Healing Moroccan Vegetable Stew with Lentils & Turmeric
This comforting stew is full of grounding vegetables, warming spices, and nutrient-dense lentils – a bowl that’s as soothing as it is strengthening. Inspired by Moroccan flavors, it balances sweet and savory notes with ginger, turmeric, and a hint of cinnamon. It’s a deeply restorative meal for anyone supporting recovery, balance, and immune health.
- 2 Tbsp Olive Oil (or avocado oil)
- 1 Small Onion
- 2 cloves Garlic
- 1-inch piece Fresh Ginger grated
- 1 tsp Turmeric
- 1 tsp Cumin
- 1/2 tsp Cinnamon
- 1 cup Red Lentils rinsed
- 2 cups Diced Carrots and/or Sweet Potato
- 1 Red Bell Pepper chopped
- 1 Zucchini chopped
- 1 can Crushed Tomatoes (14 oz)
- 4 cups Vegetable Broth
- 1 cup Kale or Spinach
- 1/2 Lemon juiced
- Sea Salt & Black Pepper to taste
- Chopped Cilantro or Parsley for garnish
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Add onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Stir in garlic, ginger, and spices; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add lentils, carrots, bell pepper, zucchini, tomatoes, and broth.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until lentils and vegetables are tender.
Stir in greens and simmer another 5 minutes.
Finish with lemon juice and adjust seasoning.
Serve warm, topped with fresh herbs.
Optional Add-Ons & Swaps
- Add a handful of chopped dried apricots or golden raisins for gentle sweetness and extra antioxidants.
- Top with a dollop of plain yogurt or cashew cream for creaminess.
- Swap red lentils for chickpeas for more texture.
- Sprinkle with toasted pumpkin seeds for zinc and healthy fats.
Why It’s Healing
- Turmeric & Ginger: Potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds (curcumin and gingerols) support immune modulation and reduce cancer-related inflammation.
- Lentils: High in fiber and plant-based protein, they stabilize blood sugar and support gut health.
- Cruciferous & Leafy Greens: Contain sulforaphane and chlorophyll, which help detoxify carcinogens and support cellular repair.
- Carotenoid-rich vegetables (carrots, sweet potatoes): Promote immune resilience and protect cells from oxidative stress.
- Lemon & herbs: Provide vitamin C and phytonutrients that enhance detoxification and brighten the dish naturally.
