47+ Vegan Lentil Recipes You'll Love - Best of Vegan (2024)

FAQs

Do vegans eat lentils? ›

Lentils give a hearty taste and texture to dishes and can be used in many ways. Along with the nutrients they provide, this makes them a suitable meat substitute for those following a vegetarian or vegan diet.

Brown or green lentils are a whole lot cheaper at the grocery store, so wouldn't those work just fine? The truth is that there is actually a difference between French lentils and the other guys — and depending on the recipe, the difference really matters.

Lentils come from seed-bearing plants called legumes. To be more specific, lentils are called pulses, the seeds that grow inside legume pods. Legume plants grow all over the world and produce many types of pulses, including beans, peas, and soybeans.

All types of lentils can usually be used interchangeably, although they may not have quite the same texture or, of course, colour. Orange, red and green lentils will turn mushier than puy lentils, which hold their shape and keep their texture well.

Deficiencies in minerals such as iodine, calcium, and zinc may also occur. Iodine deficiency is very common among vegans, often leading to acquired hypothyroidism [58]. Vegan sources of iodine include iodized salt and sea vegetables containing various amounts of the mineral [45].

A vegan diet is based on plants (such as vegetables, grains, nuts and fruits) and foods made from plants. Vegans do not eat foods that come from animals, including dairy products and eggs.

The best part is that black lentils are the most nutrient-dense type of lentil, including high quantities of calcium, potassium, iron, and protein. According to the USDA, a half cup of raw black lentils has 960 mg of potassium, 100 mg of calcium, 8 mg of iron, and 26g of protein.

Overall, lentils are a highly nutritious food with various health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects. The fiber and protein content in lentils make them beneficial for weight management, blood sugar regulation, and supporting overall gut health.

Urad dal or black lentil is one of the most nutritious pulses known to mankind. Low in fat and calories, Urad dal helps to improve digestion. With it being a rich source of protein and vitamin B3, it makes our bones stronger and is said to boost energy levels, enhance heart health and strengthen our nervous system.

If you have a few root vegetables hanging out in your fridge, those are also great with lentils, like in this warm lentil and root vegetable salad with parsnips and carrots. Lentils are particularly nice with cheese, as in this grilled halloumi and lentil salad.

Can I eat lentils every day? ›

Most people can enjoy lentils as part of their regular diet without any concern. But lentils also contain natural compounds called anti-nutrients. These substances bind with nutrients like iron and zinc, making them harder for our bodies to absorb. Soaking and cooking lentils can help reduce this effect.

Black Beluga lentils have the most flavor, adding a rich, earthy taste and a firm texture that holds up well during cooking. Black lentils will be ready in 20–25 minutes; however, they will fall apart like their brown, green, and red partners once you cook them for too long.

Cooking them at a rapid simmer can lead to them splitting their skins from the pressure and thus lead to mushy results. Follow this tip: Trust that a gentle simmer will cook the lentils perfectly. Bring the pot to a rapid simmer first, then reduce the heat to low so that the pot just barely bubbles.

Black-eyed peas (Vigna unguiculata) are a variety of cowpea and are part of the family of beans & peas (Leguminosae or Fabaceae). Although called a pea, it is actually a bean. Both peas and beans are legumes, and both have edible seeds and pods.

All beans are vegan in their natural unprocessed form. Most canned and dried beans are vegan; however, with all things processed even dried beans can have added ingredients derived from animals like ham. Even though most canned beans and dried beans are vegan be sure to read the label.

Lentils contain plant-based protein, making them a valued part of a vegan and vegetarian diet.

It encourages lots of vegetables (cooked or raw), fruits, beans, peas, lentils, soybeans, seeds, and nuts (in smaller amounts) and is generally low fat. Leading proponents in the field have varying opinions as to what comprises the optimal plant-based diet.

That's why a vegan diet avoids all animal products, including meat, eggs, and dairy. People choose to follow a vegan diet for various reasons. These usually range from ethics to environmental concerns, but they can also stem from a desire to improve health.