How Long to Cook Lentils in Rice Cooker​

Using a rice cooker for Cooking lentils is another method for cooking lentils that is super convenient and easy & results in the perfect tender legumes every time. This method is ideal for those who like passive cooking or lack a lot of kitchen appliances. This guide will not only discuss the ideal rice cooker cooking time for different lentil types, but we will also discuss what you need to consider when cooking lentils as well as tips to cook your lentils flawlessly.

But there are a few types of lentils, and each type has different values that can dictate your cooking time and the texture of your lentils. The most common are:

• Brown lentils: The most common type, with a mild and earthy taste. They’re a good addition to soups and stews because they keep their shape when cooked.
• Green: Also known as French green or Puy lentils; mild, slightly peppery flavor with a firm texture that holds up well in salads and side dishes.
• Red +Yellow lentils: These cook fast and go mushy while cooking; therefore, they are best for purees and soups while thickening things.
• Black Lentils: Also called beluga lentils (because they look like caviar), they are flavorful and hold their shape; great for salads and pilafs.

It is important to prepare your lentils well before you cook them:

1. Rinse: Put the lentils in a fine mesh colander and rinse under cool running water to wash dust and debris away.
2. Examine: Remove any pebbles or damaged lentils that are small.
3. Soak (Optional): We highly recommend soaking lentils for 1-2 hours before cooking, however, this is optional and only use if you want to reduce cooking time and increase digestibility.

Lentils cook faster or slower in a rice cooker depending on the kind of lentils and type of rice cooker. Here’s a general guideline:

Brown and green lentils: 30–40 minutes

Red and Yellow Lentils: about 15–20min.

Black Lentils: About 40 to 45 mins

These times are estimates; check the lentils for doneness at the end of the cooking cycle.

1. Rinse: Measure and rinse the lentils
2. Dump into Rice Cooker: Put washed lentils into rice cooker.
3. Add Liquid: For every 1 cup of lentils, add a 2:1 ratio of liquid (ex: 2 cups of water or broth for 1 cup of lentil)
4. Season (Optional): You can add seasoning for aubergines, such as bay leaves, garlic or herbs.
5. Cook: Place the lid on and turn the rice cooker on. Choose the white rice or grain setting, if applicable to your rice cooker.
6. Check if Cooked: After the cycle is done, repeat the check on the lentils. If they need a little bit longer then reset the cooker for just a few more minutes.
7. Fluff And Serve: Once cooked to your liking, fluff the lentils with a fork and serve.

Like all good things, the time it takes before lentils are ready is subject to several influencing aspects in the rice cooker:

• Lentil Age: Older lentils can take longer to cook.
• Altitude: If you live at a higher altitude, it can take longer for your loaf to cook.
• The Type of Rice Cooker: heat levels and cooking cycles vary significantly among different types of rice cookers
• Soaking: If you soak the lentils before, they will cook faster.

• Don’t Overcook:
  • They will break down easily so start checking for doneness a few minutes before the time given in the recipe.
• Swap Out Water:
  • Using broth, either vegetable or chicken, instead of water can add a good amount of flavor.
• After Cooking Phase:
  • If using acidic ingredients such as tomatoes or vinegar, stir into lentils once they are prepared; add during cooking as they will harden lentils.
• Batch-Cook:
  • Cook a bunch and freeze portions for easy meals.

The rice cooker method of cooking lentils is simple, is convenient but does not compromise the quality of the lentils cooked. If you know your lentils well and follow the 3 golden steps, you will get your lentils cooked to perfection every time. Feel free to customize the taste by playing around with seasonings and broths, and enjoy the great versatility and healthy benefits lentils have to offer.

Yes, combining lentils and rice is possible. Ensure both have similar cooking times or adjust the process accordingly. For instance, brown rice and green lentils pair well together.

Soaking is optional. It can reduce cooking time and improve digestibility but isn’t necessary.

Hard water, acidic ingredients, or old lentils can prevent proper softening. Ensure you’re using fresh lentils and add acidic components after cooking.

Yes, you can cook lentils in a rice cooker. It’s an easy, hands-off method that delivers tender, flavorful lentils with minimal effort. Simply rinse, add water or broth, and let the rice cooker handle the rest.