Health benefits of lentils:
- Excellent source of fiber which helps control blood sugar levels and helps keep things moving through our digestion system.
- Affordable and low-fat source of protein.
- Good source of essential nutrients like iron for blood health, folic acid for health pregnancy and making new blood cells, and magnesium which helps lower blood pressure!
Purchasing and cooking tips:
Look for lentils near the rice in most grocery stores OR in the bulk section which can save you additional money and packaging. You’ll find red, green, brown, yellow, even black lentil varieties. Red and yellow lentils are great in soups or stews. Green or brown keep their shape better and make great taco filling!
Follow the directions on the package or simply rinse lentils under cold water and then combine 1 cup dry lentils with 3 cups water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat so they’re gently simmering and cook until soft (usually about 20-30 minutes).
Lentil recipe suggestions:
Red Lentil Soup
Lentil Tacos using your favorite taco seasoning
Ethiopian Red Lentils & Greens with Brown Rice