Why the need to soak lentils? How will if effect the recipe if I dont soak them? Do all lentils need overnight soaking?
This is for a lentil+beef stew recipe. Is it the same for any recipe? I usually just rince them...
6 Comments
littlechef14February 12, 2012
soak the lentils to get the dirt out. some people say its to get the gas out. and others say its to make them more digestible. but mostly its to clean them.
PanfusineFebruary 12, 2012
Bishops weed (Known as Ajwain, Ajowan,.. you can get it at Indian grocery stores) is added to the lentils while cooking help get the 'Gas' out. It has a lovely., Intense thyme flavor
The S.February 12, 2012
Another one who has never soaked lentils. However I will add to answer number 1 and say that if it calls for red lentils, add them early, they're supposed to basically dissolve and thicken the stew anyway. But if it is more like a lentil du puy that should hold its shape, I agree, add later.
angiegeyserFebruary 12, 2012
Agree, I have never soaked lentils. Odd that a recipe would tell you to do so.
PanfusineFebruary 12, 2012
Never soak lentils myself, unlike beans they cook quite fast, just rinse add to double the quantity of water and cook covered for 20 m. As sam says, cook & add them separately else they get mushy
Sam1148February 12, 2012
I never soak them for any length of time. Maybe 10 mins or so rinsing, to get powder off. They should cook just fine in the stew. In fact they may cook too well and become mush.
I'd cook them separately and add to the stew in the last 30 mins.
I'd cook them separately and add to the stew in the last 30 mins.
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