How to Cook Lentils on the Stovetop

How to easily cook delicious, brown lentils in a pan on the stove.

Prep Time5

Cook Time35

Servings: cups

Author: All recipes on jenniferskitchen.com are property of jennifer's kitchen and cannot be republished without written permission.

Ingredients

1 1/4 cups uncooked lentils
5 cups water or broth

Instructions

Spread lentils out on a clean countertop and sort through lentils to remove any stones or other debris.
Transfer lentils to a colander or mesh strainer and rinse under running water. Drain.
Place rinsed lentils and water in large sauce pan.
Cover and bring to boil over high heat.
Reduce heat and cook at a very low boil for 35 minutes or until very soft.
(Most lentil recipes tell you to simmer for about 20 minutes, but lentils that are cooked longer are more easily digested and more nourishing.)

Notes

1. Some recipes say that lentils may be cooked in less time, but longer cooking time makes lentils easier to digest and makes the nutrients in the lentils (like calcium, iron, and zinc) more available to the body.

Al dente lentils may look more attractive in a salad, but they aren’t so great for the stomach.

2. Add more water if you like your lentils to be soupy.