Lentils Cooking Recipe – Lentils are a power-packed source of many minerals. They are packed with fiber, protein, and essential vitamins and can be easily integrated into soups, dips, and even light salads. We have the perfect and most delicious answer for those still wondering how to cook lentils. You can easily cook them right in your kitchen.
For those who don’t already know, there are many varieties of lentils. It includes green lentils, brown lentils, red lentils, french green lentils, black lentils, and more. Additionally, lentils are environment-friendly, highly nutritious, and, at the same time, inexpensive. All you need to know is Lentils Cooking Recipe, and you’re good to go.
More importantly, lentils can be cooked in just a few minutes, which is very helpful. None of us have more spare time, especially during our regular working routines. Hence, here we have all the important information on how to cook lentils on the stove yourself.
Types of Lentils
Here are some common types of lentils:
- Brown Lentils: These are the most basic and common in any grocery store. They have a mild, earthy flavor. Such lentils work best in soups, salads, stews, and casseroles.
- Green Lentils: These are similar to brown lentils, with a slightly peppery flavor. They vary in size and shades of green. These lentils are ideal for side dishes or salads.
- Yellow and Red Lentils: Their color ranges from red and orange to golden yellow. They taste nutty and slightly sweet.
- Specialty Lentils: There are two main types of specialty lentils: black beluga and puy lentils. The first is shiny black, and the other is dark green.
Lentils Cooking Recipe: Ingredients and Detailed Recipe
Ingredients for Lentils Cooking Recipe
- 1 cup of dry lentils (they will turn into 2 – 2 ½ cups of cooked lentils)
- 3-4 cups water
- Salt to taste
- Bay leaf
- Rice (optional – as the side dish)
Step-by-Step Instructions on How to Cook Lentils
Wondering how to cook lentils on the stove top? Here are the step-by-step instructions to follow:
Step 1 – Bring water to a boil: Fill the cooking pot with water and turn on the stove. Please wait for it to boil.
Step 2 – Cleaning and washing lentils: In the meantime, clean the lentils by spreading them out on a clean plate. If you see any dust particles or debris, remove them.
After that, transfer the lentils into a bowl and slowly pour water on it. If any impurities are left, they will come up, and you can remove them easily.
Wash lentils thoroughly 2-3 times until you see clear water.
Step 3 – Add the lentils: Add washed lentils once the water comes to a boil.
Step 4 – Adding flavors: Adding some whole spices would greatly enhance the flavor and make lentils even tastier. You can add a bay leaf, a couple of garlic cloves (peeled), and some salt.
Step 5 – Consistency: Cook the lentil on medium flame until it reaches your desired consistency. It depends on your preferences.
Some people like them cooked in mushy form, some like them as a whole, and some prefer soup consistency.
Step 6 – Removing excess water: Once the desired consistency has been reached, switch off the stove and remove excess water from the lentils.
Step 7 – Almost done: Now remove the bay leaf; if you like the garlic flavor, keep it in the lentils. You can also mash the clove to enhance the taste.
Season the lentils with a pinch of salt because it might have all the salt in it when we remove excess water. Sprinkling a few chopped fresh cilantro leaves would surely make it even tastier.
Your lentils are ready to be enjoyed! You can enjoy them as a dish or have some plain rice with them. It took just a few minutes, and your lentils are ready to eat! Incorporating lentils into your diet would be one of the healthiest habits!
Tips to Cook Lentils
As you have just learned Lentils Cooking Recipe, let us discuss a few tips to cook them the best way:
- Keep lentils moist: If you don’t want them to be hard and dry, always keep some liquid in the pot to keep them moist.
- Garnish at the end: Do not just have the salty lentils; always garnish them at the end with something, such as fresh cilantro leaves or anything else you like.
- Add any flavor: To enhance the taste, you must add any flavor of your choice while cooking, such as garlic, onion, herbs, or celery, or it can be anything else, whatever you prefer!
Other Important Things to Know
- Preparation Time: 5 Minutes
- Cooking Time: 10-12 Minutes
- Total Time: 15-20 Minutes
- Difficulty: Easy
Bottom Line!
Remember, this is one of the most basic and easiest recipes for cooking lentils. There are many ways to cook lentils. You can make your version of any lentils by incorporating various spices, flavors, and other ingredients. Once you know the basics of Lentils Cooking Recipe, you can experiment and make different kinds of lentils for you and your loved ones to enjoy!
FAQs
Q. Should we soak lentils before cooking?
Ans. Soaking lentils is not required, but you must rinse them well before cooking.
Q. What can we add to lentils to make them taste better?
Ans. Salt, garlic, spices, and herbs can be added while cooking lentils to make them taste better.
Q. What do lentils do for the body?
Ans. Lentils contain vitamin B, iron, and lots of folate, which are extremely good for heart health. Consuming lentils lowers the risk of blood pressure and heart disease.
