Easy Tunisian Crock Pot Lentil Soup Recipe

"I found this recipe in one of those small 'check-out counter' slow cooker cook books. It looked interesting, and I was so glad I tried it - it's really delicious; and, a great vegetation dish as well. It's hearty and full of flavor. It's a bit thicker than most soups, so it's sort of a cross between soup and stew. Serve with some crusty bread and a side salad, for an easy dinner."

Step by Step Method

Step 1

Lentils ... The first thing, is to always rinse your lentils- a couple of times. I like to let them set in a bowl of cold water; then, remove any that float to the surface. Drain well; then, add to the crock pot.

Step 2

Vegetables and Spices ... Add 7 cups of broth, and everything - except the sweet potatoes - to the crock pot; and mix to combine. Add the sweet potatoes on top of all the other ingredients in the pot. Do NOT mix them in. The sweet potatoes can get over done and 'mushy' if you mix them in right away.

Step 3

Cook ... Set to low, and cook for 6 hours.

Step 4

Puree ... Scoop out a good 1-1 1/2 cups of the soup, trying not to get any of the sweet potatoes (remember, they are still on top); to a small bowl. Puree using a stick blender; or, you can use a regular blender. I don't completely puree, just a few pulses - enough to give it a creamy texture, but NOT completely smooth. Then, return the puree back to the pot. This time, make sure to stir the entire pot, including those sweet potatoes. Also, If you like your soup a bit thinner, add the remaining cup of broth (which I do). It just depends on the consistency you like. Cover and cook another 30 minutes, while you set the table and get dinner ready. It isn't necessary to puree the cup of soup; but, it does give the soup a nice creamy consistency.

Step 5

Serve and ENJOY! ... Ladle your soup into your bowls/crocks, and garnish with golden raisins, a dollop of yogurt, and fresh cilantro. A delicious vegetarian hearty soup.