How To Cook Lentils
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
2 mins
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Cook Time
20 mins
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Total Time
22 mins
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Servings
4 servings
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Calories
209 kcal
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Course
Side Dish, Main Course, Salad
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Cuisine
American
How To Cook Lentils
Description
How To Cook Lentils involves rinsing one cup of lentils thoroughly to remove any debris, then placing them in three cups of water with optional bay leaves and seasonings (excluding salt). The lentils are brought to a rapid boil, covered, and then simmered until tender, typically 20 to 25 minutes. They are considered ready when soft but not mushy.
After cooking, any excess liquid is drained, bay leaves removed, and salt is added to taste. This approach prevents tough lentils caused by early salting. Lentils cooked this way can be eaten alone or added to salads and soups.
Seasoning the cooking water with herbs or peppercorns enhances flavor during simmering. If lentils remain firm after the initial cooking time, checking them every few minutes ensures perfect doneness without overcooking.
Ingredients
- 1 cup lentils
- 3 cups water
Instructions
- Rinse the lentils thoroughly under running water and remove any debris and rocks.
- Combine 1 cup of lentils and 3 cups of water in a pot. Add bay leave and any seasonings (without salt).
- Bring to a rapid boil over medium-high heat, cover with a lid and then reduce the heat to simmer. Simmer the lentils for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
- Lentils are ready as soon as they are tender and no longer crunchy. Drain any remaining liquid, remove the bay leave, and season with salt as needed. You can enjoy them on their own or add the lentils to soup or salads.
Notes
- Always rinse and sort lentils before cooking to remove stones and debris.
- Add bay leaves and peppercorns to the cooking water to enhance flavor.
- Do not add salt before or during cooking to avoid tough lentils; salt after cooking instead.
- Vegetable stock can replace water for a richer taste.
- Check lentils starting at 20 minutes and continue simmering for short intervals until tender.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 209 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 209kcal | 10% |
| Carbohydrates | 36g | 12% |
| Protein | 15g | 30% |
| Fat | 1g | 2% |
| Saturated Fat | 1g | 5% |
| Sodium | 9mg | 0% |
| Potassium | 565mg | 12% |
| Fiber | 18g | 72% |
| Sugar | 1g | 2% |
| Vitamin A | 23IU | 0% |
| Vitamin C | 3mg | 3% |
| Calcium | 37mg | 4% |
| Iron | 4mg | 22% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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