Wheat Warm Hearty Lentil (Print View)

Nutty wheat berries and tender lentils in a warmly spiced tomato blend, perfect for a wholesome meal.

# What You'll Need:

→ Grains & Legumes

01 - 1 cup whole wheat berries, rinsed
02 - 1 cup dried brown or green lentils, rinsed

→ Aromatics & Vegetables

03 - 1 large onion, finely chopped
04 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
05 - 1-inch piece ginger, grated
06 - 2 medium carrots, diced
07 - 1 red bell pepper, diced
08 - 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
09 - 4 cups vegetable broth

→ Spices

10 - 2 tbsp olive oil
11 - 2 tsp ground cumin
12 - 1 tsp ground coriander
13 - 1 tsp turmeric
14 - 1 tsp garam masala
15 - 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
16 - 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional)
17 - Salt and pepper, to taste

→ Finishing Touches

18 - 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
19 - 1 tbsp lemon juice
20 - Greek yogurt or coconut yogurt, for serving (optional)

# Step-by-Step Directions:

01 - Heat olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
02 - Stir in minced garlic and grated ginger, sautéing for 1 minute until fragrant.
03 - Add diced carrots and red bell pepper, cooking for 3 minutes to soften.
04 - Sprinkle in cumin, coriander, turmeric, garam masala, smoked paprika, and optional chili flakes. Stir continuously for 1 minute to release the spices’ aroma.
05 - Add rinsed wheat berries and lentils to the pot. Pour in diced tomatoes and vegetable broth. Stir well, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
06 - Bring mixture 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 has thickened. Stir occasionally and add extra broth or water if needed.
07 - Season with salt and pepper. Stir in lemon juice and half of the chopped cilantro.
08 - Ladle into bowls and garnish with remaining cilantro. Add a dollop of Greek or coconut yogurt if desired.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • Nutty whole wheat berries provide a hearty texture
  • Richly spiced tomato curry delivers warming flavors
02 -
  • For gluten-free options substitute wheat berries with brown rice or quinoa
  • Add chopped spinach or kale in the last 5 minutes for extra greens
03 -
  • Use a heavy-bottomed pot to prevent burning and ensure even cooking
  • Toast spices briefly to release their full aroma and flavor
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