This Moroccan Beef and Lentil Stew is a flavorful and comforting dish that combines tender beef, nutritious lentils, and aromatic spices. The stew is slow-cooked to perfection, allowing the flavors to meld together and create a rich and satisfying meal. With a preparation time of just 30 minutes, this stew is perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy weekend meals. Serve it with warm crusty bread or couscous for a complete and nourishing meal.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into cubes
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup dried lentils
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the beef stew meat and brown on all sides. Remove from the pot and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
- Add the chopped carrots and red bell pepper to the pot. Sauté for a few minutes until they start to soften.
- Return the browned beef stew meat to the pot.
- Add the diced tomatoes, dried lentils, beef broth, ground cumin, ground coriander, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper to the pot.
- Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, until the beef is tender and the lentils are cooked.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve the Moroccan Beef and Lentil Stew hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.
Interesting Facts
Moroccan cuisine is known for its bold and exotic flavors.
Lentils are a great source of protein and fiber, making this stew both delicious and nutritious.
Traditionally, Moroccan stews are slow-cooked in a clay pot called a tagine, but a Dutch oven works just as well.
The combination of spices like cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and ginger give this stew its distinctive Moroccan flair.