Lentils are a versatile and nutritious pantry staple that can be easily cooked on the stove without the need for soaking. Today, we’ll walk you through the process of cooking cooking French lentils and how long to cook lentils on stove, also known as green lentils, which are small, dark, and hold their shape well.
This method is quick and simple and ensures that your lentils maintain their delicious flavor and unique texture.
Highlights:
- Unlike many dried pulses, French lentils (green lentils) don’t need soaking, making them a quick and convenient addition to your meals.
- With just a handful of ingredients—lentils, water, salt, and garlic—you can create a flavorful and nutritious dish with minimal effort.
- In just 40 minutes on the stove, these lentils absorb water, swell up, and become tender, providing a delicious base for various recipes.
- Use the leftover flavorful liquid in soups or stews, and incorporate the cooked lentils into salads, side dishes, or main courses to boost protein and fiber.
- Skip the canned lentils and enjoy a cost-effective, homemade alternative that’s easy to prepare and far more delicious and satisfying.
More Recipes Resources:
How to Cook Lentils on Stove?
To cook lentils on the stove, rinse 1 cup of French lentils, place them in a saucepan with 4 cups of water, add 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 2 crushed garlic cloves. Bring to a boil, partially cover, simmer for 40 minutes, and enjoy perfectly cooked lentils with a flavorful broth.
How Long to Cook Lentils on Stove?
Simmer 1 cup of rinsed French lentils in 4 cups of water with salt and crushed garlic for 40 minutes on the stove for perfectly cooked lentils.
Cook Lentils on Stove Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup of French lentils (green lentils)
- 4 cups of water
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 2 garlic cloves, lightly crushed
Equipment Used
- Saucepan
- Stirring utensil
- Lid for partial covering during simmering
- Measuring cup and spoons
- Cutting board and knife (for crushing garlic)
Instructions
I'm excited to share this recipe with you step by step, so let's dive in!
Step 1: Rinse and Pick Lentils
Start by rinsing the lentils under cold water and picking out any debris or impurities. The lentils do not require soaking, making them a convenient choice for a last-minute meal.
Step 2: Prepare the Saucepan
In a saucepan, combine 4 cups of water. Add the rinsed lentils to the water, followed by half a teaspoon of salt. For an extra burst of flavor, include two lightly crushed garlic cloves. Inspired by French cuisine, this subtle addition will infuse the lentils with a delightful taste.
Step 3: Bring to a Boil
Place the saucepan on high heat to bring the water to a boil. Stir the lentils gently to ensure they are evenly distributed in the water. Once boiling, partially cover the saucepan with a lid, leaving a small gap for steam to escape.
Step 4: Simmer
Reduce the heat to maintain a gentle simmer. Allow the lentils to cook for approximately 40 minutes. The lentils will absorb the water, swell up, and become soft during this time. The result is a pot of perfectly cooked lentils with a rich and flavorful broth.
Step 5: Check for Doneness
After 40 minutes, check the lentils for doneness. They should be tender yet still hold their shape. The broth will have a delicious flavor, making it a great addition to various dishes.
Step 6: Serve or Store
Your cooked lentils are now ready to be enjoyed. You can serve them as a side dish, add them to salads, or incorporate them into your favorite recipes. If there's any remaining liquid, consider saving it for soups or stews—it's a tasty and nutritious addition.
Conclusion
Cooking lentils on the stove is a simple and rewarding process. With minimal preparation and patience, you can enjoy delicious, perfectly cooked lentils that are far superior to their canned counterparts.
Experiment with incorporating these flavorful lentils into your meals, and savor the convenience of having a nutritious staple readily available in your pantry.
Hello! I’m Paula Deen, a mother who loves to create memories in the kitchen. As a kitchen enthusiast, I love to do experiment with different kitchenware for daily recipes. This is my blog, where I’ll share my experience, knowledge, and reviews on various kitchenware and appliances.