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How To Cook Lentils
5 from 15 votes

How To Cook Lentils

This How To Cook Lentils recipe explains simmering rinsed lentils in water until tender, then seasoning after cooking. It uses simple ingredients and a straightforward method to yield properly cooked lentils suitable for soups, salads, or as a side. The technique emphasizes avoiding premature salting to ensure lentils soften correctly.

Prep Time
2 mins
Cook Time
20 mins
Total Time
22 mins
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 209 kcal
Course: Side Dish, Main Course, Salad
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

  • 1 cup lentils
  • 3 cups water

Instructions

    Cup of Yum
  1. Rinse the lentils thoroughly under running water and remove any debris and rocks.
  2. Combine 1 cup of lentils and 3 cups of water in a pot. Add bay leave and any seasonings (without salt).
  3. 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.
  4. 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

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%)

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 4 servings

Amount Per Serving

Calories 209

% 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.