If you want to cook a typical Spanish dish, with a high nutritional content and tasty, don’t miss our guide on how to make potted lentils.

Lentils are a rich source of protein, fiber, and essential minerals such as iron and magnesium. Incorporating it into your diet can be beneficial for heart health and general well-being. Despite these benefits, cooking lentils from scratch can be a long and tedious process.

Therefore, in this guide, I will teach you how to make jarred lentils, a quick and nutritious option that does not sacrifice flavor. Perfect for a healthy meal on busy days, canned lentils can be a wonderful resource. Let’s find out how to prepare them!

We explain how to make potted lentils

Choose Potted Lentils

Lentils come in several varieties, such as Pardina, Castellana, or Beluga, each with a different flavor and texture. The right choice can make all the difference on your plate. Pardina, for example, is known for its firm texture and earthy flavor, while the Beluga, smaller and rounder, is ideal for salads.

When learning how to make jarred lentils, also consider the quality and origin, as this can influence the final flavor and texture.

Opt for Organic Lentils

Organic lentils tend to have a more intense and natural flavor.

Produced without chemical pesticides or synthetic fertilizers, these lentils can offer a purer flavor profile and are a healthier option. Look for labels that certify its organic origin to ensure its quality, genuine flavor, and commitment to sustainable agricultural practices.

Read the Label

Reading the bottle label is essential. Information on ingredients, additives, and recommended cooking time will guide you on how to make jarred lentils correctly. Sometimes jarred lentils can come with added salt or seasonings, which can affect those on low-sodium diets.

Additionally, the label may offer suggestions on how to prepare the lentils, or flavor combinations that work well.

Preparation of Lentils

Preparing jarred lentils is simple, but some essential steps They will ensure you the best result. Don’t forget to taste and adjust as you cook. Here we show you the details.

Wash the Lentils

Although they come in a jar, washing lentils helps remove any preservatives or additional flavors. You can place them in a colander under cold running water for a minute, shaking them gently to make sure they are rinsed well. This can also help improve the texture, eliminating any gelatinous residue that may be present.

Cook the Lentils

Cooking lentils is easy, but it is also a step where you can influence the final flavor. Follow the instructions on the bottle, which may vary depending on brand and type.

Usually this will involve heating them in a pan with a little olive oil or broth for a few minutes, or in the microwave if you’re looking for an even quicker option. Control the temperature and time to avoid drying out or overcooking.

Add Flavor

This is where you can get creative. Add garlic, onion, bay leaf, thyme or your favorite spices to give a personal touch to your potted lentils.

You can also add vegetables such as carrots or spinach for a more complete and colorful dish. Even a splash of red wine can add depth to the flavor. Experiment and find the combination that works best for you.

Serve the Lentils

Once you have mastered how to make potted lentils, It’s time to serve them. You can do it in many ways, depending on your tastes and needs.

As a companion

Potted lentils are excellent as an accompaniment to meat, poultry, or fish. Combine them with rice, roast potatoes or whole wheat bread for a balanced and satisfying meal. If desired, a splash of lemon or balsamic vinegar can elevate the flavor.

In Salads

For a fresh and light option, cool the lentils and toss them with fresh vegetables such as lettuce, tomato, avocado, walnuts, feta cheese and a dressing of your choice.

Potted lentils in a salad offer a unique texture and nutritional boost, providing protein and making it an excellent option for healthy lunches or light dinners. Experiment with different combinations to find your perfect lentil salad.

Conclusion

Knowing how to make jarred lentils can transform your culinary routine, offering a healthy and delicious option without the need for long hours in the kitchen.

From choosing the right variety to customizing them with your favorite flavors, canned lentils are versatile and convenient. I hope this guide has inspired you to experiment with canned lentils in your next meals. Bon appétit!