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How to Cook Lentils Perfectly (Not Mushy)
5 from 105 votes

How to Cook Lentils Perfectly (Not Mushy)

This recipe details how to cook lentils so they become tender without turning mushy. Using simple ingredients like lentils, water, and optional bay leaf and kombu, it explains rinsing, simmering at low heat, and timing to preserve the lentils' shape and texture. The method suits those aiming for lentils with a firm bite for salads, side dishes, or other recipes.

Prep Time
5 mins
Cook Time
25 mins
Total Time
30 mins
Servings: 5 servings
Calories: 135 kcal
Course: Side Dish, Main Course
Cuisine: Asian, Mediterranean

Ingredients

  • 1 cup lentils
  • 4 cups water
Optional
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 small piece kombu (approx 3 to 4 inches)

Instructions

    Cup of Yum
  1. Rinse the lentils in a fine mesh sieve under the faucet. Inspect the lentils and remove any bad lentils or small stones.
  2. Add the lentils, water, bay leaf and kombu to a pot. Bring the pot to a boil, reduce heat to a very low simmer, cover the pot with a lid and cook for 20 to 30 minutes or until tender but not mushy. 
  3. Drain the lentils, remove the bay leaf and kombu and serve. 

Nutrition Information

Serving 0.5cup Calories 135kcal (7%) Carbohydrates 23g (8%) Protein 9g (18%) Sodium 13mg (1%) Potassium 366mg (8%) Fiber 11g (44%) Vitamin A 15IU (0%) Vitamin C 1.7mg (2%) Calcium 28mg (3%) Iron 2.9mg (16%)

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 5 servings

Amount Per Serving

Calories 135

% Daily Value*

Serving 0.5cup
Calories 135kcal 7%
Carbohydrates 23g 8%
Protein 9g 18%
Sodium 13mg 1%
Potassium 366mg 8%
Fiber 11g 44%
Vitamin A 15IU 0%
Vitamin C 1.7mg 2%
Calcium 28mg 3%
Iron 2.9mg 16%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.