How to Cook Perfect Lentils: Easy and Healthy

My first experience cooking lentils was a disaster – a mushy, bland mess that nearly turned me off legumes forever. That changed when my neighbor, an incredible home cook from Lebanon, showed me her foolproof method. She explained that lentils were her family’s go-to protein when money was tight, but they were so delicious no one felt deprived. Now, lentils are a staple in my kitchen too! They’re incredibly easy to prepare, packed with nutrition, and ready in about 30 minutes. Unlike beans, most lentils require no pre-soaking, making them perfect for last-minute meal planning. Best of all, they’re budget-friendly while being rich in protein and fib

Perfectly cooked lentils for dinner

This method produces perfectly tender lentils with just the right texture – never mushy or undercooked. The key is the aromatic vegetable base that infuses the lentils with flavor as they cook. Using stock instead of water adds depth, while the precise cooking time ensures each lentil variety reaches its ideal doneness. The mirepoix (onion, carrot, celery) creates a classic flavor foundation that complements the earthy taste of lentils without overpowering their natural nuttiness.

Understanding Lentil Varieties

Brown Lentils

• Cook time: 15-20 minutes
• Liquid ratio: 3 cups liquid to 1 cup lentils
• Flavor profile: Mild and earthy
• Best uses: All-purpose; holds shape well in soups and stews

Green Lentils

• Cook time: 25-30 minutes (up to 45 minutes total)
• Liquid ratio: 3 cups liquid to 1 cup lentils
• Flavor profile: Peppery and slightly spicy
• Best uses: Salads and side dishes due to firmer texture

Red and Yellow Lentils

• Cook time: 15-20 minutes
• Liquid ratio: 3 cups liquid to 1 cup lentils
• Flavor profile: Sweet and earthy
• Best uses: Purees, dals, and dishes where a softer texture is desired

Black Beluga Lentils

• Cook time: 20 minutes (uncovered)
• Method: Boil in water, then drain and rinse
• Flavor profile: Rich and earthy, most deeply flavored variety
• Best uses: Pairs excellently with fish or chicken

Puy Lentils

• Best uses: Gourmet side dishes, holds shape exceptionally well
• Cook time: 40-45 minutes
• Liquid ratio: 3 cups liquid to 1 cup lentils
• Flavor profile: Rich and peppery, similar to green lentils

The basics of cooking lentils

Most lentils have generally the same type of technique to make them. You will want to rinse the lentils before cooking them. I like to use a cheesecloth to make them easy to wash and I don’t lose any to the drain. You could use a fine mesh sieve if you like, they both work equally well. 

Then, transfer them to the pan either with cool or boiling water (whichever the recipe calls for) then, reduce the heat and let the lentils simmer until they are tender.

Ingredients

For the Flavor Base

• Butter – Creates richness and helps sauté the aromatic vegetables
• Onion – Provides sweet, aromatic foundation flavors
• Carrots – Add natural sweetness and vibrant color
• Celery – Contributes savory notes and subtle texture

For the Lentils

• Dried lentils – The star ingredient, packed with protein and fiber
• Chicken stock – Adds depth and richness compared to cooking in water
• Bay leaves – Impart subtle aromatic flavor during cooking
• Salt – Enhances all flavors in the dish
• Ground black pepper – Adds gentle warmth and complexity

Other flavors you can add to lentils

• Fresh garlic 
• Cumin 
• Thyme
• Coriander
• Rosemary

Ingredient notes

We use chicken stock when cooking lentils. Stock gives it a richer flavor. You can use chicken broth instead.

For vegetarian lentils, use plain water, vegetable stock, or vegetable broth.

How to cook lentils with vegetables

1. Wash lentils, and drain them with a fine mesh strainer.
2. Finely chop onion, carrots, and celery.
3. Melt butter in a medium-sized pot.
4. Add the vegetables to the pot and sauté until lightly browned.

5. Add bay leaves, salt, and pepper.
6. Add chicken stock and lentils.

7. Cook on medium-low heat until the lentils are done, about 20 to 25 minutes.
8. Serve and enjoy!

Popular recipes for lentils

You can use lentils in quite a few recipes. Here are a few lentil recipe suggestions! 

Soups

• Best Lentil Soup Recipe
• Easy Greek Red Lentil Soup

Salads

• Easy Lentil Salad Recipe
• Mediterranean Lentil Salad

Tacos

• Vegan Lentil Tacos
• Tasty Lentil Tacos

These are just a few ideas! Please take one of your favorite recipes and add some lentils and give it a shot. They are a great way to add some healthy protein! 

How to store dried lentils

Storing lentils is no different than any of your other dried pantry goods. You need to make sure they are in an airtight container and stored in a cool dry place. Lentils keep well in a pantry or cupboard.

How to store cooked lentils

To store cooked lentils, place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. 

To reheat them, the microwave will do just fine! Just know, red lentils might become a little mushier as the days go on.

Love beans? Try these recipes!

• Barbecue Baked Beans
• Calico Beans
• Charro Beans
• How to Cook Black Beans
• Instant Pot Refried Beans
• Red Beans and Rice

Favorite beginner recipes and how-to articles

• Cooking Carrots on the Stove
• How to Cook Oatmeal
• How to Freeze Onions
• How to Make Beef Jerky
• How to Make Coleslaw
• How to Make Potato Soup

Check out my easy side dish recipes and the best recipes for beginners here on CopyKat!