What are Lentils?
Lentils are grains that are lens-shaped they are also used in soups and stews, mostly used in Indian cuisine. Lentils are edible seeds from the legume family that are distinguished by their lens shape. They have a high protein and fibre content and are a rich source of iron, potassium, folate and B vitamins. Different types of lentils have different flavors and are used in salads.
Types of Lentils
There are different types of lentils which are one the oldest cultivated legumes. The contain fibres and protein which are easy to cook and need not to be soaked.
There are 4 main types of lentils:
- Brown Lentils: These are soil-like taste, easily available and cooked easily. Used in soups, stews, etc.
- Green Lentils: These are very strong in flavour and present in different sizes. Used to make green curry and sprouts in salads for protein intake.
- Red and Yellow Lentils: They both have different flavour and texture. They are slightly sweet, mushy texture and nutty flavour.
- Black Lentils: Black beluga lentils are black and spherical.
Difference Between Lentils and Pulses
Lentils and pulses both are members of the Fabaceae family. They both are known for their high dietary fiber and protein content. They are also known for being the staple part of many diets worldwide. They have many similarities as well as differences. The lentil is a bushy annual plant of the legume family, grown for its lens-shaped seeds.
They are 40cm tall, and the seeds are grown in pods with two seeds. They are the first crop that originated in the Near East and have been part of the human diet for a long time. In this article, we will read about pulses, and lentils, their types, the differences between them, and the benefits of including them in our daily meals.
Table of Content
- Difference Between Lentils and Pulses
- What are Pulses?
- What are Lentils?
- Similarities Between Lentils and Pulses
- Benefits of Pulses and Lentils