How to Cook Lentils (Ultimate Guide)
- PREP 5min
- COOK 30min
- TOTAL 35min
Lentils are a pantry hero. They are quick and simple to cook and can be used in a variety of ways. The cook time for lentils depends on the variety of lentil you have on hand so check the recipe for an exact cooking time.
You Will Need
1 cup lentils
Water or broth
Salt
Directions
Rinse the lentils with cool water, and then quickly sort through to remove any rogue grains or beans that may have sneaked into the bag from the bulk aisle.
Add the lentils to a medium saucepan and then add enough liquid (water or broth) so that the lentils are covered by two inches.
Season the water with 1/2 teaspoon of fine sea salt (optional).
Bring the water to a boil, and then reduce the heat so that the water is gently bubbling (low simmer).
Cook, uncovered, until the lentils are tender. Check the lentils every once in a while for texture as lentils can transform from tender to mushy quickly (unless you are looking for very soft lentils that can be used in dips and spreads). Suggested cook times: 20 to 30 minutes for brown or green lentils, 25 to 35 minutes for French lentils, 15 to 20 minutes for red lentils and 30 to 45 minutes for black beluga lentils.
Adam and Joanne's Tips
- Tips for cooking lentils in a pressure cooker (like an Instant Pot) or slow cooker are provided in the article.
- Nutrition facts: The nutrition facts provided below are estimates. We have used the USDA database to calculate approximate values.
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