What is the Difference Between Red and Green Lentils

The main difference between red and green lentils is that the red lentils are split into halves and they do not contain their outer covering while the green lentils are the whole lentils (non-split) and contain the outer covering. Hence, red lentils take less time to cook while green lentils take comparatively a long time to cook. Another difference between red and green lentils is that red lentils have a nutty flavor and are unable to retain their shape after cooking while green lentils have a peppery flavor and keep a firm texture after cooking. 

Red and green lentils are two forms of lentils, which are edible seeds with a flattened and biconcave shape. They are a rich source of proteins and fiber. 

Key Areas Covered 

1. What are Red Lentils
     – Definition, Texture, Culinary Use
2. What are Green Lentils
     – Definition, texture, Culinary Use
3. What are the Similarities Between Red and Green Lentils
     – Outline of Common Features
4. What is the Difference Between Red and Green Lentils
     – Comparison of Key Differences

Key Terms 

Cooking Time, Flavor, Green Lentils, Red Lentils, Texture

What are Red Lentils 

Red lentils are orange-to-red color lentils, usually available split. They are the sweet lentils used in the Middle Eastern and Indian dishes. They become mushy when cooked. Therefore, red lentils can often be used for thickening soups. The cooking time taken by red lentils is around 30 minutes.  

Figure 1: Red Lentils

Yellow lentils are the other variety of lentils similar to red lentils. They are also sold after splitting. They have a similar texture to red lentils after cooking and can add a bright color to dishes. 

What are Green Lentils 

Green lentils are the gray-green color lentils usually available as whole (non-split). This means green lentils come with the seed coat. Therefore, they take a comparatively long time for cooking when compared to red lentils. The exterior of the green lentils is orange in color. The flavor of green lentils is earthy. Green lentils keep their firm texture after cooking.  

Figure 2: Green lentils

Dried, green lentils do not contain fat. Moreover, green lentils can be sprouted and added to salads.  

Similarities Between Red and Green Lentils 

• Red and green lentils are two types of lentils. 
• Both are edible legumes and they have a flat, biconcave shape. 
• Also, both are rich in proteins, fiber, calcium, vitamin A, and B. 
• As they are rich in proteins, they are a good substitute for meat. 
• They can be added to salads and soups. 

Difference Between Red and Green Lentils 

Definition 

Red lentils refer to the orange to red color lentils, most commonly used in Middle Eastern and Indian food dishes while green lentils refer to gray-green color lentils with a firm texture. 

Whole or Split 

Red lentils are usually available in the split form while green lentils come with their seed coats.

Time Required to Cook 

Red lentils take less time to cook (around 30 minutes) while green lentils take comparatively long time to cook (around 45 minutes). 

Flavor and Texture 

Another difference between red and green lentils is that red lentils have a nutty flavor and are unable to retain their shape after cooking while green lentils have a peppery flavor and keep a firm texture after cooking. 

Culinary Use 

Red lentils are cooked as dhal, baby food, soups, and casseroles while green lentils are used in warm salads, side dishes, stuffing, and casseroles. 

Conclusion 

Red lentils are the split lentils mainly used in Middle Eastern and Indian dishes. They take around 30 minutes to cook. Red lentils become mushy when cooked and have a sweet flavor. On the other hand, green lentils come with the seed coat. Therefore, they take a longer time to cook. Green lentils have a peppery flavor and firm texture when cooked. Therefore, the main difference between red and green lentils is the flavor and texture after cooking.  

Reference:

1. Martinac, Paula. “Types of Lentils and Protein Value.” Healthy Eating | SF Gate, 11 June 2018, Available Here

Image Courtesy:

1. “Red lentils Gogreen” By Tiia Monto – Own work (CC BY-SA 4.0) via Commons Wikimedia  
2. “Green Lentils” By Adiel lo – Own work (CC BY-SA 3.0) via Commons Wikimedia