seasoning blend of choice, or to taste, (see recipe notes)
Instructions
for the Instant Pot method
Rinse the lentils then transfer to the Instant Pot and cover with 2 cups water. Add bay leaves, garlic, and a pinch of salt.
Insert and lock the lid, then select PRESSURE COOK on the high setting. Set the timer for 10minutes, then allow the pressure to release naturally for 15 minutes before opening the lid safely.
Select CANCEL, then SAUTE. Add additional salt and/or your optional seasoning blend to season the lentils, and simmer for 2-3 minutes.
Turn off the heat and finish with optional fresh lime.
for the saucepan method
Rinse the lentils then transfer to a small saucepan and cover with 2 ½ cups water. Add bay leaves, garlic, and a pinch of salt.
Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and partially cover.
Simmer 20 minutes, then add additional salt and/or your optional seasoning blend to season the lentils, and simmer for another 5 minutes.
Turn off the heat and finish with optional fresh lime.
Notes
Choose your lentils
French lentils and black lentils are specialty lentils that you can buy on Amazon, or at a specialty grocery store like Whole Foods.You can substitute with the common brown or green lentils. Cook these in the Instant Pot for 10 minutes, and simmer in the saucepan for 20-25 minutes.There is no need to soak your lentils. Just rinse them once. These types of lentils will hold its shape when cooked.
Seasoning blends
I love a seasoning blend with lentils and beans, because let’s face it: lentils and beans taste bland, and sometimes you can feel a little heavy after eating them, and the seasoning helps with digestibility.There is an increasing selection of seasoning blends on the market today. I like something with garlic and onion powder, as well as celery salt, herbs, lemon, or even a little mild chili.In fact I was at a makers market today and discovered Bittersweet Herb Farm, which sells a variety of salt, sugar, and preservative free spice blends that are also available from their website.The popular salt-free Mrs. Dash is another good option.I think a Mexican chili powder is another possibility. These spice blends typically contain oregano, cumin, nutmeg, bell peppers, and a small amount of chili.Many North Americans will have Mexican Chili Powder in their pantry already. It was one of the few spices my mom used. It’s basically an American Tex-Mex version of red chili power with more flavor and less chili.
Trader Joe’s blends
Trader Joe’s carries a good variety of seasoning blends, such as Green Goddess Seasoning Blend, Onion Salt, Citrusy Garlic, and 21 Seasoning Salute.Check your local store for seasoning blends and try one, but make sure you read your labels for the ingredients.Trader Joe’s blends tend to have some additives.I want you to know that whenever you see “natural flavors,” this ingredient is highly concentrated and similar to MSG.Personally, I am okay with a little pizzazz from a seasoning blend when flavoring beans.I feel that the flavor, and the digestive support, is worth the tradeoff.You’ve got options!