How To Cook Red Lentils

5 from 11 votes

Learn how to cook red lentils in just a few simple steps using the stovetop method or the Instant Pot for perfectly cooked lentils every time!

Prep Time2

Cook Time15

Total Time17

Course: Side Dish

Cuisine: American, Indian

Diet: Gluten Free, Low Calorie, Vegan, Vegetarian

Servings:

Calories: 159kcal

Rinse lentils under cool water until water drains clear.
Place the lentils and water in a large saucepan. Cover with water, and sprinkle with salt. Bring to a boil uncovered.
Reduce heat, and bring to a simmer. Cover and cook for 15 to 20 minutes, or until lentils are soft.
Drain any excess water before serving.

Rinse lentils under cool water until water drains clear.
Place lentils in the instant pot, add the water and salt. Stir to combine.
Secure the lid, set the valve to sealing. Set the pressure to high, and the time to 4 minutes.
Allow to naturally release pressure for 15 minutes, then turn the valve to quick release to release the remaining pressure. Remove the lid once all the steam has escaped.

Storage Directions

Refrigeration: Allow the lentils to cool completely and come to room temperature before storing them in an airtight container. Leftovers will keep stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freezing: After the lentils have cooled completely, transfer them to a freezer-safe container. Leftovers keep stored in the freezer for up to 1 month.
Reheating: Reheat lentils in a saucepan over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until they are heated all the way through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in the microwave. If the lentils have thickened, you can add a bit more water.

Recipe Notes

1 cup dry red lentils makes about 2½ cups cooked. 1 serving is about ⅔ cup cooked red lentils.
Be sure to thoroughly rinse your lentils before cooking. Sometimes tiny stones or other debris gets mixed into the lentils.
Add more spices! While this is a basic recipe for how to cook red lentils, you can add your favorite spices to amp up the flavor. I suggest turmeric, chili powder, cumin seeds, bay leaf, and coriander.