Lentil Recipes & Lentil Soup Recipes

You will love these amazing lentil recipes! Lentils, those tiny legumes packed with protein and fiber, have been a staple in kitchens around the world for centuries. From hearty soups to exotic curries. Lentils add not only nutrition but also a burst of flavor to your meals. Let’s dive into the world of lentil recipes and discover how these versatile legumes can transform your dining experience.

Vegan Lentil Recipes

Lentil Soup Recipes

Types of Lentils

Lentils come in various colors and sizes. Each with its own texture and taste. So it is good to know what to use for each lentil recipe. From earthy green lentils to vibrant red ones. Knowing the differences allows you to choose the right lentil for your culinary creations.

Quick Lentil Comparision Chart

Choose the perfect lentil for your vegan lentil recipe with this quick reference chart.

Lentil Type	Flavor	Texture	Color	Additional Information	Soak Time (Optional)
Brown Lentils	Earthy	Firm	Brown	Most common, ideal for soups and stews. Cook Time: 35-45 minutes.	2 hours (for faster cooking and enhanced digestibility)
Green Lentils	Peppery, Nutty	Firm and Starchy	Green	Retains shape well, suitable for salads. Cook Time: 35-45 minutes.	4 hours (optional, enhances texture and reduces cooking time)
Black Lentils	Strong, Earthy	Firm and Starchy	Black	Unique appearance, holds shape. Cook Time: 20-30 minutes.	2 hours (for even cooking and improved texture)
French Green Lentils	Peppery	Firm and Starchy	Dappled Green	Retains shape excellently. Cook Time: 45-50 minutes.	4 hours (optional, maintains firm texture during cooking)
Red Lentils	Sweet, Nutty	Soft and Creamy	Reddish-Orange	Hulled and split, quick to cook. Cook Time: 10-15 minutes.	30 minutes (optional, quick-cooking, enhances creaminess)
Yellow Lentils	Mild and Neutral	Soft and Creamy	Yellow	Hulled and split, similar to red lentils. Cook Time: 15-20 minutes.	30 minutes (optional, quick-cooking, improves tenderness)
Puy Lentils	Peppery	Firm and Starchy	Deep Green	Retains firmness, ideal for salads. Cook Time: 45-50 minutes.	4 hours (optional, retains firmness and enhances flavor)
Black Beluga Lentils	Strong, Earthy	Firm and Starchy	Black	Resembles Beluga caviar, holds up well. Cook Time: 20-25 minutes.	2 hours (optional, ensures even cooking and texture)

Additional Information for Each Lentil Type:

1. Brown Lentils

• Types: German brown lentils, Indian brown lentils, Spanish brown lentils.
• Cook Time: 35-45 minutes.
• Best For: Hearty soups, stews, veggie burgers.

2. Green Lentils

• Types: Eston lentils (small), Richlea lentils (medium), Laird lentils (large).
• Cook Time: 35-45 minutes.
• Best For: Salads, pilafs, side dishes.

3. Black Lentils (Beluga)

• Cook Time: 20-30 minutes.
• Best For: Salads, grain bowls, dishes needing extra texture.

4. French Green Lentils

• Types: Puy lentils, Berry lentils, Champagne lentils.
• Cook Time: 45-50 minutes.
• Best For: Salads, side dishes, lentil-based salads.

5. Red Lentils

• Types: Egyptian lentils, Red Chief lentils.
• Cook Time: 10-15 minutes.
• Best For: Soups, curries, dals.

6. Yellow Lentils

• Types: Golden lentils.
• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes.
• Best For: Soups, stews, curries.

7. Puy Lentils

• Origin: Grown only in the South of France.
• Cook Time: 45-50 minutes.
• Best For: Salads, side dishes, lentil-based salads.

8. Black Beluga Lentils

• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes.
• Best For: Salads, grain bowls, gourmet dishes.

Feel free to use this comprehensive chart as a quick reference guide for selecting the perfect lentil for your vegan lentil recipes!

Cooking Tips and Tricks

Cooking lentils may seem simple, but mastering the art ensures a delicious outcome. Rinse lentils thoroughly. Use the right ratio of water to lentils, and consider pre-soaking for optimal results.

Cooking lentils is a straightforward process, but a few key tips can make all the difference in flavor and texture. Ensure a delightful outcome by following these quick tips:

1. Thorough Rinsing: Before cooking, always give your lentils a good rinse. This step removes impurities and guarantees a clean, tasty result.
2. Water-to-Lentil Ratio: Get the ratio right! For perfect lentils, use an ample amount of water. A general rule is to fill a large pot halfway, ensuring your lentils have enough space to cook evenly.
3. Consider Pre-Soaking: For optimal results, consider pre-soaking your lentils. This simple step can enhance their texture and reduce cooking time.

With these easy tips, you’ll master the art of cooking lentils and enjoy delicious outcomes every time.

Watch My Video On How To Cook Lentils For Beginners Below:

Sustainability of Lentils

Choosing lentils isn’t just good for your health; it’s also an eco-friendly choice. Explore the environmental benefits of incorporating lentils into your diet and contribute to a sustainable future.

FAQs About Lentils