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Green Lentils

Move over, brown lentils! Green lentils are here to add a vibrant touch and a satisfying bite to your culinary creations. These lentils come in a range of beautiful shades from pale green to a mottled brown and green. Don't let their mild exterior fool you – they pack a slight peppery kick and boast an incredible ability to hold their shape, even after extended cooking.

Why Choose Green Lentils

  • Texture Champions: Green lentils are the kings and queens of lentil texture. They won’t disintegrate into mush, offering a pleasing bite that makes them a dream for salads and sides.
  • Peppery Flavor: A subtly peppery undertone sets them apart, adding a layer of complexity to dishes.
  • Visual Appeal: Their varied green hues add a stunning visual element to salads and veggie bowls.
Food & Ingredients

Types of Lentils

April 30, 2025

Welcome, culinary adventurers, to a journey into the heart of one of the world’s oldest and most versatile ingredients! We’re talking about lentils – those small, lens-shaped legumes that have nourished civilizations for millennia. Often residing quietly in our pantries, the diverse types of lentils available offer a surprising spectrum of colours, textures, and cooking properties. From hearty stews to delicate salads, understanding the nuances between different types of lentils is key to unlocking their full culinary potential. Join us as we delve into the fascinating world of these nutritional powerhouses, celebrating the variety and adaptability that make exploring types of lentils an essential part of any kitchen exploration. They are more than just a simple pulse; they are a global staple brimming with history and flavour, waiting to be rediscovered.

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Where Green Lentils Shine

  • Salads: Their robust texture makes them stand up beautifully amidst greens, roasted veggies, and flavorful dressings.
  • Pilafs & Grain Bowls: Green lentils add protein, texture, and a hint of peppery flavor that complements grains and vegetables.
  • Warm Dishes: While delicious in salads, they’re equally tasty in warm lentil dishes where some firmness is desired.
  • Side Dishes: A green lentil side adds color, protein, and interesting texture to complement proteins.

Cooking Green Lentils

Brown lentils are incredibly easy to prepare:

  • Soak: To ensure that lentils are not hard after cooking, make sure to soak them for at least 4 hours, but preferably 8 hours or overnight. Some types of lentils may not require soaking, but most of them benefit from it. For soaking, always use about 3 – 4 cups of water for each cup of dry lentils.
  • Cook: Generally, use a ratio of about 1 cup dry lentils to about 3 cups of liquid (you can use water from soaking). Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 20-30 minutes, or until tender.
  • Flavor: Optionally, you can quickly sauté onions, garlic, or your favorite aromatics and add them to the lentils while they’re cooking.

Green lentils are a fantastic pantry staple for anyone who loves a hearty bite of lentil goodness. Whether you serve them warm or cold, they’ll bring delightful texture and flavor to your meals.

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