What are some types of lentils?

Some common types of lentils include green, brown, yellow, red and black. Black lentils, also called beluga lentils, are small, firm lentils often added to salads while still cold. They look similar to caviar, with the same spherical shape.

Yellow and red lentils are good for soups and stews since they often break down while cooking. A popular dish using these types of lentils is Indian lentil stew with rice. It takes about 20-25 minutes to cook them. Brown lentils are very common in the U.S., taking about 20 to 30 minutes to cook. They are often added to soups as well. Green lentils are among the largest types of lentils and have a mild flavor. They taste good with oil, vinegar and fresh herbs.