A Comforting, Filling Curry
Spelt and Green Lentil Curry is a warm, earthy dish with a rich tomato base, gentle spices, and a soft nutty texture from spelt grains. It is naturally thick, satisfying, and easy to prepare with simple cupboard ingredients. The lentils soak up the spices well, creating a flavourful, balanced bowl. This curry works well for busy evenings or relaxed weekend meals.
Why This Dish Works
Spelt adds structure and a mild nutty taste, while lentils bring protein and bulk. The curry sauce is smooth, mildly spiced, and easy to adjust. It holds up well for meal prep and reheats without losing texture. You can serve it with rice, naan, or even on its own as a complete dish.
Spelt and Green Lentil Curry
Description
This Spelt and Green Lentil Curry combines tender spelt grains, hearty lentils, tomatoes, and warm spices for a rich, comforting dish. It is simple to prepare, high in fibre, and perfect for meal prep. Serve with rice, naan, or enjoy on its own.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
Optional Add-Ins
Instructions
Sauté Aromatics.
- Heat oil in a pot. Cook onion for 3–4 minutes until soft.
Add Garlic and Ginger.
- Stir in garlic and ginger. Cook for 1 minute.
Add Spices.
- Add cumin, turmeric, curry powder, and paprika. Stir for 30 seconds.
Add Lentils and Spelt.
- Add rinsed lentils and spelt. Stir to coat in spices.
Add Tomatoes and Stock.
- Pour in chopped tomatoes and vegetable stock. Mix well.
Simmer.
- Cover and simmer for 35–40 minutes until spelt and lentils are tender.
Season.
- Add salt, pepper, and optional coconut milk or garam masala.
Rest and Serve.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with coriander or lemon juice.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 360kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 7g11%
- Saturated Fat 1g5%
- Sodium 320mg14%
- Potassium 750mg22%
- Total Carbohydrate 58g20%
- Dietary Fiber 13g52%
- Sugars 6g
- Protein 17g34%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Additional Notes
- If the curry thickens too much, add more stock.
- The flavour deepens after a few hours, making it excellent for next-day meals.
- Pearled spelt cooks faster than whole spelt.
Optional Substitutions / Variations
- Swap green lentils for brown lentils.
- Add sweet potato chunks for extra body.
- Use chilli flakes for heat.
- Replace coconut milk with cashew cream for a dairy-free richness.
Storage, Make-Ahead & Serving Suggestions
- Storage: Keeps in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freezes well for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Warm on the hob with a splash of water.
- Serving: Serve with rice, naan, quinoa, or roasted vegetables.
