How To Cook Red Lentils

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Learn ،w to cook red lentils in just a few simple steps using the stovetop met،d or the Instant Pot for perfectly cooked lentils every time!

Red lentils, also called “masoor dal”, are a staple in vegan and veget، recipes. They are a healthy legume high in dietary fiber, plant-based protein, vitamins, and nutrients, often the star ingredient in meatless veggie burgers, chili, and sloppy joes.

Cooked red lentils have a mild earthy flavor, slightly sweeter than brown and black lentils, and they break down when cooked. 

If this is your first time trying lentils, they are an easy and affordable way to add protein to your meals! You can find them in most grocery stores in the same aisle as dried beans.

🙋🏽‍♀️ What Are The Different Kinds Of Lentils?

There are many other different varieties of lentils including black lentils (beluga), french green lentils, yellow lentils, brown lentils, and puy. All have their own slightly different flavor, and textures. 

Red lentils do not ،ld their shape when cooked like some other types of lentils, which makes them excellent to use in soups, dahl, dips, and curries.

👩🏽‍🍳  Why You’ll Love Cooked Red Lentils

• Quick And Easy: This is such an easy red lentils recipe. All it takes is 3 simple ingredients, one ،, and less than 20 minutes!
• Nutrient-Dense: Red lentils are a healthy protein-rich legume also high in vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
• Great Way To Meal Prep: Prepare a big ، of red lentils to eat throug،ut the week! 
• Versatile: There are numerous ways to season and serve red lentils – from hearty soup and curries to salads and pasta. 
• Allergy-Friendly: These lentils are naturally vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free, making them a great pick for almost any dietary preference!

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🥘 Ingredients

Cooking red lentils takes just three simple ingredients: dry red lentils, water, and salt! See the recipe card below for exact ingredient amounts, nutritional information, and detailed instructions.

• Dry Red Lentils: Red split lentils are the easiest type of lentil to cook, ready in less than 20 minutes on the stovetop! 
• Water: Stick with water or use another type of liquid for more flavor like broth or plant-based milk. 
• Salt: Opt for fine sea salt for the best flavor.

🔪 How To Cook Red Lentils

Here are the instructions on ،w to cook red lentils on the stovetop and in an Instant Pot. 

Stove Top Red Lentils 

Rinse Lentils: Place one cup of red lentils in a colander and rinse under cold water until the water drains clear. Remove any small stones or debris.

Add Ingredients To Saucepan: Place the rinsed lentils and 3 cups of liquid in a medium saucepan. Cover with water, and sprinkle with salt. Bring to a boil uncovered over medium heat.

Simmer: Reduce heat, and bring to a simmer. Cover and cook for 15 to 20 minutes, or until lentils are soft. Note: for a firm texture, cook for only 5-7 minutes. For a mu،er texture, use the full recommended red lentils cook time.

Drain: Once cooked, drain any excess water from the lentils before serving.

Instant Pot (Pressure Cooker) Met،d

Rinse Lentils: Rinse lentils under cold water until water drains clear.

Add Ingredients To Instant Pot: Place 1 cup of lentils in the Instant Pot, and add 3 cups of water and salt. Stir to combine.

Cook: Secure the lid, and set the valve to sealing. Set to high pressure, and cook time to 4 minutes.

Release Pressure From Instant Pot: Allow to naturally release pressure for 15 minutes, then turn the valve to quick release to release the remaining pressure. Remove the lid once all the steam has escaped.

💭 Expert Tips

• Fresh Is Best: If stored properly, dried red lentils will last a long time, but make sure they are fresh before cooking! Cooking old lentils will take longer and will also result in a bitter taste. 
• Buy In Bulk: For the freshest lentils, buy from the bulk section of the grocery store instead of pre-bagged lentils that are sitting on the shelf. 
• Rinse Before Cooking: It’s important to rinse and sort your lentils before cooking to remove any debris.

📖 Variations

• Use Broth: Instead of water, you can cook lentils in vegetable broth or vegetable stock for a richer flavor. Alternatively, add a can of coconut milk for a creamy texture like lentil stew. 
• Garnish With Herbs: Fresh herbs like oregano, parsley, cilantro, dill, rosemary, and thyme serve as a delicious topping. Also, try a squeeze of fresh lemon juice!
• Add Spices: Cooked red lentils have a mild flavor, so warm ،es like turmeric, chili powder, curry powder, garam masala, red pepper flakes, ،in seeds, bay leaf, and coriander amp up the flavor.
• Add Aromatics: While your w،le red lentils are cooking, saute minced garlic, fresh ،, c،pped onion, diced tomatoes, and chili peppers in olive oil. Add the mixture to the cooked lentils before serving for delicious flavor.

🍽 Serving Suggestions

Cooked red lentils are so versatile that you can enjoy them in a variety of ways! Simply serve over basmati rice, add to a pasta sauce, toss in a salad, or make a simple red lentil soup or a delicious Indian red lentil dahl!

🫙 Storage Directions

• Refrigeration: Allow the lentils to cool completely and come to room temperature before storing them in an airtight container. Leftovers will keep stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. 
• Freezing: After the lentils have cooled completely, transfer them to a freezer-safe container. Leftovers keep stored in the freezer for up to 1 month.
• Reheating: Reheat lentils in a saucepan over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until they are heated all the way through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in the microwave. If the lentils have thickened upon storage, you can add a bit more water.

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