How To Cook Lentils | Step-By-Step Stovetop Lentils
Whether you're a seasoned chef or new to the kitchen, knowing how to cook lentils on the stovetop is essential! This guide will teach you about these small yet flavorful legumes, from measuring and cooking to storage and seasoning. Learn tips for the Instant Pot and slow cooker too!
Servings: 4 servings
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
Ingredients
- 1 cup lentils dry
- 3 cups water
Instructions
- Sort: Spread lentils out on a plate so you can see them all, discarding any that are discolored, as well as any pebbles or other debris.
- Rinse: Place the lentils in a fine-mesh strainer and rinse them thoroughly under cold water, allowing them to drain afterward.
- Flavor: In a pot, combine the lentils with water. To enhance the flavor, add aromatics like bay leaves, garlic, or a sprig of rosemary.
- Cook: Bring the lentil mixture to a boil on the stovetop. Once boiling, cover the pot and reduce the heat to a simmer for 20-30 minutes for green, brown, and black varieties. For red and yellow lentils, cook for 8-9 minutes.
Video
Notes
Storage: Lentils store well, making them perfect for meal prep! Just follow these simple tips:
Fridge: Once completely cooled, store cooked lentils in an airtight container for up to a week.
Freezer: You can freeze any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 6 months.
Reheating: When you’re ready to eat again, reheat them on the stovetop or microwave until warmed through.
Nutrition
Serving: 1serving | Calories: 169kcal | Carbohydrates: 28.8g | Protein: 12.4g | Fat: 0.5g | Saturated Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 0mg | Sodium: 3mg | Potassium: 458mg | Fiber: 14.6g | Sugar: 1g | Calcium: 27mg | Iron: 4mg
