French green lentils, also known as Puy lentils, are a type of legume that is widely used in French cuisine. These lentils are known for their distinctive peppery flavor and firm texture, making them a versatile ingredient in a range of dishes.
Cooking French green lentils may seem daunting, especially if you are not familiar with their preparation. However, with a few simple tips and techniques, you can easily master the art of cooking these lentils.
We will go through every aspect of cooking French green lentils in this article. We’ll start with the fundamentals, including choosing the proper lentils and getting them ready for the stove. We will also cover different cooking methods, including stovetop and pressure cooking, and provide tips for achieving perfectly cooked lentils every time.
Whether you are an experienced cook or a beginner, this article will equip you with the knowledge and skills you need to cook delicious and nutritious French green lentils.
How To Cook French Green Lentils
Ingredients
To make this recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup French green lentils
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 sprig of thyme
| Also read: How To Prepare Kabocha Squash |
Instructions To Follow
- Rinse the lentils thoroughly under cold water and remove any debris or stones.
- In a medium-sized pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- After the onion is transparent, add the chopped onion and minced garlic and sauté for an additional two to three minutes.
- Stir the lentils with the onion and garlic in the saucepan after adding them.
- Pour in the water or vegetable broth and add the bay leaf and thyme sprig.
- After bringing the mixture to a boil, turn down the heat and cover the saucepan.
- Simmer the lentils for 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender but not mushy.
- Reduce the heat and cover the pan once the mixture has reached a boil.
- Add salt and black pepper to taste.
Serving Suggestions
There are many ways to enjoy French green lentils. They are delicious on their own as a side dish or mixed with other ingredients to create a hearty salad. Here are a few serving suggestions:
- Serve the lentils warm as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish.
- Mix the lentils with diced tomatoes, cucumbers, and feta cheese for a fresh and flavorful salad.
- Top the lentils with a poached egg and avocado slices for a protein-packed breakfast.
Do French Green Lentils Need To Be Soaked?
Are you kidding me? Soaking French green lentils before cooking them? That’s ridiculous! These lentils are known for their quick cooking time and don’t require soaking like other legumes such as chickpeas or kidney beans. Soaking them will only make them mushy and ruin their texture.
Not only is soaking unnecessary, but it can also lead to nutrient loss. Lentils are a rich source of fiber, protein, and various vitamins and minerals. When you soak them, you leach out some of these essential nutrients, which defeats the purpose of eating them in the first place.
So, if you want to cook perfect French green lentils, skip the soaking step and instead rinse them thoroughly and pick out any debris or stones. Trust me; your lentils will turn out deliciously firm and flavorful without any unnecessary steps.
Conclusion
Cooking French green lentils is a simple and easy way to add a nutritious ingredient to your meals. This recipe can be easily customized to your taste preferences by adding different herbs and spices. Whether you serve them as a side dish or incorporate them into a salad or breakfast bowl, French green lentils are a delicious and versatile ingredient to have in your pantry.
FAQ
Can I cook French green lentils in a pressure cooker?
Yes, pressure cooking is an excellent method for cooking French green lentils. It can reduce cooking time and help to retain their shape and texture.
How long do French green lentils take to cook?
On average, French green lentils take between 20 to 30 minutes to cook. However, this can vary depending on the cooking method and the age of the lentils.
How should I store leftover cooked French green lentils?
Leftover cooked lentils can be kept in the refrigerator for up to four days in an airtight container. You can also freeze them for up to three months, but be aware that their texture may change slightly after thawing.