Now, about that soaking - it's a crucial step in cooking lentils, but don't worry, it's not as complicated as it sounds. Basically, you need to soak those little legumes in water for a certain amount of time to help 'em rehydrate and cook more evenly. The soaking time can vary depending on the type of lentil, but we'll get to that in a sec.
Green lentils, for example, typically need to soak for around 30 minutes to an hour, while red lentils can get away with just 15-20 minutes. And if you're using beluga lentils, well, you're in luck - they don't need to soak at all! But here's the thing: soaking time can also depend on your personal preference - do you like your lentils super soft or still a bit firm?
Fun fact: did you know that lentils have been around for thousands of years? Like, ancient civilizations used to revere these little legumes as a staple food source. And it's no wonder - lentils are packed with nutrients and are incredibly sustainable to produce.
Red Lentil Pancakes - Healthy Little Foodies