What are Lentils?
Lentils are small legumes that belong to the pulse family. They come in a variety of colours, all of which have different textures, flavours and uses in different cuisines and meals. Some different types of lentils include:
- Green Lentils: These have a firm texture and a slightly peppery flavour. They hold their shape well during cooking and are often used in salads, side dishes, and lentil soup recipes.
- Brown Lentils: Brown lentils are the most widely available and are commonly used in a variety of dishes. They have a mild flavour and a tender texture when cooked. They are suitable for soups, stews, and casseroles.
- Red Lentils: These lentils cook faster than green or brown lentils and have a softer texture. They are often used in Indian and Middle Eastern cuisines for dishes like lentil dahl recipes, Middle-Eastern meals and Asian dishes.
- Yellow Lentils: Similar to red lentils, yellow lentils are commonly used in Indian cooking. They have a mild flavour and a soft texture when cooked.
- Black Lentils (Beluga Lentils): These lentils have a glossy black appearance and a rich, earthy flavour. They hold their shape well during cooking and are often used in salads or as a side dish.
Lentils can be the base of so many delicious dishes, like our delicious and hearty Mexican spiced lentil shepherd's pie and our Moroccan spiced lentil stew.
