Pin it 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 lentil curry has become a family favorite for chilly evenings. I love how the flavors meld beautifully as it simmers.
Ingredients
- Whole Wheat Berries: 1 cup rinsed
- Dried Brown or Green Lentils: 1 cup rinsed
- Onion: 1 large finely chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves minced
- Ginger: 1-inch piece grated
- Carrots: 2 medium diced
- Red Bell Pepper: 1 diced
- Diced Tomatoes: 1 (14 oz / 400 g) can
- 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 (optional): 1/2 tsp
- Salt and Pepper: to taste
- Fresh Cilantro: 1/2 cup chopped
- Lemon Juice: 1 tbsp
- Greek 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 to 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.
Pin it Sharing this meal with my family has brought us closer and created cherished memories around the dinner table.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with naan or crusty bread for a heartier meal and pair nicely 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 dairy-free option.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 410 | Total Fat: 7 g | Carbohydrates: 71 g | Protein: 18 g per serving.
Pin it This lentil curry is both nourishing and delicious—a perfect addition to your weekly meal plan.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can wheat berries be substituted for gluten-free diets?
Yes, brown rice or quinoa are excellent gluten-free alternatives that maintain the dish's hearty texture.
- → How long does the cooking process take?
After prepping aromatics and spices, the wheat berries and lentils simmer for about 45-50 minutes until tender.
- → What spices give this dish its flavor?
Cumin, coriander, turmeric, garam masala, smoked paprika, and optional chili flakes provide a warm, layered spice profile.
- → Are there suggested vegetables to add for extra nutrition?
Spinach or kale added in the last five minutes enhance the meal with additional greens and vitamins.
- → What is a good accompaniment for this dish?
Naan or crusty bread pairs well, and it complements light-bodied red wine or dry Riesling.