How to Cook Tender Lentils

Learn how to cook lentils until they are tender.

A plate of lentils combined with rice and a slowly cooked pork loin provides a hearty meal for a cold night. Lentils are a legume and come in a variety of colors and shapes. They offer a smooth, nut-like flavor and are packed with fiber and protein. Common varieties include red and green lentils, but brown and beluga lentils also can be used interchangeably in recipes. It is important to cook lentils properly for a tender and palatable texture. Does this Spark an idea?

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Measuring cups
Large bowl
Colander
Large pot with lid

Instructions

- 1
  
  Soak dried lentils overnight to hydrate them. For every 1 cup of lentils, add 3 cups of water. Place the lentils in a large bowl. Scoop out and discard any lentils that float or look shriveled and black.
- 2
  
  Drain the lentils out in a colander. Rinse the debris from the lentils with cool water.
- 3
  
  Place the soaked lentils in a large pot. Add 1 1/2 cups of water per cup of lentils in the pot. Place the pot over medium-high heat until the water begins to boil. Add salt and pepper to taste.
- 4
  
  Reduce the heat medium-low, cover the pot with a lid and allow the lentils to simmer until tender. Cook green and brown lentil varieties for 45 to 55 minutes and red or pink lentils for 25 to 35 minutes. Test the tenderness by checking the firmness of the lentils 10 to 15 minutes before the end of the cook time.
- 5
  
  Remove the lentils from heat. Stir several times and allow them to cool slightly before serving.

Tips & Warnings

Check for small stones or other debris as you rinse the lentils.
Cook the lentils longer than their allotted time to make them very soft. Puree the lentils to create a thick stew base.
Do not add any citrus or any acidic ingredients when cooking legumes. They will not allow the lentils to soften. Add tomatoes, lemons, vinegar and other acidic ingredients after the lentils have finished cooking.