How to Cook Red Lentils

There are many different varieties of lentils including green, brown, black, yellow, and red. Each type of lentil has a slightly different flavor profile and when cooked a different consistency. In this post, I explain how to cook red lentils so that they turn out perfect every single time. As well as provide some recipes that include red lentils.

What are red lentils?

Red lentils are small orange legumes that are high in fiber and protein, making them an excellent addition to heart-healthy meals. They also cook quickly which makes them a great option when you need to get dinner on the table quickly. With a mild flavor that is slightly sweet, they differ from green and black lentils which have a more robust earthy flavor.

Red lentils are delicious in soups and curries because of their creamy texture. They are not a good choice for recipes that require the lentils to hold their shape, like in this lentil taco meat recipe or veggie burgers. When cooked, red lentils break down and become mushy, which is why they are better suited for curries, soups, and sauces.

They are sometimes referred to as masoor dal or red split lentils. Whatever you choose to call them, they are the same thing, an inexpensive and healthy plant-based protein source that you should definitely consider adding to your diet.

Red Lentil Nutrition Facts

The following nutrition facts are based on one serving or one cup of cooked red lentils.

Calories	320 kcal
Carbohydrates	40 grams
Protein	18 grams
Fat	0.8 grams
Fiber	15.6 grams
Thiamine	28% DV
Vitamin B6	21 % DV
Folate	90% DV
Iron	37% DV
Zinc	23% DV
Manganese	43% DV
Magnesium	17% DV

As you can see lentils are an excellent source of B vitamins and minerals. The high fiber content of lentils helps with a healthy gut. They also help you feel fuller longer, decreasing your chance of snacking on low-nutritional food choices. They are a source of plant compounds known as phytochemicals that protect the body against heart disease and type 2 diabetes.

How Do Red Lentils Differ From Other Types of Lentils and Split Peas?

There are many different types of lentils available. They look similar with the exception of their color, but they differ slightly in flavor and usability in recipes.

Yellow Lentils: As the name suggests yellow lentils are yellow in color. They have a similar flavor profile, and also cook quickly, and have a soft and creamy texture like red lentils. The main difference between red and yellow lentils is their color. You can use both red and yellow lentils in the same types of recipes. If you don’t have red lentils for a recipe, but you have yellow they can be used as a simple substitute.

Split Peas: Lentils and split peas are not the same things. While split peas are also legumes, they are a different type. They look similar to one another. Split peas also come in different colors such as green and yellow. They taste quite similar to lentils with an earthy flavor. The main difference is that split peas need a longer cooking time, at least an additional 10 minutes more than lentils. While green peas and yellow peas come from the same legume family, yellow split peas must be dried first before eating, while green split peas can be eaten fresh or dried.

Green Lentils: This lentil variety has a tougher outer skin than red lentils. This means it takes them longer to cook. They also hold their shape when cooked which makes them a good choice as a substitute for meat in recipes such as veggie burgers or taco meat. They also have a more robust earthy flavor.

Brown Lentils: While many people think that brown and green lentils are the same, they are actually different. The flavor, cook time, and texture are the same. They can be used interchangeably, the only difference is their color.

Beluga/Black Lentils: Beluga lentils and black lentils are the same. When cooked they resemble caviar. They differ from red, yellow, green, and brown lentils in that they hold their shape the best. When cooked they have an al dente texture.

Ingredients and Notes

Red Lentils: You will need 1 cup of dry lentils for this recipe.

Water: Refer to the water-to-lentil ratio below. The amount of water varies depending on the method of cooking you choose.

Salt: Don’t add the salt until after the lentils have cooked. Adding it too early will require additional cooking time.

How to Cook Red Lentils

The process of cooking red lentils is quite simple. The main thing to consider is the water-to-lentil ratio. You need to have enough water to properly cook the lentils. The water-to-lentil ratio differs slightly if you choose to use an Instant Pot compared to the traditional stovetop method.

If necessary use your hands to split the red lentils in half. Split red lentils are the variety sold in grocery stores, so you likely will not need to take this step.

Decide if you’d like to use the stovetop to prepare your lentils or the Instant Pot. The time it takes to cook lentils is quite short, so you don’t save a ton of time using the Instant Pot, however, I will provide you with both directions so you have the option to use either.

Lentil-to-Water Ratio For Cooking Red Lentils

• Instant Pot 1:2 ratio (1 cup of red lentils to 2 cups of water).
• Stovetop 1:3 ratio (1 cup of red lentils to 3 cups of water.)

Instructions for Stovetop Method

Step 1: Remove any stones or debris from the lentils. Rinse 1 cup of lentils under running water.

Step 2: Add three cups of water, and 1 cup of rinsed lentils to a medium saucepan over medium heat.

Step 3: Bring the lentils and water to a boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 8-12 minutes depending on the consistency you desire. While cooking, most of the water will be absorbed by the lentils. If any water remains, use a colander to drain the lentils. Return the lentils to the saucepan and add salt. Stir to combine. At this time you can add any additional flavorings you desire.

Stovetop Cooking Time-Based on Desired Consistency

• 5 minutes for firm
• 8 minutes for soft
• 10 minutes for tender
• 12 minutes for mushy

Instructions for Instant Pot/Pressure Cooker

Step 1: Remove any stones or debris from the lentils, and rinse under running water.

Step 2: In your Instant Pot add 1 cup of lentils, and 2 cups of water. Stir to combine. Secure the lid, and turn the release valve to seal.

Step 3: Set the Instant Pot to High Pressure, and the time to 5 minutes. See notes below on different cook times based on your desired consistency.

Step 4: Once the timer turns off, allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes, then move the valve to “vent” to release the remaining pressure.

Instant Pot Cooking Time Based on Consistency

Cooking the red lentils in the Instant Pot doesn’t give you as much control over the consistency as using the stovetop method. Setting the time to 5 minutes will result in a soft and creamy texture. If you want a firmer texture, reduce the time to 2-3 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Cooking Tips

• Acidic foods such as salt and tomatoes can slow down the cooking time. Add flavoring such as salt and tomatoes after the lentils have cooked. Or if you choose to add salt during the cooking process know that you will likely need to increase the cooking time.
• For more flavor to your lentils, cook them in vegetable broth instead of water. Your vegetable broth may have salt, so cooking time may increase.
• Serving Suggestions: Add cooked red lentils to your favorite dish. Some of my favorites include salads, hearty vegan ragu, red lentil soup, and vegan curry with coconut milk on top of basmati rice.

How to Store

Allow the leftovers to cool completely. Transfer them to an airtight container. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also transfer them to a freezer-safe container and freeze them for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, defrost in the refrigerator overnight.

Red Lentil Recipes

Recipe