Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Rummaniyeh

This Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Rummaniyeh is a warm, rich, and deeply satisfying dish that brings together smoky aubergine, hearty lentils, fragrant baharat spices, and bursts of sweet-tart pomegranate. Inspired by a traditional Palestinian recipe, this version is simplified with just five ingredients—making it approachable while still packing in big flavor. I served it with some warm pitta and fresh herbs and honestly didn’t miss meat one bit. (inspired by Jamie Oliver)

Ingredients Needed

• 2 aubergines (250g each)
• 4 cloves garlic
• 1 tbsp baharat spice mix
• 175g dried brown lentils
• 1 large ripe pomegranate

How To Make Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Rummaniyeh

• Grill the Aubergines: Start by quartering the aubergines lengthwise. Place them under a hot grill for about 6 minutes, turning regularly until they’re softened and lightly charred. Set them aside to cool, then roughly chop.
• Fry the Garlic: Peel and thinly slice the garlic cloves. In a large frying pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and gently fry until golden and fragrant. Remove half of the garlic slices and set them aside for garnish later.
• Cook the Lentils and Aubergine: Add half of the chopped aubergine and all the remaining garlic in the pan. Stir in the baharat spice mix and let it toast briefly. Add the lentils and 1.5 liters of water, then stir well. Bring to a gentle simmer.
• Prep the Pomegranate: While the lentils simmer, halve the pomegranate. Hold each half cut side down over a bowl and whack the back with a wooden spoon to release the seeds. Squeeze a bit of juice into the pan to add tang and brightness.
• Simmer Until Tender: Let everything simmer gently for about 45 minutes, stirring occasionally. The lentils should be soft, and the sauce thick and fragrant.
• Finish and Serve: Add the remaining chopped aubergine and most of the pomegranate seeds to the pan. Stir and warm through. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Divide into bowls, scatter with crispy garlic and the remaining pomegranate seeds, and drizzle with extra virgin olive oil if you like. Serve with warm pitta and a handful of fresh herbs like parsley or coriande

Why I Love This Recipe

It’s hearty, healthy, and packed with flavor—and it’s completely vegan. The combination of lentils and aubergine makes for a filling meal, while the pomegranate brings in a sweet zing that cuts through the richness. Best of all, it comes together with just five ingredients, making it an easy choice when the fridge is looking bare.

Recipe Tips

• Char the aubergine well: That smoky flavor is key, so don’t rush the grilling step.
• Don’t burn the garlic: Keep the heat moderate and stir constantly for golden, not bitter, garlic.
• Use fresh pomegranate: Bottled juice won’t give you the same sweet-tart flavor or texture.
• Stir while simmering: This keeps the lentils from sticking and helps everything cook evenly.
• Finish with herbs: A handful of fresh parsley or mint adds a beautiful final touch.

How To Store & Reheat Rummaniyeh

• In the Fridge : Let it cool, then store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing : Yes, it freezes beautifully. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
• Reheating : Warm in a saucepan over medium heat with a splash of water to loosen it up. Stir occasionally until hot.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

• What is Rummaniyeh?
  It’s a traditional Palestinian dish made with lentils and aubergine, flavored with pomegranate and spices. Jamie’s version simplifies it to just five ingredients.
• Can I use tinned lentils?
  You can, but reduce the water and cooking time since canned lentils are already soft.
• Is baharat spicy?
  Not really—baharat is a warming, aromatic blend of spices. It’s more fragrant than hot.
• What can I serve this with?
  Warm pitta bread, flatbreads, or even a simple cucumber salad pair beautifully.
• Can I use another spice blend?
  Yes! Ras el hanout or za’atar would also be delicious alternatives.

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 200 kcal
• Fat: 5.2g
• Saturated Fat: 0.8g
• Protein: 12.8g
• Carbohydrates: 26.8g
• Sugars: 4.8g
• Salt: 0.2g
• Fibre: 5.6g

Try More Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Recipes:

• 5 Ingredients Winter Greens Gnocchi
• 5 Ingredients Aubergine Flatbreads
• 5 Ingredients Kafteji
• 5 Ingredients Cucumber Fritters