What Can I Cook With Lentils?
20 delicious dish ideas to try with lentils
Got lentils in your kitchen? Here are quick and easy dishes you can make right now - from Indian classics to global favorites. No long recipes, just pure inspiration.
20 Dishes You Can Make With Lentils
What Can I Cook With Lentils And...
🧅🍅With Onion + Tomato:
- →Dal Tadka
- →Dal Fry
- →Lentil Curry
🍚With Rice:
- →Dal Chawal
- →Dal Khichdi
- →Sambar Rice
🍞With Bread / Roti:
- →Dal with Roti
- →Dal Paratha
Common Mistakes When Cooking Lentils
- ✕Don't skip washing lentils - they can have debris
- ✕Soak whole lentils for 2-4 hours for faster cooking
- ✕Add salt at the end - adding early makes lentils tough
- ✕Don't overcook lentils - they become mushy
- ✕Use enough water - lentils absorb a lot while cooking
How to Store Lentils
Dried lentils last indefinitely when stored in an airtight container. Cooked dal lasts 4-5 days in fridge.
Learn more about lentils storageFrequently Asked Questions
What can I cook with only lentils and onion?
You can make Dal Tadka, Dal Fry, Lentil Soup, or simple boiled dal with onion tadka and spices.
Can I eat lentils raw?
No, dried lentils must be cooked. However, sprouted lentils can be eaten raw or lightly cooked in salads.
What is the fastest lentil dish to make?
Red Lentil Dal (Masoor Dal) is the fastest - cooks in 15-20 minutes without soaking. Add tadka for flavor.
Can cooked lentils be frozen?
Yes, cooked lentils and dal can be frozen for up to 6 months. Cool completely before freezing in portions.
What spices go well with lentils?
Cumin, turmeric, coriander, garam masala, red chili, asafoetida, curry leaves, and mustard seeds all enhance lentil flavor.