Lentils

[rockyracoon]

You don't need to boil them like dried beans do you, can you just add them to a stew?

Thanks :)

[Old_Geezer]

Been a while since I used dried lentils but I'm sure either works well. They just need rehydrating and cooking which they should do as the stew cooks.

[mrs_overall]

I soak mine overnight before use

[mazie]

Hi Rocky. I put mine in a jug and pour boiling water over them and leave for about 30 mins. What are you making?

[mrs_overall]

...but if you are cooking your stew for a long time they should be ok added straight to the stew

[237SJ]

I just throw them in whatever I`m cooking. I tend to give them a rinse first.

[rockyracoon]

Thanks all, I'm doing a veggie stew tomorrow night and thought I'd throw some lentils in but wasn't sure if I'd poison everyone or not.

[mrs_overall]

Do you want to poison anyone tomorrow night?
If so, drop me a line...

[rockyracoon]

Hmmmm, probably could rustle up a few names, I'll have a think ;)

[gingejbee]

Dried pulses vary a lot. Some need to be soaked, others don't.
It's not a case of poisoning, of course, but some won't hydrate properly without soaking...and will remain rather hard no matter how long they're cooked.

[Trefoil1]

I just throw a handful into soups stews etc and let them cook away merrily

[Butterbun]

Lentils will cook in about 20-30 minutes. Split peas is the tougher, needs soaking and longer cooking time.