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5.0 from 15 votes

How To Cook Lentils

Lentils are a versatile, protein-packed legume that can be used in a variety of dishes. Learn how to cook lentils perfectly every time with these easy tips and recipes.

Prep Time
2 mins
Cook Time
2 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

  • Be sure to rinse and sift your lentils before cooking them to remove any rocks. They aren't too pleasant when you bite into them!
  • Be sure to season the water, I like to add bay leaves and sometimes peppercorns. This helps to bring out the natural flavors of the lentils.
  • Don't add salt to the lentils before cooking, or they will be tough. Add salt after you cook them.
  • For more flavor, you can cook the lentils in vegetable stock rather than water.
  • If after 20 minutes simmering, lentils are not tender, check them every 3 minutes after that.

Nutrition Information

Calories 209kcal (10%) Carbohydrates 36g (12%) Protein 15g (30%) Fat 1g (2%) Saturated Fat 1g (5%) Sodium 9mg (0%) Potassium 565mg (16%) Fiber 18g (72%) Sugar 1g (2%) Vitamin A 23IU (0%) Vitamin C 3mg (3%) Calcium 37mg (4%) Iron 4mg (22%)

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 4servings

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.