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Spelt and Green Lentil Curry

Bowl of Spelt and Green Lentil Curry with visible lentils, spelt grains, tomato base, warm golden tones, coriander garnish. Served in a ceramic bowl on a rustic table.

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.

Prep Time 10 mins
Cook Time 40 mins
Rest Time 5 mins
Total Time 55 mins
Cuisine:
Courses:
Difficulty: Beginner
Servings: 4
Estimated Cost: 5
Calories: 360
Best Season: Fall, Winter
Dietary: Vegan
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
  • 120 g pearled spelt (rinsed)
  • 150 g green lentils (rinsed)
  • 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
  • 3 garlic cloves (minced)
  • 1 tbsp ginger (grated)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp turmeric
  • 1 ½ tsp mild curry powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 400 g chopped tomatoes (tinned)
  • 600 ml vegetable stock
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
    • Optional Add-Ins
  • 100 ml coconut milk (for creaminess)
  • 1 tsp garam masala at the end
  • Fresh spinach (stirred in before serving)
  • Fresh coriander (to garnish)
  • Lemon juice (for brightness)
Instructions
    Sauté Aromatics.
  1. 1
    Heat oil in a pot. Cook onion for 3–4 minutes until soft.
    2. Add Garlic and Ginger.
  2. 2
    Stir in garlic and ginger. Cook for 1 minute.
    3. Add Spices.
  3. 3
    Add cumin, turmeric, curry powder, and paprika. Stir for 30 seconds.
    4. Add Lentils and Spelt.
  4. 4
    Add rinsed lentils and spelt. Stir to coat in spices.
    5. Add Tomatoes and Stock.
  5. 5
    Pour in chopped tomatoes and vegetable stock. Mix well.
    6. Simmer.
  6. 6
    Cover and simmer for 35–40 minutes until spelt and lentils are tender.
    7. Season.
  7. 7
    Add salt, pepper, and optional coconut milk or garam masala.
    8. Rest and Serve.
  8. 8
    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.
Keywords: spelt curry, lentil curry, vegan curry, healthy dinner, spelt recipes

Tips & Variations

Boosting Flavour

Add a spoonful of tomato paste to deepen the colour and taste. Finish with lemon juice to brighten the dish and balance the spices.

Extra Vegetables

Stir in spinach, peas, red peppers, or cauliflower in the last 10 minutes of cooking. This increases texture and adds colour.

Conclusion

Spelt and Green Lentil Curry is hearty, simple, and full of natural depth. It makes an excellent weeknight dinner and holds up well in the fridge. Try it soon and enjoy a warm, fibre-rich bowl that feels both comforting and nourishing.

Read it online: https://greatbritishspeltrecipes.com/recipe/spelt-and-green-lentil-curry/
Valentina - Spelt Recipes
Valentina
A dietitian with a passion for spelt cooking. After trying different diets, I found spelt works best in my kitchen. Join me for simple, delicious recipes that bring out the best in this ancient grain!