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Yellow Lentils

Yellow lentils, also known as moong dal, are a staple ingredient in many cuisines, particularly Indian cooking. These split lentils boast a bright yellow color, mild sweetness, and a soft, creamy texture that melts away during cooking. Let's explore why yellow lentils are essential for comforting, flavor-packed dishes.

What Makes Yellow Lentils Unique

  • Mild and Sweet: Their subtle, slightly sweet flavor makes them versatile for both savory and sweet recipes.
  • Creamy Texture: Yellow lentils, unlike many varieties, break down completely when cooked, creating a luscious, thick texture.
  • Quick Cooking: No lengthy soaking is required with split lentils, making weeknight meals a breeze.
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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Tom the Chef Tom the Chef Founder

Culinary Delights with Yellow Lentils

  • Indian Dals: Yellow lentils are the heart of classic, comforting dals – those richly spiced, gently simmered lentil dishes.
  • Puréed Soups: They add body and creaminess to soups, creating a satisfying and nourishing meal.
  • Smooth and Savory: Yellow lentils are perfect for savory dishes with creamy textures, like lentil curries or spreads.
  • Unexpected Sweets: Their subtle sweetness makes them surprisingly delicious in sweet preparations as well.

Cooking Yellow 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 2 1/2 cups of liquid (you can use water from soaking). Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until tender.
  • Flavor: They are excellent flavor carriers; be bold with your favorite spices!

Yellow lentils offer an incredibly satisfying, creamy base for delicious plant-based dishes. Their versatility and ease of preparation make them a valuable staple to always have on hand

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