Save to Pinterest 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 dish quickly became a family favorite as it brings warmth and comfort on chilly evenings.
Ingredients
- Whole wheat berries: 1 cup, rinsed
- Dried brown or green lentils: 1 cup, rinsed
- Large onion: 1, finely chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Ginger: 1-inch piece, grated
- Carrots: 2 medium, diced
- Red bell pepper: 1, diced
- Diced tomatoes: 1 can (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 to Pinterest Gathering around to enjoy this warm curry has created many memorable family moments and cozy evenings.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with naan or crusty bread for a more filling meal, and pair with a dry Riesling or light-bodied red wine for a balanced flavor profile.
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: Calories 410, Total Fat 7 g, Carbohydrates 71 g, Protein 18 g.
Save to Pinterest This hearty lentil curry is a delicious way to enjoy a nutritious and comforting meal that pleases both the palate and the soul.
Recipe Frequently Asked Questions
- → How should I prepare the wheat berries before cooking?
Rinse wheat berries thoroughly under cold water before adding them to the pot to ensure any impurities are removed and to enhance texture.
- → Can I substitute the wheat berries for a gluten-free alternative?
Yes, brown rice or quinoa can replace wheat berries for a gluten-free version while maintaining a hearty texture.
- → What spices give this dish its depth of flavor?
A mix of cumin, coriander, turmeric, garam masala, smoked paprika, and optional chili flakes creates the warm, aromatic spice profile.
- → How do I know when the lentils and wheat berries are done?
Simmer for about 45–50 minutes, checking for tender wheat berries and fully cooked lentils; they should be soft but hold shape.
- → What are good serving suggestions for this dish?
Serve hot garnished with fresh cilantro and a dollop of yogurt. It pairs well with naan, crusty bread, or a light-bodied wine.