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    Home » Beans and Lentils

    Vegan Lentil Recipes

    Published: Apr 13, 2020 · Modified: Aug 28, 2020 by Jenn Sebestyen

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    If you have a bag or can of lentils in your pantry, you won’t go hungry! From soups and chilis to casseroles and burgers and even appetizers and snacks, check out this collection of the Best Vegan Lentil Recipes!

    Brown lentils in a wooden bowl.

    Lentils are a pantry staple that lend themselves well to a variety of meatless dishes. They’re healthy, hearty, inexpensive, quick-cooking, and totally satisfying.

    I’ve rounded up the BEST vegan lentil recipes so you can learn to love these mini legumes, too.

    Table of Contents hide
    1 What are Lentils
    2 Lentil varieties
    3 Nutrition highlights
    4 How to cook
    5 Storage/Freezing
    6 Pro Tips for success
    7 FAQs
    8 More vegan recipe collections
    9 Vegan Lentil Recipes

    What are Lentils

    Like beans, lentils are part of the legume family. They grow in pods containing just one or two tiny seeds and are often referred to as “pulses.” The shape of the dried beans look like a lens, which is how they got their name. The word “lentil” comes from the Latin word for “lens.”

    Lentil varieties

    4 varieties of dried lentils: brown, yellow, red, and black.
    Lentil Varieties: Brown lentils, yellow lentils, red lentils, and black lentils.

    These little seeds come in several colors, which offer varying consistencies, including brown, red, yellow, green and black.

    Brown and Green ~ These varieties are typically the ones you’ll find in almost all grocery stores. Basic green lentils are generally a pale green or brownish-green color and are very similar in texture to the brown variety, which is why I’m grouping them together here. They have an earthy, yet mild, flavor and retain their shape fairly well if not overcooked. But you can easily mash or purée them if cooked a little longer. Use them in soups, stews and chilis, casseroles, salads, burgers, and veggie meatloaf.

    Red and Yellow ~ These cook in the shortest amount of time and break down readily. They are best used in soups and stews or puréed until silky smooth.

    French ~ This variety has a dark green, almost blue hued color. Puy, or lentilles du Puy, is a specific type of French lentil that is harvested from the Le Puy region in France. They have the strongest flavor, almost peppery, and also take a bit longer to cook. Holding their shape very well even after long cooking times, they are perfectly suited for salads, side dishes, or any dish that would benefit from a bit of texture.

    Black ~ Resembling caviar in look, they are often called Beluga lentils. Beautifully shiny black, they are best used in salads or side dishes.

    Nutrition highlights

    Lentils may be small, but they are highly nutritious. They’re low in calories and nearly fat free. They are an excellent source of many vitamins and minerals, including folate, fiber, iron, zinc, B vitamins, and protein.

    Because of their nutritional qualities, they may have the ability to lower cholesterol and balance blood sugars. [source]

    How to cook

    Canned lentils are pre-cooked and ready to eat. While not necessary, it is recommended to rinse them under cold water thoroughly to remove any excess sodium.

    Dried brown lentils on a wooden board.

    Dried pulses do not need to be soaked. You do, however, need to pick through them to remove any pebbles or stones. Then give them a good rinse under cold water to remove any dust or debris.

    Stove-top method

    Brown lentils cooking in a copper pot with a lemon slice on top.

    Brown, green, and French varieties do well with a ratio of 1 cup of dried pulses to 3 cups of water or broth and will result in about 2 ½ cups of cooked lentils.

    Bring the liquid to a rapid boil and then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer until tender, about 30 to 45 minutes depending on the age of the lentils. Check them early for doneness to avoid overcooking and becoming mushy. Drain any excess water before seasoning.

    Red and yellow varieties need only 1 ½ cups of liquid for every 1 cup of dried seeds. Bring to a rapid boil, then decrease the heat to a gentle simmer for 12 to 15 minutes. Drain any excess water before seasoning.

    Black, or Beluga, will take about 25 to 30 minutes with a ratio of 1 cup dried lentil to 2 ¼ cups liquid. Drain any excess water before seasoning.

    Pressure cooker method

    Pressure cooking, like in the popular Instant Pot, is also a useful method for cooking all types. Use 1 ½ to 2 cups of liquid for every 1 cup of dried lentil beans.

    For brown and green cook under high pressure for 6 to 8 minutes with a natural release of 10 minutes. This amount of time will make them tender, yet slightly firm and retaining their shape. For a softer consistency, cook 10 to 12 minutes.

    Black or Puy varieties need about 9 to 10 minutes under high pressure with a 10 minute natural release.

    For red lentils, cook them under high pressure for just 3 minutes with a natural release of 10 minutes. These will be soft and broken down, which is what red lentils are supposed to do.

    Storage/Freezing

    Dried pulses should be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. Stored properly, they should keep up to a year.

    Once cooked, they will keep for about 3 to 4 days in a covered container in the fridge. Or you can freeze them in freezer safe bags for up to 6 months. I suggest freezing them in 1 to 2 cup portions to easily add to vegan lentil recipes as needed.

    Pro Tips for success

    Diced onion, celery, and carrot on a wooden cutting board.
    Aromatics used to flavor lentils while cooking: onions, celery, carrots.
    • Canned lentils can be used as is, but it is recommended to rinse them well under cold water to remove any excess sodium.
    • Be sure to pick through dried pulses to remove any stones or pebbles and give them a good rinse under cold water to remove any dust or debris.
    • Use a big pot to cook as they will at least double in size (or more).
    • Use broth instead of water for a flavor boost.
    • Aromatics (onions, garlic, ginger, carrots, celery, etc.) may be added to the cooking liquid for added flavor, as well.
    • Do not salt the cooking water until they are tender, as it could prohibit them from cooking properly.
    • Season them while they are still warm, but after draining any excess liquid from the pot.

    FAQs

    Is a lentil a bean?

    Just like beans and peas, lentils are in the legume family, meaning they grow in pods.

    Are lentils healthy?

    Lentils are low in fat and calories, rich in iron and folate, and a terrific source of healthy plant protein. So, enjoy those vegan lentil recipes!

    Do lentils cause gas?

    Just like beans, the sugars in lentils can cause extra gas in certain individuals. If you tend to feel bloated or gassy after eating lentils, it maybe beneficial to soak and/or sprout them, making them easier on the digestive system.

    Why are the lentils still hard after cooking?

    Adding salt or acidic ingredients early in the cooking process, before the lentils are tender, can cause them to not cook properly. Wait to add these seasonings until after they are soft.

    Also, it’s possible to get an old batch of dried lentils that just refuse to soften no matter how long you cook them.

    Do not eat undercooked lentils as they can cause digestive issues.

    9-photo collage of a variety of vegan lentil recipes.
    Variety of Vegan Lentil Recipes: Sloppy Joes, enchiladas, bolognese, salad, burgers, tacos, patties, chili, sausages.

    More vegan recipe collections

    • Vegan Black Bean Recipes
    • Vegan Chickpea Recipes
    • Vegan Soup Recipes
    • Vegan Breakfast Recipes
    • Vegan Rice Recipes
    • Vegan Quinoa Recipes

    I hope you love these Vegan Lentil Recipes as much as we do! If you try any of them please leave a comment below with your feedback.

    Be sure to sign up for my FREE Newsletter to be the first to get my NEW recipes! You can also follow me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest.

    Vegan Lentil Recipes

    If you have a bag or can of lentils in your pantry, you won't go hungry! From soups and chilis to casseroles and burgers and even appetizers and snacks, check out this collection of the best vegan recipes using lentils!

    Soups/Stews/Chilis

    Lentils are a delicious addition to soups, stews, and chilis! They're hearty and "meaty" and, depending on the variety used, can either bring texture or puréed until silky smooth.

    Lentil Rice Soup

    This protein and veggie packed Lentil Rice Soup is hearty and flavorful and sure to warm your belly and your soul. It’s made with simple ingredients, most of which you probably already have in your pantry and fridge. 

    Photo Credit: www.veggieinspired.com

    Lentil Quinoa Soup 

    Using fridge and pantry staples, this protein-packed soup comes together quickly and easily. It has a delicious smoky flavor and is perfect for any night of the week. Gluten Free

    Photo Credit: www.veggieinspired.com

    Hungarian Red Lentil Soup 

    This recipe comes together fast, thanks to red lentils and easy ingredients. The Hungarian paprika, dry mustard, and tomato paste give this simple dish a wonderful depth of flavor. This soup goes great with some fresh crusty bread! Gluten Free

    Photo Credit: www.veggieinspired.com

    Slow Cooker Red Lentil Stew 

    Throw all the ingredients in your slow cooker, so you can sit back and relax! It's lightly spiced with cumin and a smoky kick of smoked paprika. Fresh parsley thrown in at the end brightens up the whole thing. Delicious!

    Photo Credit: www.veggieinspired.com

    Pumpkin Lentil Chili

    This hearty, protein and veggie packed chili, has the perfect balance of heat and sweet. Gluten Free

    Photo Credit: cadryskitchen.com

    Curry Lentil Soup

    Made from pantry staples and ready in under 30 minutes!

    Photo Credit: veggiedesserts.com

    Easy Lentil Soup

    Velvety smooth and high in protein, this nourishing soup is ready is under 30 minutes!

    Photo Credit: recipesfromapantry.com

    Slow Cooker Lentil Curry

    Full of flavor and easy to make using pantry staples.

    Photo Credit: www.staceyhomemaker.com

    Vegan Creamy Spinach Artichoke Chickpea Soup

    Your favorite spinach artichoke combo paired with protein and fiber packed lentils and chickpeas in a creamy golden coconut broth.

    Photo Credit: avirtualvegan.com

    Red Lentil Soup with Lemon

    Thick and hearty and bright with lemon, this soup is lightened up comfort food!

    Salads

    It's easy to add a protein packed punch to salads by tossing in some lentils! Brown, green, or black varieties are generally best here as they hold their shape well.

    Photo Credit: www.veggieinspired.com

    Lentil Quinoa Spinach Salad 

    Packed with protein, superfood greens, refreshing fruits, and healthy fats, this salad is hearty enough to be an entrée. Gluten Free

    Photo Credit: www.veggieinspired.com

    Roasted Cauliflower Salad w/ Lentils & Grapes

    Curried cauliflower roasted until tender and golden and then tossed with protein-packed lentils and sweet, juicy grapes. It’s flavor and texture dynamite!

    Photo Credit: www.karissasvegankitchen.com

    Apple Lentil Salad

    Crispy crunchy apples, sweet dried cranberries, and fragrant fresh herbs are a tasty complement to protein packed earthy lentils.

    Photo Credit: downshiftology.com

    Warm Sweet Potato Noodles, Cabbage and Lentil Salad

    This satiating salad is a meal in itself with spiralized sweet potato noodles, filling lentils and cabbage, and a creamy Dijon vinaigrette.

    Photo Credit: www.lovelyjubley.com

    Warming Maple Roasted Winter Veg Salad

    Sweet and smoky maple roasted veggies are a perfect match for peppery arugula and earthy lentils. A showstopper of a salad!

    Photo Credit: www.godairyfree.org

    Mediterranean Lentil Salad 

    The flavors of the Mediterranean brought to your table in this easy and healthy Lentil salad.

    Photo Credit: asimplepalate.com

    The Best Crunchy Lentil Salad

    Lentils, veggies, nuts, and ever sweet grapes, all tossed in a lemony herb dressing for a tasty balance of flavor and texture.

    Photo Credit: sproutsandkrauts.com

    Black Lentil Pomegranate Salad 

    Tart, juicy pomegranates pair well with the earthiness of lentils and tahini in this fancy salad.

    Burgers/Patties/Loaves/Sandwiches

    Lentils are a wonderful addition to burgers, patties and veggie loaves. They can be flavored to mimic meat in taste and texture and bring healthy plant based protein, fiber, and many key vitamins and minerals.

    Photo Credit: www.veggieinspired.com

    Vegan Sloppy Joes 

    Sweet, smoky, tangy, and messy - a family favorite 30 minute meal!

    Photo Credit: www.veggieinspired.com

    Baked Red Lentil Quinoa Fritters 

    Turmeric, cumin and a touch of cinnamon, spice these flavorful patties. They're oil free and baked, not fried. An easy, high protein, meatless dinner! Gluten Free

    Photo Credit: www.veggieinspired.com

    Asian Lentil Burger Lettuce Wraps

    Your favorite Asian flavors, like mushrooms, green onions, garlic, soy sauce, and sriracha mingle with pantry staples of lentils and rice to create a veggie burger that's full of umami! We like to serve them with lettuce wraps instead of buns.

    Photo Credit: www.veggieinspired.com

    Lentil Balls in Sweet and Sour Sauce

    There are so many tasty ingredients wrapped up in these little balls, they're delicious even without the sauce!

    Photo Credit: savoryspin.com

    Easy, Spiced, Chickpea Potato Patties (Vegetarian)

    Spicy little lentil potato patties make a delicious light dinner.

    Photo Credit: nutriciously.com

    Healthy Lentil Loaf Recipe 

    A healthy vegan twist on a typical meat and potatoes type dish. Filling, tasty, and totally satisfying!

    Photo Credit: www.veggiessavetheday.com

    Vegan Meatloaf Muffins 

    All the flavors of a typical loaf, but way more fun to eat!

    Photo Credit: www.rhiansrecipes.com

    Vegan Eggplant Pulled Pork Burger 

    The meaty flavor and texture of these sandwiches comes from eggplant and lentils smothered in a yummy homemade BBQ sauce.

    Photo Credit: itsavegworldafterall.com

    Beet and Green Lentil Cakes

    Bring a pop of color to your plate with these simple and pretty lentil patties.

    Casseroles

    Lentils are a go-to plant based option in recipes where you'd typically find ground meat. Healthy, filling, and nutritious.

    Photo Credit: www.veggieinspired.com

    Lentil Cottage Pie 

    This vegetarian version of Shepherd's Pie features hearty lentils, butternut squash, cauliflower, and spices in a rich savory tomato sauce all topped off with creamy potato carrot mash. Total comfort food! Gluten Free

    Photo Credit: veeatcookbake.com

    Vegan Shepherd's Pie

    Lentils, mushrooms, and pecans mingle under creamy mashed potatoes for another delicious twist on Shepherd's Pie.

    Photo Credit: shahzadidevje.com

    Indian Vegan Shepherd's Pie 

    Shepherd's Pie not only get a vegan makeover, but an Indian twist as well! Yum!

    Photo Credit: elavegan.com

    Vegan Moussaka with Lentils

    With eggplant and lentils, this vegan version of a classic Greek dish, is filling and flavorful.

    Photo Credit: thebananadiaries.com

    The Best Vegan Lasagna (Gluten Free!)

    This creative lasagna recipe uses sweet potato slices instead of noodles, lentil bolognese, homemade dairy-free ricotta, and fresh tomato slices. Easy to assemble, healthy, and mouthwatering!

    Photo Credit: www.spabettie.com

    Spicy Potato Lentil Pies

    Individual savory baked lentil potato pies topped with a flaky gluten free crust!

    Pasta

    Anything paired with pasta is usually a winner for family night and lentils are no exception!

    Photo Credit: www.veggieinspired.com

    Lentil Mushroom Healthy Bolognese

    This hearty, savory sauce is loaded with lentils and mushrooms and will please even the meat-lovers in your house!

    Photo Credit: myplantbasedfamily.com

    Plant-Based Goulash

    Lentils and red kidney beans replace the traditional meat found in goulash recipes, but the same wonderful flavor you love is all there!

    Photo Credit: www.bytheforkful.com

    Delicious One-Pot Red Lentil Bolognese

    Using red lentils that break down for a looser sauce than typical lentil bolognese recipes, this delicious, kid-friendly dish is perfect served over your favorite pasta!

    Photo Credit: www.staceyhomemaker.com

    Vegan Lentil Meatballs

    These vegan meatballs are firm, yet tender, and loaded with flavor. A big plate of pasta topped with hearty meatballs...is there anything better?

    Tacos/Wraps

    Black beans aren't the only legume perfect for Taco Tuesday. Grab some tortillas and try one of these delicious dishes for dinner tonight.

    Photo Credit: www.veggieinspired.com

    Lentil Mushroom Tacos 

    Switch up your Taco Tuesday routine and try these delicious, flavorful vegan tacos!

    Photo Credit: shortgirltallorder.com

    Vegan Lentil Tacos with Pico de Gallo

    These lentil tacos bring some heat which is perfectly paired with homemade avocado pico de gallo.

    Photo Credit: avirtualvegan.com

    Enchilada Lentil Tacos with Lime Slaw

    Lentils simmered in a spicy homemade enchilada sauce and served taco style with a zippy lime slaw.

    Photo Credit: thenutfreevegan.net

    Chipotle Lentil Taquitos

    Spicy, smoky, and filling these taquitos make a great meal, appetizer, or snack.

    Photo Credit: www.veggiesdontbite.com

    Vegan Taquitos

    Healthy rolled tacos that taste like junk food. Sign me up!

    Photo Credit: www.thecuriouschickpea.com

    Vegan Lentil Enchiladas

    Savory lentil fills, homemade enchilada sauce, and a creamy dairy-free butternut queso make these vegan enchiladas irresistible!

    Photo Credit: littlesunnykitchen.com

    Vegan Lentil Wraps With Fresh Salad & Yogurt Garlic Sauce Recipe

    Fresh and flavorful - a delicious easy lunch option!

    Miscellaneous

    From curries and BBQ to all things stuffed vegetables, these recipes will all be winners for your meatless meal.

    Photo Credit: www.veggieinspired.com

    Masala Lentils

    If you want to impress someone with a dal, make it this one. Don't be afraid of the number of spices - it is quite simple to make. Serve with rice or naan or as part of a larger meal. So flavorful!

    Photo Credit: www.veggieinspired.com

    Sweet and Smoky BBQ Lentils 

    A tangy, vinegar based, and totally tomato free BBQ sauce smothers healthy hearty lentils for a delicious dish that's perfect paired with rice, noodles, or potatoes!

    BBQ Lentil Power Bowls

    Texture and flavor galore in these easy weeknight dinner bowls. High protein lentils, caramelized roasted veggies, crunchy coleslaw, and tangy BBQ sauce. Kid and hubby approved!

    Photo Credit: www.mydarlingvegan.com

    Moroccan Spiced Stuffed Eggplant

    Make vegetables the star of the show with this saucy lentil filling baked inside a tender roasted eggplant.

    Photo Credit: healthiersteps.com

    Coconut Lentil Curry (Jamaican Style)

    Lentils and veggies in an aromatic coconut curry sauce is a flavorful one-pot dish you'll love!

    Photo Credit: veggiedesserts.com

    Lentil Carrot Hot Dog Recipe

    Easy to make homemade vegan hot dogs that aren't just marinated whole carrots! So creative!

    Photo Credit: www.threeolivesbranch.com

    Vegan Lentil Taco Stuffed Peppers

    Mexican flavored lentil filling stuffed into bell peppers and baked until hot and bubbly.

    Photo Credit: www.frieddandelions.com

    Stuffed Squash with Curried Lentils

    A showstopper entrée that puts vegetables in the center of your plate!

    Photo Credit: www.plantpowercouple.com

    Vegan Condensed Cream of Chicken Soup

    5 ingredients and just 20 minutes is all you need to turn red lentils into this creamy vegan version of condensed cream of chicken soup! Amazing!

    Breakfast/Snacks

    Lentils aren't typically thought of as breakfast ingredients, but you'll be amazed at just how well they work in these recipes!

    Photo Credit: mypureplants.com

    Fluffy Vegan Protein Pancakes 

    Light and fluffy pancakes with an added protein punch. You won't believe this favorite breakfast dish contains lentils!

    Photo Credit: www.nutriplanet.org

    Lentil Oatmeal 

    This creamy breakfast porridge is a yummy low-carb alternative to traditional oatmeal.

    Photo Credit: bohemianvegankitchen.com

    Seriously the Best Vegan Breakfast Sausage Recipe Ever

    Lentils, oats, and flaxseed come together with typical sausage spices for a delicious vegan spin on a breakfast classic.

    Photo Credit: thehonoursystem.com

    Crispy Lentil Energy Bites

    Cooked lentils tossed with cinnamon and sugar and roasted until crunchy are then combined with oats, seeds, nut butter, maple syrup, and chocolate chips for a truly unique, nutritious snack!

    Photo Credit: www.elephantasticvegan.com

    Lentil Hummus Recipe

    Using canned or leftover cooked lentils, this hummus dip comes together in just 5 minutes! Perfect for snacking or parties!

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    Comments

    1. Painthacker says

      April 15, 2020 at 2:52 pm

      Great recipes! I look forward to trying some. You should know, though, that in Roman times lenses didn’t exist. The Latin word ‘lens’ means lentil. Lenses were named after lentils, not the other way around.

      Reply
      • Jenn Sebestyen says

        April 15, 2020 at 3:21 pm

        Ah, very interesting! Thank you for sharing!

        Reply

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    Jenn Sebestyen of Veggie Inspired

    Hi, I'm Jenn! This is where I share delicious plant based recipes for the whole family. I love to cook; I can read cookbooks like novels; and I enjoy experimenting in the kitchen by making standard American favorites healthier.

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