These tiny rounded legumes are packed with nutrients that support your health.
You could throw some in soup, but it might be too hot for that.
You could make a salad, but how long does that take?
Jennifer Causey
Could you eat them raw?
Maybe they could be tossed in a smoothie for extra protein?
But is that even safe?
(Hint: It’s not!
Read below to find out why).
What Are Lentils?
Lentils are legumescousins to beans, chickpeas, soybeans and peanuts.
Here are some of the types.
They’re an idealaddition to a salador on their own as a side dish.
ThisLentil Stew with Salsa Verdeis perfect for green lentils.
Although they are quick to prepare, they are more prone to lose their texture after being cooked.
Consider using them in stews, soups or sauces, like thisRed Lentil Soup with Saffron.
Try them inBraised Black Lentil & Quinoa Bowls.
They serve as the foundation for thisRoasted Root Veggies & Greens over Spiced Lentils.
Can You Eat Lentils Raw?
This might result in a variety of reactions, such as bloating, vomiting and diarrhea.
Luckily, lectins are heat-sensitive and break down into more digestible components when they’re cooked.
But lentils typically cook much faster!
Should Lentils Be Soaked?
Many legumes, such as red kidney beans, are typically soaked for hours, sometimes even overnight.
The soaking helps neutralize lectins, which is important for legumes that have high levels.
Because lentils are low enough in lectins, the legume does not need to be soaked for hours.
Try soaking them with lemon juice or vinegar to prevent them from getting too soft.
But if you are in a time crunch, presoaking is not required.
How to Cook Lentils
Start by rinsing your lentils to remove any debris.
Yes, it is as simple as that.
The Bottom Line
Lentils are a nutritious food that’s low-fat and high in protein and fiber.
