PanPotPlates

Slow Cooker One-Pot

Slow Cooker Moroccan Lentil and Apricot Tagine

By PanPotPlates Test KitchenReviewed by PanPotPlates Editorial TeamPublished May 6, 2026
Moroccan-Inspired 375 mins slowcookeronepotveganglutenfreedairyfreefamilydinnerbudget-friendlyheartycomfortfoodmealprepseasonal

Slow Cooker Moroccan Lentil and Apricot Tagine is a practical PanPotPlates recipe built for dependable weeknight cooking.

Slow Cooker Moroccan Lentil and Apricot Tagine
Prep 15 min
Cook 360 min
Total 375 min
Servings 6
Difficulty easy
Cuisine Moroccan-Inspired

Recipe Details

Prep15 min
Cook360 min
Total375 min
Servings6
Difficultyeasy
CuisineMoroccan-Inspired
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Ingredients

Servings 6
  • 1 1/2 cups green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 1/2 cups dried apricots, chopped
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 3 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 small cinnamon stick
  • 2 tsp ground cumin
  • 2 tsp ground coriander
  • 1 tsp ground ginger
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 tsp turmeric powder
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 cup carrots, peeled and chopped
  • 1 cup sweet potato, peeled and diced
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
  • 1 lemon, cut into wedges (for serving)
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Moroccan Lentil and Apricot Tagine
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Moroccan Lentil and Apricot Tagine

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté for 4-5 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
  2. Transfer the sautéed onion and garlic to the slow cooker. Add lentils, chopped apricots, diced tomatoes with their juices, carrots, and sweet potatoes.
  3. Sprinkle in ground cumin, coriander, ginger, smoked paprika, turmeric, cayenne pepper (if using), and add the cinnamon stick.
  4. Pour in the vegetable broth and gently stir to combine all ingredients evenly. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  5. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until lentils and vegetables are tender and flavors have melded.
  6. About 30 minutes before serving, check seasoning and adjust salt and pepper if needed. Remove the cinnamon stick before serving.
  7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped cilantro and lemon wedges on the side for a bright finish.
  8. This tagine is delicious served over couscous, quinoa, or your favorite grain for a complete and satisfying meal.
Slow Cooker Moroccan Lentil and Apricot Tagine cooking in the recommended pan or pot
Slow Cooker Moroccan Lentil and Apricot Tagine cooking in the recommended pan or pot

Tips

Pan Or Pot Required

This recipe is crafted specifically for a slow cooker , ideal for melding the rich flavors of this Moroccan lentil and apricot tagine with minimal hands-on effort.

Cookware Size Guidance

For best results, use a slow cooker with a 5 to 6-quart capacity for this Slow Cooker Moroccan Lentil and Apricot Tagine.

Cookware Swap Guidance

This Slow Cooker Moroccan Lentil and Apricot Tagine is designed for a slow cooker to develop deep, rich flavors with minimal active time, ideal for a slowcooker , onepot , and familydinner experience.

Leftovers Quality

Reheat gently and add a splash of liquid when needed to keep the texture moist and tender.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Slow Cooker Moroccan Lentil and Apricot Tagine ahead?
Yes. Prep the ingredients or cook the full dish ahead, then reheat gently so the texture stays close to freshly made.
What cookware works best?
Use a slow cooker and avoid crowding so the recipe cooks evenly.
How do I know it is done?
Follow the recipe timing, then check the main ingredient for tenderness, bubbling, browning, or safe doneness before serving.
Can I adjust the seasoning?
Yes. Taste near the end and adjust salt, acid, herbs, or heat in small amounts.

To customize the Slow Cooker Moroccan Lentil and Apricot Tagine to your pantry or dietary needs while maintaining its vegan, gluten-free, and flavorful qualities, consider these ingredient substitutions:

  • Lentils: Use red lentils for a shorter cook time or canned lentils (rinsed) for convenience.
  • Dried Apricots: Substitute with dried peaches, mangoes, or golden raisins for alternative sweetness.
  • Vegetable Broth: Swap for homemade broth, water with vegetable bouillon, or mushroom broth for richer umami flavor.
  • Spices: Replace smoked paprika with regular paprika or mild chili powder. Fresh grated ginger can substitute for ground ginger.
  • Sweet Potato: Use butternut squash or pumpkin for seasonal variety.
  • Onion and Garlic: Shallots or leeks work as onion substitutes; garlic powder can replace fresh garlic if necessary.

This recipe also adapts well to cooking in an Instant Pot on slow cook mode or simmered on the stove in a heavy pot, preserving its Moroccan-inspired, hearty, comforting characteristics with flexible preparation methods.

Storage and Reheating

Cool Slow Cooker Moroccan Lentil and Apricot Tagine before storing. Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freeze portions for longer storage when the ingredients are freezer-friendly. Reheat gently with a splash of liquid if the dish looks dry.

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