How to cook green lentils

Name: How to cook green lentils
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: En
Ingredients: 1 onion; 2 garlic cloves; olive oil; ½ tbsp. cumin; 35 fl ozwater; 5.5 oz green lentils; Salt; Pepper; 2 bay leaves

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Side dish

Very Easy

45 min

101 Kcal

Here's a super-simple and tasty way to prepare green lentils without a pressure cooker. Easy and very healthy, this legume has many advantages, as it is rich in nutrients. It's also very versatile, as you can add vegetables, meat, and it's also gluten-free and rich in vegetable protein for those who need it. Follow our step-by-step recipe below and enjoy!

Ingredients

1 onion
2 garlic cloves
olive oil
½ tbsp. cumin
35 fl ozwater
5.5 oz green lentils
Salt
Pepper
2 bay leaves

Materials

Saucepan with lid

Preparation

Preparation5 min

Cook time40 min

In a saucepan, sauté the onion and garlic in olive oil.
As soon as they become translucent, add the cumin and leave to brown for a few minutes.
Add water, then lentils and season with salt and pepper. Cook over medium heat for 5 minutes or until boiling.
As soon as the water boils, lower the heat and cover by half with the lid. Cook for around 40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and the stock is incorporated. Don't forget to stir regularly during cooking.
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. All set!

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FAQ ❓

Do I need to soak green lentils before cooking?

You don't need to soak green, blond or red lentils before cooking. They cook quickly and easily without soaking.

How much water is needed to cook green lentils?

To cook green lentils, use around 3 times the volume of water for 1 volume of lentils. Example: for 1 cup of lentils, add 3 cups of water. This proportion ensures gentle cooking without drying out. You can also use vegetable stock for extra flavor.

How many lentils per person?

You should allow around 2 to 3 oz of dried lentils per person, or around 5 to 6 oz once cooked. This is a generous portion for a main course, especially if you add vegetables or protein (bacon, sausage, tofu, etc.).

Can lentils be cooked in a pressure cooker?

Yes, lentils can be cooked quickly in a pressure cooker: once the pressure is reached, leave to cook for between 5 and 10 minutes, depending on the variety. It's perfect for saving time and ensuring even cooking.

Can lentils be combined with bacon or sausages?

Of course you can! Lentils with lardons and carrots or lentils with sausage are great classics. Brown your lardons, sausages or smoked bacon in a casserole dish with onion before adding the lentils and water. The result is a comforting, flavorful dish.

What vegetables should I add to a lentil dish?

You can enrich your lentils with carrots, tomatoes, onions, potatoes, leeks or spinach. These vegetables go perfectly with green lentils to create a complete, balanced, high-fiber dish.

How long can I keep cooked lentils?

Cooked lentils can be stored up to 5 days in an airtight tin in the fridge. You can also freeze them in small portions for up to 3 months. Ideal for making ahead!

What are the benefits of lentils?

Lentils are rich in vegetable protein, iron, magnesium and fiber. They are highly appreciated in vegetarian and vegan diets, and contain around 93 kcal per 3.5 oz/100 g cooked. They are satiating, low in calories and excellent for digestive health.

How do I cook lentils in a pressure cooker?

To cook lentils in a pressure cooker, pour the rinsed lentils into the pot, add 3 times their volume of cold water, a clove of garlic, a bay leaf and a drizzle of olive oil. Close the pot, bring to pressure and cook for 5 to 10 minutes over low heat. This is a quick method for evenly cooking legumes.

How long does it take to cook blond lentils?

Blonde lentils, which are larger than green lentils, require 30 to 40 minutes in the saucepan. Ideal for simmered dishes, they hold up well even after prolonged cooking. Don't forget to add a bouquet garni or cloves for flavor.

Should I start cooking lentils in cold water?

Yes, always start cooking lentils in cold water, for gradual cooking and a more even texture. Add herbs such as a bay leaf, garlic clove or bouquet garni at the start of cooking to infuse the flavors right from the start.

Can lentils be cooked with tomato paste?

Yes, tomato paste is a common addition to simmered lentil recipes. It adds a touch of acidity and enhances the taste. Add it during cooking, after sautéing your vegetables and herbs such as garlic, onion or bay leaf.

Do lentils retain their vitamins when cooked?

Lentils are rich in B vitamins, but contain very little vitamin C. To preserve as many nutrients as possible, cook lentils gently over medium heat, and avoid overcooking. You can also complement your lentil dishes with a squeeze of lemon or a raw vegetable rich in vitamin C to balance the meal.

Are lentils a good source of protein?

Yes, lentils are legumes rich in vegetable protein, fiber, iron and minerals. They are an excellent alternative to meat in a vegetarian or flexitarian diet. Low in calories and very filling, they are ideal for a nutritious, balanced meal.