Lentils
Having been cultivated by humans for thousands of years, lentils are a staple in many of the cuisines of India, throughout Western Asia and into much of the Mediterranean. In fact, even today India produces about a quarter of the world’s supply of lentils, and for many people in India it’s a food they eat daily.
Similar to beans, there are practically endless varieties; among these include sub-varieties of red, black, yellow, and other lentils. Depending on the type, they often don’t even need to be soaked before cooking, so they take less time to cook with than beans.
Although the recipes containing lentils are as endless as the lentil varieties themselves, they’re commonly included in curries, soups, and stews.
Nutritionally, these legumes are very high in protein and fiber and low in fat. They also have high concentrations of vitamin Bs and many minerals, including most of the electrolytes.
Lentils are usually sold dried, either whole or split. If you’re looking for them at Uwajimaya, you’ll find them in our grocery department.
