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Wheat Warm Hearty Lentil Curry

Featured in: Simple One-Pot Home Comforts

This comforting dish combines earthy whole wheat berries with tender lentils, simmered in a richly spiced tomato base. Aromatics like garlic, ginger, and onion build a fragrant foundation, while cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala deepen the flavor. Carrots and bell peppers add color and texture. The one-pot preparation allows flavors to meld during a slow simmer, resulting in a hearty, nourishing meal ideal for cooler evenings. Fresh cilantro and a splash of lemon juice brighten the dish before serving, with optional yogurt to add creaminess.

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Updated on Sun, 07 Dec 2025 13:39:00 GMT
Steaming Wheat-Warm Hearty Lentil Curry with vibrantly diced vegetables and a fragrant spice blend. Save
Steaming Wheat-Warm Hearty Lentil Curry with vibrantly diced vegetables and a fragrant spice blend. | rusticmint.com

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.

I have always enjoyed the cozy feeling this lentil curry brings to the table especially on chilly evenings.

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 piece: 1-inch, grated
  • Medium carrots: 2, 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 (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

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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 4550 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
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| rusticmint.com

This lentil curry always brings my family together especially when served alongside warm naan bread.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this lentil curry with naan or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce and pair 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 Always check ingredient labels for cross-contamination or hidden allergens

Nutritional Information

Per serving Calories 410 Total Fat 7 g Carbohydrates 71 g Protein 18 g

A close-up of a bowl brimming with hearty Wheat-Warm Lentil Curry, garnished with fresh cilantro and yogurt. Save
A close-up of a bowl brimming with hearty Wheat-Warm Lentil Curry, garnished with fresh cilantro and yogurt. | rusticmint.com
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This hearty lentil curry is easy to prepare and even better as leftovers making weeknight dinners a breeze.

Common Questions

→ Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, substitute wheat berries with gluten-free grains like brown rice or quinoa to maintain texture and flavor.

→ How do I adjust the spice level?

Reduce or omit chili flakes for a milder taste or add more for extra heat according to preference.

→ What can I use as a garnish?

Fresh cilantro and a dollop of Greek or coconut yogurt add freshness and creaminess to the dish.

→ Can I add extra vegetables?

Yes, adding chopped spinach or kale in the last 5 minutes of cooking boosts nutrition and color.

→ What dishes pair well with this meal?

Serve alongside naan or crusty bread for a satisfying combination, or pair with dry Riesling or light red wine.

Wheat Warm Hearty Lentil Curry

Nutty wheat berries and tender lentils simmer with spices and tomatoes for a warm, wholesome dinner.

Prep Duration
20 minutes
Time to Cook
50 minutes
All Steps Time
70 minutes
Created by Benjamin Thomas


Skill Level Medium

Tradition Indian-inspired

Makes 4 Portions

Nutrition Info Vegetarian-Friendly

What You'll Need

Grains & Legumes

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

Aromatics & Vegetables

01 1 large onion, finely chopped
02 2 cloves garlic, minced
03 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated
04 2 medium carrots, diced
05 1 red bell pepper, diced
06 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
07 4 cups vegetable broth

Spices

01 2 tbsp olive oil
02 2 tsp ground cumin
03 1 tsp ground coriander
04 1 tsp turmeric powder
05 1 tsp garam masala
06 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
07 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional)
08 Salt and black pepper, to taste

Finishing Touches

01 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
02 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
03 Greek yogurt or coconut yogurt, for serving (optional)

Method

Step 01

Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, approximately 5 minutes.

Step 02

Add Garlic and Ginger: Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger; sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 03

Cook Vegetables: Add diced carrots and red bell pepper to the pot and cook for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 04

Toast Spices: Sprinkle in ground cumin, coriander, turmeric, garam masala, smoked paprika, and chili flakes if using. Stir continuously for 1 minute to release the spices’ aromas.

Step 05

Combine Grains and Liquids: Add rinsed whole wheat berries and lentils to the pot. Pour in diced tomatoes with juices and vegetable broth. Stir gently, scraping the pot to incorporate any browned bits.

Step 06

Simmer Until Tender: Bring the 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 additional broth or water if necessary.

Step 07

Season and Finish: Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir in fresh lemon juice and half of the chopped cilantro.

Step 08

Serve: Ladle into bowls and garnish with remaining cilantro. Optionally, add a dollop of Greek or coconut yogurt. Serve warm.

Tools Needed

  • Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
  • Chef’s knife
  • Cutting board
  • Wooden spoon

Allergy Notes

Look over every ingredient for allergens, and reach out to your doctor if you're unsure.
  • Contains wheat (gluten).
  • May contain dairy if served with Greek yogurt; substitute coconut yogurt for dairy-free option.
  • Check labels for potential cross-contamination with allergens.

Nutrition Breakdown (each portion)

Provided as a general guide by Rustic Mint—always speak with your doctor for dietary help.
  • Energy (Kcal): 410
  • Lipids: 7 g
  • Carbohydrates: 71 g
  • Proteins: 18 g