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Yellow Lentils

Yellow lentils, also known as moong dal, are a staple ingredient in many cuisines, particularly Indian cooking. These split lentils boast a bright yellow color, mild sweetness, and a soft, creamy texture that melts away during cooking. Let's explore why yellow lentils are essential for comforting, flavor-packed dishes.

What Makes Yellow Lentils Unique

  • Mild and Sweet: Their subtle, slightly sweet flavor makes them versatile for both savory and sweet recipes.
  • Creamy Texture: Yellow lentils, unlike many varieties, break down completely when cooked, creating a luscious, thick texture.
  • Quick Cooking: No lengthy soaking is required with split lentils, making weeknight meals a breeze.

Culinary Delights with Yellow Lentils

  • Indian Dals: Yellow lentils are the heart of classic, comforting dals – those richly spiced, gently simmered lentil dishes.
  • Puréed Soups: They add body and creaminess to soups, creating a satisfying and nourishing meal.
  • Smooth and Savory: Yellow lentils are perfect for savory dishes with creamy textures, like lentil curries or spreads.
  • Unexpected Sweets: Their subtle sweetness makes them surprisingly delicious in sweet preparations as well.

Cooking Yellow Lentils

Brown lentils are incredibly easy to prepare:

  • Soak: To ensure that lentils are not hard after cooking, make sure to soak them for at least 4 hours, but preferably 8 hours or overnight. Some types of lentils may not require soaking, but most of them benefit from it. For soaking, always use about 3 – 4 cups of water for each cup of dry lentils.
  • Cook: Generally, use a ratio of about 1 cup dry lentils to about 2 1/2 cups of liquid (you can use water from soaking). Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until tender.
  • Flavor: They are excellent flavor carriers; be bold with your favorite spices!

Yellow lentils offer an incredibly satisfying, creamy base for delicious plant-based dishes. Their versatility and ease of preparation make them a valuable staple to always have on hand

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