Lentils are a versatile and nutritious ingredient that can be used in a wide range of dishes. They are a great source of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. Lentils are also affordable and easy to find at most supermarkets. In this article, we will discuss how to cook lentils and share some delicious recipe ideas.

First, it is important to know that there are different types of lentils, and they all have different cooking times and flavors. The most common types of lentils are brown, green, and red. Brown lentils hold their shape well when cooked and have a slightly nutty flavor. Green lentils are firmer and have a stronger flavor than brown lentils. Red lentils cook faster and have a mild, sweet flavor.

Before cooking lentils, it is recommended to sort and rinse them to remove any debris or dust. To sort lentils, spread them out on a flat surface and remove any pebbles or discolored lentils. Rinse the lentils under cold water and drain them.

To cook lentils, the basic ratio is one part lentils to three parts water or broth. You can also add some aromatics like onions, garlic, or herbs to enhance the flavor. To cook lentils on the stovetop, bring the lentils and liquid to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 20-30 minutes, depending on the type of lentils. Test the lentils for doneness by tasting them for tenderness. Drain any excess liquid and season the lentils with salt and pepper to taste.

Here are some delicious recipe ideas that use lentils:

Lentil soup: In a pot, sauté some onions and garlic in olive oil until softened. Add chopped carrots, celery, and potatoes, along with your cooked lentils and some vegetable broth. Season with salt, pepper, and herbs like thyme or parsley. Simmer for 20-30 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Lentil salad: Mix together cooked lentils, chopped vegetables like cucumber, tomatoes, and bell peppers, along with some crumbled feta cheese or goat cheese. Dress the salad with lemon juice, olive oil, and herbs like parsley or mint. Serve the lentil salad cold or at room temperature.

Lentil shepherd’s pie: In a skillet, sauté some onions, garlic, and ground beef or lamb until browned. Add some chopped carrots and celery, along with cooked lentils and canned tomatoes. Season with salt, pepper, and herbs like rosemary or thyme. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with mashed potatoes. Bake in the oven at 375°F for 20-30 minutes until golden brown.

Lentil curry: In a pot, sauté some onions, garlic, and ginger in oil until fragrant. Add curry powder or paste, along with cooked lentils and some coconut milk or cream. Simmer for 10-15 minutes until the sauce thickens. Serve with rice or naan bread.

In conclusion, lentils are a nutritious and versatile ingredient that can be used in many dishes. Cooking lentils is easy and requires only a few steps. Try these delicious recipe ideas and experiment with different spices and flavorings to find your favorite way to cook lentils.

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