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How to Cook Lentils on the Stove

Updated: Jan 31, 2025 · Published: Nov 25, 2024 by Allie · This post may contain affiliate links ·

Learn how to cook lentils on the stove with this easy step-by-step guide. 

overhead view of glass bowl containing cooked lentils
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Lentils are high in protein, nutritious, and work well in a wide variety of dishes. This recipe makes it easy to have a batch on hand for adding to soups, salads, and other meals.

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  • Ingredients
  • Instructions
  • Equipment
  • Storage
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Ingredients

  • Water (3 cups)
  • Dried lentils (1 cup): I used green lentils. 

Instructions

uncooked lentils spread out in a colander

Step 1

Spread out the lentils, checking for and removing any small stones. Using a colander, rinse and drain the lentils.

overhead view of medium pot containing uncooked lentils and water

Step 2

Add the lentils and water to a medium pot and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the pot. Cook, covered, for 25 to 30 minutes, or until tender.

cooked lentils draining in a colander

Step 3

Remove the lid. Using a colander, drain the lentils to remove any excess liquid.

Equipment

  • Medium pot with lid
  • Colander
  • Measuring cups

Storage

Store any leftover lentils in the fridge for 4 to 5 days. Cooked lentils may also be frozen for up to 6 months in a sealed container (allow them to cool completely before freezing).

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overhead view of glass bowl containing cooked lentils on a marble background

How to Cook Lentils on the Stove

The Essential Vegan
Learn how to cook lentils on the stove with this easy step-by-step guide. 
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes mins
Cook Time 30 minutes mins
Total Time 35 minutes mins
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 5

Equipment

  • medium pot with lid
  • colander
  • measuring cups

Ingredients
  

  • 3 cups water
  • 1 cup dried lentils

Instructions
 

  • Spread out the lentils (I like to do this in a colander over the sink), checking for and removing any small stones.
  • Using a colander, rinse and drain the lentils.
  • Add the lentils and water to a medium pot and bring to a boil.
  • Reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the pot. Cook, covered, for 25 to 30 minutes, or until tender. 
  • Remove the lid. Using a colander, drain the lentils to remove any excess liquid.

Notes

  • Store any leftover lentils in the fridge for 4 to 5 days. Lentils may also be frozen for up to 6 months in a sealed container (allow them to cool completely before freezing).
  • Recipe yields approximately 2½ cups of cooked lentils.
Keyword cooked lentils, easy lentils, how to cook lentils, how to cook lentils stovetop, lentils

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I’m Allie and I’m so glad you’re here! In this blog, you’ll find quick, healthy, and delicious plant-based recipes that anyone can make. I hope you find something here to brighten your day!

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