Save A comforting, rustic one-pot meal featuring nutty whole wheat berries, tender lentils, and a richly spiced tomato curry. Perfect for a wholesome, warming dinner.
This hearty lentil curry has become a staple in my home especially during chilly evenings when comfort food is a must.
Ingredients
- Whole wheat berries: 1 cup, rinsed
- Dried brown or green lentils: 1 cup, rinsed
- Large onion: 1, finely chopped
- Garlic cloves: 2, minced
- Ginger: 1-inch piece, grated
- Carrots: 2 medium, diced
- Red bell pepper: 1, diced
- Can diced tomatoes: 1 (14 oz / 400 g)
- Vegetable broth: 4 cups (1 liter)
- Olive oil: 2 tbsp
- Ground cumin: 2 tsp
- Ground coriander: 1 tsp
- Turmeric: 1 tsp
- Garam masala: 1 tsp
- Smoked paprika: 1/2 tsp
- Chili flakes: 1/2 tsp (optional for heat)
- Salt and pepper: to taste
- Fresh cilantro: 1/2 cup, chopped
- Lemon juice: 1 tbsp
- Greek yogurt or coconut yogurt: for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a large heavy-bottomed pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Step 2:
- Stir in garlic and ginger sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Step 3:
- Add carrots and bell pepper cook for 3 minutes.
- Step 4:
- Sprinkle in cumin, coriander, turmeric, garam masala, smoked paprika, and chili flakes. Stir for 1 minute to toast spices.
- Step 5:
- Add wheat berries and lentils. Pour in diced tomatoes and vegetable broth. Stir to combine scraping up any browned bits.
- Step 6:
- Bring to a boil then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 45 50 minutes or until wheat berries and lentils are tender and the curry is thickened. Stir occasionally and add more broth or water if needed.
- Step 7:
- Season with salt and pepper. Stir in lemon juice and half the chopped cilantro.
- Step 8:
- Serve hot garnished with remaining cilantro and a dollop of yogurt if desired.
Save Sharing this meal has brought warmth and joy to many family dinners, creating lasting memories around the table.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this curry with naan or crusty bread to complete the meal and pair it with a dry Riesling or light-bodied red wine.
Allergen Information
Contains wheat gluten. Dairy may be present if serving with Greek yogurt use coconut yogurt for a dairy-free option.
Nutritional Information
Per serving provides approximately 410 calories with 7 grams of fat, 71 grams of carbohydrates, and 18 grams of protein.
Save This lentil curry is the perfect blend of hearty and healthy for your next dinner.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the wheat berries with brown rice or quinoa to keep a similar texture without gluten.
- → What spices create the flavor?
Cumin, coriander, turmeric, garam masala, smoked paprika, and chili flakes come together to produce a warm, complex profile.
- → How do I ensure the lentils and wheat berries cook evenly?
Simmer gently for 45–50 minutes, stirring occasionally, and add broth if needed to maintain moisture and tenderness.
- → Can I add more vegetables?
Yes, spinach or kale stirred in during the last 5 minutes adds extra greens and nutrition.
- → What can I serve alongside this dish?
Naan bread or crusty bread complements the hearty curry well, and a dry Riesling or light-bodied red wine pairs nicely.