What are prep-friendly pulses that cook quickly?

Question

What are some prep-friendly pulses that cook quickly? Discover a list of lentils and legumes that are perfect for last-minute meals.

Answer 1

Red lentils and split peas are excellent prep-friendly pulses that cook relatively quickly, often in under 30 minutes, making them ideal for quick meals.

Detailed Explanation:

When looking for pulses that are both prep-friendly and cook quickly, consider the following:

1. Red Lentils: These lentils don't require pre-soaking and break down easily during cooking, resulting in a creamy texture. They typically cook in about 15-20 minutes.
2. Split Peas (Green or Yellow): Similar to red lentils, split peas don't need pre-soaking and cook relatively quickly. They usually take around 25-30 minutes to become tender.
3. Brown or Green Lentils (Smaller Varieties): While they may benefit from a brief rinse, smaller brown or green lentils generally cook faster than larger varieties like French green lentils. Expect a cooking time of around 20-30 minutes.
4. Canned Chickpeas or Beans: While technically pre-cooked, canned chickpeas and beans are incredibly convenient. Simply rinse and add them to your dish. They are ready to eat and require no cooking time.

The key to quick cooking is the size and whether the pulse has been split. Split pulses cook faster because more surface area is exposed to the water.

Pro Tip:

To further speed up the cooking process, consider using an Instant Pot or pressure cooker. These appliances can significantly reduce cooking times for all types of pulses.