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How to Cook Lentils: Ratios & Times for Every Type
- by S R
Quick Guide
How to Cook Lentils: Ratios & Times for Every Type
No soaking, no fuss, just the right ratio and time for each type. Unlike most dried beans, lentils are small enough to cook straight from the packet, no overnight soak required. Pick yours below.
Organic Red Split Lentils
No soaking needed. Simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally, they'll break down into a soft, creamy texture, perfect for dal, soup, or thickening a curry. Because they cook fastest of the three, they're the one to reach for on a weeknight.
Organic Green Lentils
No soaking needed. Simmer covered until just tender, they hold their shape well, so they're the best choice for salads and side dishes, or anywhere you want a distinct, separate grain rather than a purée.
Organic Brown Lentils
No soaking needed. Simmer covered, they mostly hold their shape with a slightly softer bite than green, great in stews, soups and hummus-style purées, and the most versatile all-rounder of the three.
Organic Yellow Split Peas
Not technically a lentil, but cooked the same way and often kept in the same jar. No soaking needed, though they take longer than any lentil and break down into a thick, mildly sweet purée, ideal for a hearty soup.
Quick Reference
| Type | Water Ratio | Time | Texture |
|---|---|---|---|
| Red Split | 1 : 2 | 15–20 min | Soft, breaks down |
| Green | 1 : 2 | 25–30 min | Firm, holds shape |
| Brown | 1 : 2 | 20–25 min | Holds shape, softer |
| Yellow Split Peas | 1 : 3 | 30–45 min | Breaks down, thick |
Why Dried Lentils Are Worth Keeping Stocked
Dried lentils keep for well over a year in a sealed container, cost far less per serving than most other proteins, and give you full control over texture since you're cooking them from scratch. A well-stocked jar of each type covers most weeknight meals without any planning ahead.
Quick Questions
Do lentils need to be soaked?
No, unlike most beans, lentils cook fine without soaking. A rinse to remove dust and any small stones is all they need beforehand.
Why are my lentils still hard after cooking?
Usually salt added too early, or lentils that are simply old and dried out further than usual. Try a fresh batch, and salt only once they're already tender.
How long do dried lentils keep in the cupboard?
Well over a year if kept in an airtight container away from heat and light. They won't go off, but older lentils do take longer to cook and can turn out slightly less creamy.
Similar ratios, different times, and one rule that applies across the board: salt last, not first. Whichever one ends up in your pot, that alone will make the biggest difference to how they turn out. Explore the full range of organic lentils at Maven Wholefoods.
