How to Cook Red Lentils in Under 10 Minutes

Discover all you need to know about how to cook red lentils so they come out perfectly each and every time. This healthy ingredient cooks quickly making it perfect for easy weeknight meals.

Looking to add some tasty plant-based dishes to your meals? These little legumes are packed with protein and fiber, super easy to whip up, and have a rich, earthy flavor that works in all kinds of recipes.

Keep reading to learn different ways you can cook red lentils in under 10 minutes and check out some of my favorite recipes like Red Lentil Bolognese or Lentil Curry that’ll have you loving lentils in no time!

Why You Will Love Cooking Red Lentils

• No need for soaking!
• Cook the quickest of all types of dried lentils.
• A healthy source of plant-based protein.
• Naturally vegan and gluten-free.
• A mild flavor that works with many different seasonings.

Main Ingredients

You can cook red lentils with no more than water and salt with a ratio of 3:1, three cups of water for every one cup of lentils.

You can use this ratio to cook your desired about of lentils. I generally allow about ¼ cup of red lentils per person when preparing them as a main course.

• Dry red lentils: Today split red lentils are often easy to find in most grocery stores. Check for them in the same place as dried beans. If yours doesn’t carry them, they are available to order online or check local Middle Eastern markets or health stores.
• Water and salt

3 Different Ways to Cook Red Lentils in Under 10 Minutes

There are 3 easy ways to cook these lentils that will have your dinner ready in under 10 minutes:

1. Stovetop Method (Recommended): I recommend this because you make these lentils a one pot dish by adding any aromatics like onions, garlic and ginger to your recipe. Simply boil over medium-high heat for about 10 minutes and stir until you have the consistency you want.
2. Microwave Method: You can cook split red lentils in the microwave in a sturdy microwave-proof bowl with the same water to lentil ratio (3:1). Cook in increments of 3-5 minutes until the lentils reach the consistency you like. Allow to cool for a few minutes before handling the bowl in the microwave.
3. Pressure Cooker Method: While lentils can be made in the pressure cooker, I reserve the pressure cooker for denser lentils like chickpeas or black lentils. If you are making red lentils in the pressure cooker, cook them for 2-5 minutes. Cooking too much will have your lentils become too mushy.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Stovetop Method (With Pictures)

Step 1: Rinse the red lentils in a colander. Check for any broken or damaged lentils or small stones that could be in them.

Step 2: Transfer the rinsed lentils to a pot and add the water (3:1 ratio).

Step 3: Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, and once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Simmer with the lid tilted until desired tenderness is reached, about 10 minutes or so.

Step 4: Add salt and/or seasoning to the red lentils after cooking. Allow for a few minutes to cool and enjoy!

Cooking Notes: If you want to cook your red lentils with some aromatics such as chopped onion or garlic, I recommend sauteing them in olive oil or another healthy oil before adding the rinsed lentils and water or vegetable broth to the pot.

Expert Tips

• If your lentils end up with excess water, you can let them sit prior to serving and let them absorb the extra water or drain a bit of it off.
• Rinse red lentils prior to cooking and make sure they aren’t any stones.
• It's a good idea to add the salt at the end of cooking as adding it before may lengthen the cooking time.
• Age matters. Older lentils take longer to cook and if they are super old, they may not ever lose a bit of crunch!
• If you don't like mushy lentils and prefer them firmer, reduce the cooking time or try a different lentil such as brown lentils or black lentils which hold their shape and have a firmer texture.

TOP TIP: How long it takes to cook red lentils may vary depending on the age of your lentils, the ingredients you add to the pot, and the final consistency you want. They can cook as quickly as under ten minutes but sometimes may take up to twenty minutes.

Best Ways to Season Your Lentils

The subtle taste of red lentils means they easily absorb the flavors from vegetables, spices, and herbs added to the pot. Here are some of my favorites to use when cooking them.

• Aromatics: Onions, garlic, ginger, bay leaf
• Vegetables: Tomatoes, carrots, chili peppers, bell peppers, celery
• Spices: Cumin, curry powder, turmeric, cinnamon
• Replace water: With vegetable broth, vegetable stock, tomato paste, tomato sauce, and coconut milk
• Miso: White miso is the best match for the quiet flavors of red lentils.
• Fresh herbs: Parsley, cilantro, basil
• Other: Lemon juice, mustard, vinegar

What to Serve with Lentils

The beauty of red lentils is that they can work as a side dish or main course and pair with a variety of different dishes.

• Basmati rice or quinoa
• Naan bread or pita bread
• I love serving up simple vegetable side dishes such as air fryer green beans, roasted spaghetti squash, or air fryer squash.
• Red lentil soups go great with some gluten-free garlic bread or half of your favorite sandwich.

Best Ways to Store Lentils (cooked and uncooked)

• Uncooked lentils: Store all varieties of lentils at room temperature in a cool, dry place. If the bag is open, store them in an airtight container or jar to keep out any unwanted pests.
• Leftovers: After cooking, allow them to cook completely, and then red lentils can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days.
• Reheat: To reheat, return the lentils to a saucepan to heat over medium-low heat. They may thicken while stored and you may need some water or vegetable broth to thin the soup out.

Check out More Lentil Recipes

Now that you know how to cook lentils, check out some of our easy lentil recipes that might suit your fancy!

• Lentil Casserole
• Vegan Lentil Lasagna
• Vegan Bolognese

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