The main difference between lentils and beans is that lentils are smaller and flat disk-like whereas beans are large and oval or kidney-shaped. Further, lentils are biconvex seeds whereas beans are seeds that grow in long pods.
Lentils and beans are legumes that grow inside a pod. They are rich in proteins. Since both lentils and beans have a plant origin, they contain incomplete proteins. Based on the features of these grains when cooked, their culinary use may differ. Generally, beans tend to retain their shape when cooked when compared to lentils. Therefore, lentils are mainly used in soups.
Key Areas Covered
1. What are Lentils
– Definition, Facts, Uses
2. What are Beans
– Definition, Facts, Uses
3. What are the Similarities Between Lentils and Beans
– Outline of Common Features
4. What is the Difference Between Lentils and Beans
– Comparison of Key Differences
Key Terms: Beans, Incomplete Proteins, Legumes, Lentils, Size, Shape
What are Lentils
Lentils are the edible pulses that are flattened and biconvex seeds. Lentils differ in size, shape, and color. Some lentils are large and flat while the others are small and more rounded. Lentils are a good source of proteins and fiber. They are rich in calcium and vitamin A and B. They are sold with or without seed coat, whole or split. Lentils are a great substitute for meat. They can be used as the base for salads or simmered into soups.
The most common variety of lentils is the green or brown lentils. They have the seed coat and the inside is yellowish in color. French green lentils or Puy lentils have a strong flavor. Red or Egyptian lentils are small and round in shape. They are sold without the seed coat. Yellow lentils or dal are mostly used in India.
What are Beans
Beans are the edible seeds that are kidney-shaped and grow in long pods. The two main types of beans are red beans and white beans. Red beans include red kidney beans, pink beans, pinto, red beans, pea beans, black beans, etc. White beans are white kidney beans or cannellini, chickpeas, navy beans, Great Northern beans, etc. Beans are rich in complex carbohydrates, proteins, folate, and irons. They are also rich in soluble fibers.
Similarities Between Lentils and Beans
- Lentils and Beans are legumes.
- Both types of grains grow inside a pod.
- They are a source of incomplete proteins.
- They require very little fertilizer to grow.
- Both can be found in dried, canned, fresh, roasted or cooked versions.
Difference Between Lentils and Beans
Definition
Lentils: Edible pulses that are flattened and biconvex seeds
Beans: Edible seeds that are kidney-shaped and grow in long pods
Size
Lentils: Small
Beans: Comparatively large
Shape
Lentils: Flat disk-like
Beans: Oval or kidney-shaped
Significance
Lentils: Little difficult to keep the shape when cooked
Beans: Tend to keep the shape when cooked
Examples
Lentils: Brown/Spanish pardina, french green/puy lentils, green, black/beluga, yellow/tan lentils, etc.
Beans: Red beans and white beans
Conclusion
Lentils are small and flat while beans are comparatively large and kidney-shaped. Both lentils and beans are legumes that are rich in protein. The main difference between lentils and beans is the size and the shape.
Reference:
1. “Lentils.” Whfoods.com, Available Here
2. “Common Types of Beans.” REALSIMPLE, Available Here
Image Courtesy:
1. “3 types of lentil” (CC BY-SA 2.0) via Commons Wikimedia
2. “Red beans” By Zenia Nuñez (CC BY-SA 2.0) via Flickr
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