Why Soak Lentils?
Soaking lentils before cooking them can help reduce the cooking time and improve their digestibility. However, we understand that sometimes you just don’t have the time or simply forget to soak them. Don’t worry; you can still enjoy delicious lentil dishes without the soaking step. Here’s how.
Method 1: Boiling
The quickest way to cook lentils without soaking is by boiling them. Follow these simple steps:
- Rinse the lentils thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or debris.
- In a pot, add three cups of water for every cup of lentils.
- Bring the water to a boil and add the rinsed lentils.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the lentils simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until they are tender.
- Drain any excess water and use the cooked lentils in your desired recipe.
Method 2: Pressure Cooking
If you own a pressure cooker, it can be a lifesaver when it comes to quick lentil cooking. Here’s how to cook lentils without soaking using a pressure cooker:
- Rinse the lentils under running water just like in the boiling method.
- Add the rinsed lentils to the pressure cooker.
- For every cup of lentils, add two cups of water.
- Lock the lid and set the pressure cooker to high pressure.
- Cook for about 8-10 minutes and then release the pressure naturally.
- Your lentils should now be perfectly cooked and ready to be used in any recipe of your choice.
Dish Ideas
Now that you know how to cook lentils quickly without soaking, here are a few recipe ideas to get you started:
- Curried Lentil Soup: Sauté onions, garlic, and spices, add cooked lentils and vegetable broth. Simmer until flavors meld together.
- Lentil Salad: Combine cooked lentils, chopped vegetables, and a zesty dressing for a nutritious and refreshing salad.
- Lentil Curry: Cook lentils in a flavorful curry sauce with coconut milk, tomatoes, and spices. Serve with rice or naan bread.
With these quick and easy lentil recipes, you can have a nutritious meal on the table in no time. So don’t let the lack of soaking time discourage you from enjoying the goodness of lentils. Happy cooking!