Green Lentils are versatile pantry staples with mild earthy flavour and a soft texture. They retain their large, flat shape when cooked. The Latin word for lentil, Lens, was used in the 17th century to describe eyeglasses because of the similarity in shape. About Green Lentils Lentils have been a part of human history for over 6000 years., and were one of the first cultivated foods. In India, lentils are known as Dal, and they play a significant role in Indian cuisine. Lentils are rich in beneficial soluble and insoluble dietary fiber. Also, lentils have the third-highest level of protein, by weight, of any legume or nut, after soybeans and hemp. Lentils also contain B vitamins, folic acid, dietary fiber, vitamin C, B vitamins, essential amino acids and trace minerals, and antioxidants. Tasty Tips and Storage Green lentils are an excellent choice for mashing into patties to make lentil burgers, a delicious meat burger alternative. Since they retain their shape when cooked, they're also a great choice for salads, soups, casseroles, stuffed vegetables and more. Lentils can also be ground into a high-protein flour. Lentils do not need to be soaked overnight although they should be rinsed before cooking. Basic cooking instructions: Pick over lentils to remove any dirt, rinse them and drain. Cover 1 cup of Grainworks Organic Green Lentils with 2-1/2 cups of water or broth. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer 35-45 minutes or until tender.