Can lentils be soaked and frozen in batches?

Question

Is soaking and freezing lentils in batches a good time-saving hack? Discover how this meal-prep technique can streamline your cooking process.

Answer 1

Yes, lentils can be soaked and frozen in batches. Soaking them beforehand reduces cooking time, and freezing preserves them for later use.

Detailed Explanation:

Soaking lentils before cooking helps to break down complex sugars, making them easier to digest and reducing cooking time. Freezing soaked lentils is a convenient way to prepare meals in advance. Here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Soak the Lentils: Rinse the lentils thoroughly under cold water to remove any debris. Place them in a large bowl and cover with plenty of water (at least 3 times the volume of the lentils). Soak for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, in the refrigerator.
2. Drain and Rinse: After soaking, drain the lentils in a colander and rinse them well under cold water. This removes any released starches.
3. Portion and Package: Divide the soaked and rinsed lentils into freezer-safe bags or containers. Portion them according to your typical usage (e.g., 1 cup, 2 cups).
4. Freeze: Remove as much air as possible from the bags or containers to prevent freezer burn. Label each bag with the date and contents. Freeze for up to 3 months.
5. Thaw and Cook: When ready to use, thaw the lentils in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave. Cook as you normally would, keeping in mind that the cooking time will be reduced due to the initial soaking.

Pro Tip:

To prevent lentils from clumping together when freezing, spread them out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper after draining and rinsing. Freeze them individually for about an hour before transferring them to freezer bags. This 'flash freezing' technique helps them stay separate.