (brown sugar or honey can be used as substitutes); 2 cups vegetable stock; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Parsley (optional, for garnish)

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 5 reviews

If you’re craving a meal that bursts with comforting flavors, vibrant colors, and warming spices, you’re about to fall in love with this Moroccan Instant Pot Lentils Recipe. It’s a beautiful blend of wholesome brown lentils, sweet potatoes, aromatic spices, and fresh vegetables that come together effortlessly in the Instant Pot to create a dish that’s rich, hearty, and simply irresistible. Whether you’re a seasoned fan of Moroccan cuisine or trying lentils in a bold new way, this recipe promises a satisfying bowl of goodness that warms your soul and delights your taste buds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A round metal bowl on a white marbled surface holds separate ingredients arranged in sections. Inside the bowl, there are diced white onions, chopped green bell peppers, sliced orange carrots, small red tomato pieces, raw brown lentils, and a collection of different powdered spices in the middle, including yellow, orange, and reddish shades. The ingredients are fresh and neatly placed, showing a variety of colors and textures. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Moroccan Instant Pot Lentils Recipe uses straightforward, wholesome ingredients that each add their own magic. From the earthiness of lentils and sweetness of sweet potatoes to the complex symphony of spices, every component enhances the texture, depth, and color of the final dish.

1 cup whole brown lentils: They provide a tender, protein-rich base that soaks up all the wonderful flavors perfectly.
19 oz can of diced tomatoes: Adds tangy brightness and a subtle sweetness with its juices infused throughout the stew.
2 carrots, peeled and chopped: Contribute slight sweetness and a lovely crunch that balances the softness of lentils.
1 onion, diced: Offers a foundational savory flavor essential to Moroccan cooking.
2 ribs celery, chopped: Bring a subtle herbal note and texture contrast.
4 cups sweet potato cubes (about 1 large or 2 small): These cubes melt into a luscious creaminess that contrasts beautifully with the lentils.
1 teaspoon salt: Essential to boost all the spices and bring harmony to the dish.
1 teaspoon paprika: Adds warm smokiness and a gentle earthiness.
1 teaspoon cumin: A Moroccan staple that infuses the dish with its deep, earthy aroma.
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon: Brings subtle warmth and a hint of sweetness.
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves: Offers an intriguing floral spiciness that elevates the stew.
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger: Adds gentle heat and brightness.
1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the savory base with an extra layer of flavor.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Essential for adding depth and richness.
1/4 teaspoon cayenne: Provides just a touch of kick, adjustable to your spice preference.
1 tablespoon maple syrup: Balances the spices with a natural sweetness; brown sugar or honey work great too.
2 cups vegetable stock: This is the flavor-packed liquid that brings everything together and cooks the lentils perfectly.
1 tablespoon lemon juice: Added at the end to brighten and freshen the whole dish.
Parsley (optional): A fresh herb finish that adds color and a hint of freshness.

How to Make Moroccan Instant Pot Lentils Recipe

Step 1: Combine the Ingredients

Start by adding all the ingredients—except the lemon juice—into the stainless steel insert of your 6 or 8-quart Instant Pot. This simple step is where the magic begins, as all the lentils, veggies, spices, and liquid get to mingle and prepare to become a deeply flavorful stew. Make sure everything is well distributed so that the spices touch all the beautiful veggies and lentils.

Step 2: Pressure Cook the Lentils

Secure the lid on your Instant Pot, set the valve to ‘sealing’, and pressure cook on high for 15 minutes. During this time, the lentils become tender and soak up the complex flavors of the Moroccan spices, while the sweet potatoes soften to a perfect creamy texture. It’s hands-off cooking at its best, allowing you to get other tasks done or simply relax.

Step 3: Natural Pressure Release

Once the cooking time is up, let the Instant Pot naturally release its pressure for 10 minutes. This gentle release helps the lentils finish cooking to the perfect consistency without turning mushy. After those 10 minutes, carefully release any remaining pressure by switching the valve to ‘venting’.

Step 4: Stir and Finish with Lemon Juice

Remove the lid and give everything a good stir to mix all those delicious flavors evenly. Now is the time to add the fresh pops of acidity by stirring in the tablespoon of lemon juice. It brightens the dish and lifts the spices, giving your Moroccan Instant Pot Lentils Recipe a fresh, vibrant finish.

How to Serve Moroccan Instant Pot Lentils Recipe

There are three square clear glass containers arranged vertically on a white marbled surface. Each container is divided into two halves: the left half holds a thick stew made from brown lentils and chunks of orange vegetables, garnished with small green parsley leaves, creating a rich, textured look with bits of red and green visible throughout; the right half contains a pile of light beige quinoa grains with a fluffy texture. The containers are parallel and the colors inside contrast nicely with the clean, white marbled background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To make this dish really sing, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top. The green flecks not only add a splash of color but also a fresh herbal note that contrasts wonderfully with the spice-forward lentils. You could also add a dollop of plain yogurt or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for creaminess and richness.

Side Dishes

This Moroccan Instant Pot Lentils Recipe is wonderfully versatile when pairing with sides. Serve it alongside fluffy rice, warm naan bread, or protein-packed quinoa to soak up every last drop of the stew. A simple mixed salad or roasted vegetables also complement it beautifully for a balanced meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For something fun and visually striking, serve this stew in small bowls topped with toasted nuts and seeds like almonds or pumpkin seeds for crunch. You can also turn it into a filling for pita pockets or use it as a hearty topping for baked sweet potatoes. The options are endless and delicious!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

The flavors of this Moroccan Instant Pot Lentils Recipe only deepen after sitting, making leftovers incredibly satisfying. Store any remaining stew in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days, ensuring you cool it completely before refrigerating to keep it fresh and vibrant.

Freezing

Want to save some for later? This dish freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving some room for expansion, and freeze for up to three months. This makes it a perfect make-ahead meal for busy weeknights.

Reheating

When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, simply thaw overnight in the fridge or reheat directly from frozen in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally. You may want to add a splash of vegetable stock or water to loosen it up if it’s too thick. A quick reheat in the microwave works well too for convenience.

FAQs

Can I use red lentils instead of brown lentils?

Red lentils cook much faster and tend to break down into a mushy texture, which alters the dish significantly. Brown lentils hold their shape better and are preferred for this Moroccan Instant Pot Lentils Recipe, but if pressed, reduce the cooking time accordingly.

Is this recipe vegan and gluten-free?

Absolutely! This Moroccan Instant Pot Lentils Recipe is entirely plant-based and naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for a wide variety of dietary preferences and restrictions.

How spicy is this dish?

The recipe includes just a touch of cayenne, keeping it mildly spicy but warming. You can easily adjust the heat level by increasing or omitting the cayenne pepper to suit your taste.

Can I use fresh garlic and onion instead of powders?

Yes, fresh garlic and onion can add a more intense flavor, but since onion and garlic powder are already included for convenience, using fresh versions might require slight adjustments in quantity. Feel free to experiment and find your perfect balance.

What can I use if I don’t have vegetable stock?

If vegetable stock isn’t available, water will work as a substitute, though the flavor will be slightly less rich. To boost taste, you can add a bit of soy sauce or nutritional yeast to mimic umami depth.

Final Thoughts

This Moroccan Instant Pot Lentils Recipe has quickly become one of my go-to dishes when craving something hearty, flavorful, and easy to throw together. It’s an absolute joy to make and even more satisfying to savor. I wholeheartedly encourage you to dive in and explore the wonderful layers of taste and texture this recipe offers—you won’t regret it!

Moroccan Instant Pot Lentils Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need