Spiced Lentils and Farro Dish

This hearty dish combines nutty farro with flavorful spiced lentils for a satisfying and nutritious meal. Perfect for a cozy dinner, it’s easy to make and packed with warm, comforting flavors.

Start cooking ↓

TIME1 hr 5 min

SERVINGS4

RATING5.0 / 5

01 / WHAT YOU NEED

Ingredients

1 teaspoon salt 2 carrots, finely chopped 2 stalks celery, finely chopped 1 small onion, finely chopped 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 tablespoon garam masala 4 cups vegetable broth, or more to taste ½ cup semi-pearled farro 1 cup red lentils

02 / HOW TO MAKE IT

Let's cook.

Step 1

Start by sprinkling some salt over the chopped carrots, celery, and onion. Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large pot over medium heat, then add the veggies and cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes translucent—this usually takes about 5 minutes. Push the vegetables to the sides to make a little space in the center of the pot, and add another tablespoon of oil there. Sprinkle the garam masala into the hot oil and let it toast for a minute or two until fragrant, then mix it all together with the vegetables so everything gets coated in those spices.

02

Step 2

Next, pour in the vegetable broth and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, lower the heat to medium-low and stir in the farro. Cover the pot and let it simmer gently for about 20 minutes, or until the farro is just about tender. Add the lentils, cover again, and continue simmering for another 20 minutes or so, adding a splash more broth if it starts to get too thick. When both the lentils and farro are tender but still hold their shape, taste and adjust the seasoning with salt if needed.

03 / EXTRA DETAILS

Good to know.

Cook's tip

- Rinse farro well before cooking to remove any dust or debris.
- Cook lentils until just tender to avoid them becoming mushy.
- Toast the spices briefly in a dry pan to unlock their full aroma before adding them to the dish.

Why you’ll love it

This dish is hearty and full of flavor thanks to the warm spices and nutty farro. It’s a great way to enjoy plant-based protein while feeling satisfied. Plus, it’s easy to make and perfect for meal prep.

Serving ideas

Serve warm as a main course or as a side alongside roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. Adding a dollop of yogurt or a squeeze of lemon can brighten the flavors and add a creamy contrast.

Storage & leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if the dish seems dry. This meal also freezes well for up to 2 months.