HOW TO COOK RED LENTILS

Learn how to cook red lentils perfectly every time on the stove or in the instant pot. Aslo called masoor dal, lentils are an easy to cook and versatile legume, full of gut healthy fiber, protein, vitamins and minerals.

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Prep Time:  5 min

– 1 cup red lentils (rinsed) – 3 cups vegetable broth (if cooking on the stove) – 2½ cups vegetable broth (if cooking in an instant pot) – ½ onion (diced) – 1 teaspoon oil – salt (to taste)

Ingredients

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1

– Rinse the red lentils in a strainer and take out any pebbles or debris. Dice the onion. 

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Rinse

2

Heat up the oil on medium heat in a large sauce pan or in your instant pot.  Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion and sauté until golden brown.

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Sauté

3

Add the rinsed lentils to the pot and add vegetable broth or water. Add ¼ teaspoon of salt if not using vegetable broth. Add in any seasonings of choice.

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Season

4

– Cover and bring to a low simmer. Simmer for 8 minutes for firmer lentils and 10-15 minutes for mushier lentils.

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Cook - stovetop

5

– Cover and seal the lid. Cook on high pressure for 2 minutes for firmer lentils and 4 minutes for creamier lentils. Quick release when done

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Cook - instant pot

RECIPE TIPS

Buy lentils in bulk if you can find them sold like that. It’s a bit cheaper. - Lentils are the best price at an Indian grocery store. 

RECIPE TIPS

– Red lentils taste amazing topped with some lemon juice and fresh herbs like fresh cilantro. Add them after cooking. They add a perfect balance to the earthy flavor of lentils.