If you are looking for the best way to cook lentils them on bing or google, I think you are right the place. In this article, I will instruct you how to cook lentils on stovetop perfectly and not mushy.
1. Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Dry Lentils Per Person?
The amount of lentils per person can vary depending on whether the lentils are being served as a side dish or a main course.
As a main dish: You will to need 1/2 to 3/4 cup (90-135 grams) of dried lentils per person.
As a side dish: You will to need 1/4 to 1/3 cup (45-60 grams) of dried lentils per person
Remember that lentils roughly double in volume when cooked, so take this into account when measuring dry lentils.
Should Lentils be Soaked Before Cooking on Stove top?
When it comes to cooking lentils on the stovetop, the need for soaking depends on the type of lentils:
Red and Yellow Lentils: These lentils do not require soaking. They cook relatively quickly, typically in about 15-20 minutes.
Green and Brown Lentils: These lentils benefit from soaking, which can help reduce cooking time and improve digestibility. Soaking for about 2-4 hours is recommended, though they can also be cooked without soaking; just expect a longer cooking time of around 30-40 minutes.
In summary, soak green and brown lentils for best results, while red and yellow lentils can be cooked directly without soaking.
What is the Ratio of Lentils to Water?
The ratio of lentils to water can vary depending on the type of lentils being cooked and the desired consistency.
For red and yellow lentils: The ratio of lentils to water is 1 cup lentils : 2 cups water
For brown lentils & green lentils: The ratio of lentils to water is 1 cup lentils : 2 1⁄2 cups water
2. How To Cook Lentils on Stovetop
Ingredients
- 1 cup any type of lentils
- 2 or 2 1⁄2 cups of water
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp paprika (optional)
- 1 tsp salt
Instructions:
If using green and brown lentils, pour warm water into a large bowl then add lentils and soak for 4 hours, finally rinse and drain. If using red and yellow lentils, place the lentils in a fine-mesh strainer and rinse them under cold water then drain.
Add prepared lentils, water, turmeric powder, paprika, and salt then mix well. If using red and yellow lentils you need use 2 cups of water for 1 cup of lentils, for green and brown lentils, you will need use 2 1⁄2 cups of water for 1 cup of lentils
Close the lid and boil water quickly over high heat. When the water boils, reduce the heat to maintain a very mild boiling and cook about 20 – 25 minutes for green and brown lentils and 15 – 20 minutes for red and yellow lentils.
Check the lentils periodically and stir gently to prevent sticking to the bottom of the pot. If needed, you can add a little more water if the lentils start to dry out.
Once the lentils are cooked to your desired tenderness, remove them from heat and drain any excess liquid.
The cooked lentils are now ready to be used in various dishes or can be enjoyed as a side dish on their own.
3. What to Do With Cooked Lentils?
Toss cooked lentils with fresh vegetables, herbs, and a flavorful dressing to create a hearty and nutritious salad. You can add ingredients like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, feta cheese, and a lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing dish.
Add cooked lentils to your favorite soup or stew recipe to boost its nutritional content and add texture. Lentils work well in hearty vegetable soups, lentil soups, or even as a substitute for meat in chili.
Combine cooked lentils with breadcrumbs, onions, herbs, and spices to form a mixture that can be shaped into patties. Pan-fry or bake the patties for a delicious vegetarian or vegan burger option.
Grain Bowls: Create nutritious grain bowls by combining cooked lentils with cooked grains like quinoa, brown rice, or couscous. Top with roasted vegetables, a protein of your choice, and a drizzle of dressing for a well-balanced meal.
Serve cooked lentils as a simple and healthy side dish. Season them with herbs, spices, or a splash of lemon juice for added flavor.
To have a bowl of perfect lentils, learning how to cook lentils on stovetop properly is essential; I hope after reading this article you can easily make other lentils recipes and have a great dinner. Good luck
