Nicknamed Beluga for the caviar they resemble, Black lentils retain their shape after cooking and are smaller than green or red lentils - only about 1/8th-inch or so in diameter. This elegant lentil works well in soups, salads, side dishes, dal and casseroles. Black Beluga Basics Black beluga lentils resemble beluga caviar in appearance and possess a warm, nutty flavour. But the truly unique thing about these lentils is their high concentrations of anthocyanins, the beneficial antioxidants found in blue-purple fruits like blueberries, plums, and cherries. Anthocyanins give Black Beluga Lentils their shiny dark colour. Just a half cup of cooked black lentils contains about 12 grams of protein and 9 grams of fiber. Lentils have the third-highest level of protein, by weight, of any legume or nut, after soybeans and hemp. In addition to fiber and vegan protein, lentils contain B vitamins, folic acid, dietary fiber, vitamin C, B vitamins, essential amino acids and antioxidants. Tasty Tips and Storage Black beluga lentils retain their shape and a firm, pleasant texture when cooked, so they work well in soups, casseroles and salads as well as Indian Dal. They cook quickly to a nice 'al dente' consistency. Unlike dried beans, there is no need to soak lentils. Basic cooking instructions: Pick over lentils to remove any dirt, rinse them and drain. Cover 1 cup of Grainworks Organic Black Beluga Lentils with 2-1/2 cups of water or broth. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer 15-30 minutes or until tender.