5 creative ways to cook with lentils
What's the story
Rich in protein, fiber, and other essential nutrients, lentils are the perfect ingredient for a balanced diet.
They are so versatile when it comes to cooking, it is almost impossible to go wrong with them.
These five creative ways to use lentils will take your cooking skills a notch higher, whether you're an experienced chef or a novice in the kitchen.
Stuffed peppers
Lentil stuffed bell peppers
Lentil stuffed bell peppers are a delightful twist on traditional stuffed vegetables.
Just cook lentils until tender and mix them with sauteed onions, garlic, tomatoes, and spices of your choice.
Hollow out bell peppers and fill them with the lentil mixture and bake until the peppers are soft.
This dish is not just colorful but also packed with flavor and nutrients.
Veggie burgers
Lentil veggie burgers
Transform lentils into delicious veggie burgers.
Mash cooked lentils and combine with breadcrumbs, chopped vegetables like carrots or zucchini, and seasonings like cumin or paprika.
Form patties from the mixture and pan-fry until golden brown on both sides.
These burgers make for a satisfying meal when served on whole-grain buns with your favorite toppings.
Lentil soup
Spicy lentil soup
A spicy lentil soup is just what you need to warm up on chilly days.
Start by sauteing onions, garlic, ginger, and chili in olive oil before adding vegetable broth and red lentils.
Allow it to simmer until the lentils break down into a creamy consistency.
Add spices like turmeric or coriander for extra depth of flavor.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.
Salad bowl
Lentil salad bowl
Make a refreshing salad bowl with cooked green or brown lentils as the base ingredient.
Mix diced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, red onion slices, and herbs such as parsley or mint leaves tossed together in lemon juice dressing seasoned lightly with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil over the top.
Relish this wholesome meal option any time of day or night!
Pancakes
Savory lentil pancakes
Savory pancakes made from ground-up, soaked split yellow moong dal mixed into a smooth batter seasoned with cumin seeds, finely chopped green chilies, coriander leaves, and salt.
Add water to get a consistency similar to regular pancake batter.
Pour a ladleful onto a hot, non-stick skillet and cook both sides till golden.
Serve with chutney or yogurt dip to relish these unique breakfast treats!