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Spelt Lentil and Tomato Ragu

Spelt Lentil and Tomato Ragu

A Comforting Plant-Based Dish

Spelt Lentil and Tomato Ragu is a hearty, nutritious vegetarian meal. Lentils provide protein and texture, while spelt grains add a subtle nuttiness. Simmered tomatoes, herbs, and garlic create rich, comforting flavours. Perfect over pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables for a satisfying dinner. Quick to prepare, naturally wholesome, and ideal for plant-based meals.

Why This Ragu Works

Slow simmering enhances the tomato and herb flavours. Lentils make it filling without meat. Spelt grains absorb flavours and give a slightly chewy, satisfying texture. Simple, budget-friendly ingredients create a rich, wholesome dish. Perfect for meal prep or serving immediately as a comforting dinner.

Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 35 mins
Total Time 50 mins
Cuisine: ,
Courses: ,
Difficulty: Beginner
Servings: 6
Estimated Cost: 6
Calories: 320
Best Season: Suitable throughout the year
Dietary: Vegetarian
Description

Wholesome Spelt Lentil and Tomato Ragu with rich tomato sauce, tender lentils, and chewy spelt grains. Quick, nutritious, and filling vegetarian meal, ideal with pasta, rice, or vegetables.

Ingredients
  • 150 g spelt grains (rinsed)
  • 200 g dried or canned brown lentils (drained and rinsed if canned)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 onion (chopped)
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 2 carrots (chopped)
  • 2 celery sticks (chopped)
  • 400 g canned chopped tomatoes
  • 2 tbsp tomato purée
  • 300 ml vegetable stock
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • ½ tsp chili flakes (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper (to taste)
  • Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Instructions
    Cook spelt grains.
  1. 1
    Boil spelt in salted water for 20 minutes until tender. Drain and set aside.
    2. Prepare lentils.
  2. 2
    Cook lentils in simmering water for 15–20 minutes until tender. Drain and set aside.
    3. Sauté vegetables.
  3. 3
    Heat olive oil in a large pan. Sauté onion, garlic, carrots, and celery until softened, about 5 minutes.
    4. Add tomatoes and herbs.
  4. 4
    Stir in chopped tomatoes, tomato purée, oregano, basil, and chili flakes. Simmer for 10 minutes.
    5. Combine lentils and spelt.
  5. 5
    Add cooked lentils and spelt grains to the tomato mixture. Stir well.
    6. Simmer ragu.
  6. 6
    Pour in vegetable stock, bring to a gentle simmer for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
    7. Serve.
  7. 7
    Spoon ragu over pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables. Garnish with fresh parsley.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 6

Amount Per Serving
Calories 320kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 7g11%
Saturated Fat 1g5%
Sodium 320mg14%
Potassium 600mg18%
Total Carbohydrate 50g17%
Dietary Fiber 10g40%
Sugars 6g
Protein 15g30%

* 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

  • Use dried or canned lentils; adjust cooking time accordingly.
  • Spelt grains can be soaked for 30 minutes prior to cooking for faster preparation.
  • Add a splash of balsamic vinegar before serving for extra depth.

Optional Substitutions & Variations

  • Use red lentils for quicker cooking and a smoother texture.
  • Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra vegetables.
  • Spice up with smoked paprika or cumin for a different flavour profile.
  • Serve over polenta or quinoa instead of pasta or rice.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

  • Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
  • Freezes well for up to 2 months; thaw before reheating.
Keywords: spelt lentil ragu, vegetarian ragu, plant-based dinner, tomato ragu

Tips & Variations

Cook spelt and lentils separately to avoid overcooking.
Adjust consistency with extra stock if needed for a saucier ragu.

Serving Ideas

  • With spaghetti or penne for a classic pasta dish.
  • Over roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.
  • Garnish with fresh herbs and a drizzle of olive oil.

Conclusion

Spelt Lentil and Tomato Ragu is a wholesome, hearty meal that’s full of flavour and nutrition.
Perfect for vegetarian or vegan dinners, it’s filling, budget-friendly, and easy to make.
Serve over pasta, grains, or vegetables for a comforting and satisfying dish.
This ragu is a plant-based favourite for the whole family.

Read it online: https://greatbritishspeltrecipes.com/recipe/spelt-lentil-and-tomato-ragu/
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!