While making them is pretty straightforward, there are a few mistakes that can be made along the way that may leave you with a pot of lentils that you’re less than satisfied with. 90% Of the time I am cooking them in a soup or in a curry and do not drain them. once they open up, they are done. Check them frequently, and add water if needed. Place the lentils and water in a pot together and bring to a high simmer, then simmer. If you intended to soak and then forgot, try a 1-hour quick-soak. Be sure to season with salt after cooking – if salt is added before, the lentils will become tough. If you’re not already cooking lentils all the time, you should be — they’re quick, easy, wholesome, and affordable. Step 4: Drain and Rinse. After the lentils boil, allow them to simmer for 20-30 minutes. You can drain all of the water or , as I do, keep about a cup to add back some flavor if you are making a soup. More liquid equals more sticking together (a pain) and a longer thawing time. It should be tender enough to eat. They're also packed with folate, iron, phosphorus, potassium and fiber. I suppose the only reason to further rinse beans after cooking is to get rid of even more. After cooking , drain any excess cooking liquid and use as desired. Place lentils in a medium-sized pot. Add 3 cups of water and bring the cooking liquid to a boil, and then reduce the heat to a very gentle simmer.Keep an eye on the liquid level and add a little bit more as needed, making sure to keep the lentils completely submerged. Let the pressure release. Reduce heat and simmer, uncovered. If you don't soak or don't soak for very long that stuff goes in the cooking water instead. I typically use green lentils as they hold their shape very well after cooking, but I have recently found the red lentil to be simply delightful in soups. Once cooked, drain your lentils completely. Cook about 20 minutes for red lentils, 30 minutes for brown and 40 minutes for green. Drain them as much as possible before putting them in the container. I've actually never heard of the concept of post-rinsing lentils. Can I make lentils … Unlike other legumes, lentils cook quickly without presoaking. Do you drain lentils after cooking? Do you have to boil the water first? When it comes to lentils, there isn't much need to measure the water, just be sure there is enough. No! How long do you cook brown and green lentils? If you prefer soaking lentils first, cook them for 10 to 15 minutes. Lentils, split peas and blackeye peas don’t need to be soaked. There are 3 types of lentils: green, brown, and red. If you sometimes have trouble digesting beans like I do, even when properly soaked and cooked, lentils are a wonderful alternative. Always rinse before bc of gross bits. You can then discard or keep that for the same reason. To store cooked lentils , place in a covered storage container and keep refrigerated for up to 3 days. 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