Today, lentils are an almost forgotten product, which is occasionally pampered by exotic lovers and seekers of new taste sensations. However, it wasn't always like this...
Just some 150 years ago, lentils were the most important product on the table of most Russian people. Moreover, in those days, Russia was No. 1 in the world in the cultivation and export of lentils. But we, thanks to the total mechanization of agriculture, did our best and forgot about the centuries-old traditions of our people, after which we filled our diet first with potatoes, then wheat, and then Coca-Cola with Big Macs ...
Or, nevertheless, they didn’t forget, but wisely replaced them with more useful and hearty foods? It is unlikely ... After all, before lentils were loved not only by Russian people, but also by the Babylonians, Egyptians and even Greeks. Moreover, it was used not by some poor people or slaves, but by all segments of the population - up to the most noble gentlemen and kings!
In general, we believe that it's time to remember how useful lentils are, what dishes you can cook from them, and whether you should eat them at all.
Chemical composition
The benefits of lentils
Lentils are a whole product that humanity has not yet guessed to clone and modify for gene level. Harmful semi-finished products from lentils also do not yet exist. On top of that, lentils are simply not able to accumulate radionuclides and nitrates. So, from the point of view of naturalness, lentils are ideal.
Lentils are also useful because they contain a lot of vegetable protein, which helps to gain muscle mass safely for the cardiovascular system and kidneys.
In fairness, we note that the protein in lentils contains far from all amino acids, therefore, in terms of providing the body with the entire set of amino acids, rely solely on this product it is forbidden. True, this does not bother vegetarians, vegans, and even. And in general, not in vain, because lentils are not just a food product, but truly healing agent from the "bins" of nature.
Lentils can lower blood sugar levels (note for diabetics), saturate the blood with hemoglobin (due to the high iron content), and also prevent gastrointestinal diseases and genitourinary system. Even breast and rectal cancer is receding, "noticing" lentils on the horizon. Of course, it is difficult or even impossible to cure oncology with lentils alone, but as an aid in treatment, this is a great option.
At the same time, those cooks who, instead of boiling or frying this “groats”, will take and germinate it will get the greatest effect from eating lentils. The main thing, after that, is to thoroughly chew everything that was grown ...
Harm of lentils
Lentils, like all legumes, cause gas. Especially if you mix lentil porridge or stew with some carbohydrates (cereals, bread) or meat. If lentils are eaten without such additives, then gas formation will be moderate, if not completely noticeable.
But increased gas formation is not a harm, but an inconvenience. There are lentils and dangerous properties! These include the ability to heavily burden the stomach and kidneys, which leads us to the conclusion that lentils are harmful for people with diseased kidneys, suffering from gout and joint diseases.
In addition, lentils contain almost one and a half times more calories than Rye bread. So count it perfect product weight loss is difficult. Although compared to any type of meat, lentils are clearly safer for the figure.
Types of lentils
In our area there are at least 5 types of lentils:
- Green (French) - the least ripe product, ideal for salads and meat dishes
- Red (Egyptian)
- Black (beluga)
- Yellow is a shellless green lentil
- Brown (pardina)
Note that green, red, brown and yellow are four "facets" of the same lentil. Only at various stages of maturity. However, despite this, each type of lentil has its own characteristics, both in terms of composition and culinary properties.
In addition, lentils vary in size and are large (6-8 mm in diameter) and small (up to 5 mm in diameter).
Application in cooking
Today, lentils are used special respect German, Indian and Chinese chefs. However, in other countries experienced chefs with pleasure they take up the preparation of dishes from lentils. After all, the grains of this culture do not require pre-soaking, are very pliable and quickly cooked.
Lentils are annual plants of the legume family. It has been mentioned since Neolithic times. She was grown in Ancient Greece and Ancient Rome. The fruits of lentils have been repeatedly found in the ancient pyramids of Egypt and during excavations of civilizations with a thousand-year history. There is a mention of lentil soup in the Old Testament.
cultural history
Lentils are native to southern Europe and western Asia. The largest areas allocated for the cultivation of this crop are in Turkey, India, Canada and Iran. Other countries do not plant this plant in industrial scale. In Asia, being one of the most important sources of protein and having a good nutritional value, lentils can replace cereals, bread, and sometimes even meat.
What does a lentil look like? In appearance, some of its varieties do not resemble an agricultural crop, but rather a weed.
The stem winds and reaches 70 cm in length, the lentil leaf has a paripinnate regular, with a curl at the end. It blooms with small flowers up to 0.5 cm in diameter in late June or early July. After that, pods with 2-3 seeds are formed. The shape of the most common varieties of seeds is similar to "plates" with a sharp edge.
On a note! Depending on which variety is cultivated, the color of the fruits of a ripe lentil pod will differ.
However, what are lentils? This is quite a pretty annual plant. Even if it is grown in a zone of ecological pollution, it tends to always remain “clean”, since it does not accumulate radionuclides and nitrates. The main varieties are divided: Green, Red, Brown and Black. Such names come from the color of the plant's beans themselves.
Lentils
Beneficial features
Lentils are a storehouse of vegetable protein. It is very easily absorbed by the body and does not cause gas formation, unlike peas or beans. An additional benefit is that lentils replenish iron and folic acid. It is this acid that is involved in the formation of immunity, maintains the integrity of DNA and is responsible for cell growth. One serving of agricultural crop contains up to 90% of it daily dose necessary for a person. No other product can boast such a composition. Lentils are also high in fiber and carbohydrates. They perfectly improve digestion and make it impossible for the development of rectal cancer.
Important! Lentil porridge improves metabolism, improves immunity and restores normal work urinary system. And pre-soak this species legumes are not needed. They are superbly boiled, as indicated in any recipe, within 35-45 minutes.
The composition of lentils is rich, as in all legumes, with trace elements. First of all, it is magnesium, calcium, iron and phosphorus. Their action strengthens the nervous system and improves heart function. In order for the iron in this culture to enter the body and begin to act, you need to know what lentils are eaten with. Use with it red peppers or fresh tomatoes. Also, the conductor of iron in the body will become fresh herbs. For example, in India, the world's supplier of lentils, lentil dishes are generously sprinkled with parsley or cilantro.
The amino acid tryptophan, contained in lentils, is converted in the human body into serotonin, the hormone of joy. And since everyone knows that the lack of serotonin leads to despondency and depression, this problem can be easily solved by tasting lentil porridge.
Those suffering from urolithiasis are recommended to systematically use lentil decoction as a preventive measure. The isoflavones it contains help suppress breast cancer. And the plate-shaped form of lentils helps diabetics lower blood sugar.
In Chinese medicine, it is believed that the use of lentil soup, and even with spices, has an excellent warming effect, which becomes especially important in the cold season. So to achieve the desired result, it is extremely important to know what to eat lentils with.
Important! Despite the huge number of advantages, this culture can be harmful. It should not be used in the diet of those suffering from gout. This type of legume is also contraindicated for people with diseases of the stomach, intestines, pancreas and skin.
Describing lentils, experts noted that this culture does not accumulate harmful substances during growth. And possessing medicinal properties, as well as good nutritional value is a unique plant.
What does it look like
Lentil is a short plant, and its fruits in the form of pods have seeds - beans, the size of which, depending on the variety, can vary from 2 to 9 mm.
There are 4 main varieties of lentils on sale:
All of the listed types of lentils are found in free sale: both in supermarkets and in small shops. The most inexpensive of them is the brown variety, and the Beluga variety is expensive and elite.
Important! Yellow lentils do not exist in nature. Its yellow color is obtained during the heat treatment process, and initially these lentils are orange (other names are red or pink). It is obtained by peeling, that is, by removing the top layer of grain.
Answering the question whether lentils are legumes or not, scientists say the following. Crops that are eaten in the form of grains or beans are leguminous plants. These include peas, beans, lentils and soybeans.
By the way, nutritionists have proven that by constantly using legumes in your diet, you can get rid of excess weight. To do this, you need to eat 130 g of legumes (peas, chickpeas, beans or lentils) daily for 6 weeks.
How do lentils grow? It can endure a slight and short-term frost down to -5 ° C during the growth period of the plant. It is also fairly drought tolerant. For this, she should say special thanks to her highly fibrous root system. It can be concluded that lentils are an unpretentious plant.
Note! At the end of the 19th century, ordinary lentils saved the inhabitants from starvation tsarist Russia. For some period there was a terrible drought in the country and nothing but this agricultural crop was born.
Lentils, depending on the length of the stem, can grow up or spread along the ground. Food lentils look especially beautiful at the time of their flowering.
How to plant
The crop description states that lentils have varieties that are self-pollinating and those that are cross-pollinated. It is in the cross that bees participate. Of course, varieties of the first type are more in demand in terms of productivity. Since poor pollination with the help of bees can reduce the yield of lentils at times. Science has proven that the harvest collected after the pollination of a leguminous plant by bees is several times greater than the cost of honey and wax collected by them.
It should be noted that lentils by their nature are not a honey crop. And therefore it is very important that it is pollinating bees that flock to cross-pollination. Therefore, when planting cultivated agricultural plants, one should take into account the level of their honey content. Because not all cross-pollinated crops can be pollinated by honey bees. Accordingly, instead of tied pods, it will be quite possible to get an empty flower.
pollinator bees
- Popular varieties of lentils for lovers of lentils are the variety Anfiya, suitable for all growing areas. The period from sowing to ripening is on average 90 days. It is drought tolerant, rarely shatters and tolerates disease well. Smooth beans have green color. The content of vegetable protein reaches 31%.
- The Oktava variety is also suitable for all growing areas, but is a more early maturing variety. Beans mature in 60 to 80 days and grow up to 50 cm. It also does not lay down, does not crumble and is resistant to dry times.
- Variety Bride - mid-season. Ripens in 86-96 days from the date of sowing. It is undersized, reaching a maximum length of 35 cm. Resistant to pests, drought and shedding.
This crop is very fond of loose or mixed with clay or sand soil. It happens that it survives in more difficult soils, but in this case it does not bring a crop. Also, lentils do not like acidic soil. Before sowing it on the site, you need to process it with lime.
In order to increase the yield, this legume is best sown in open areas. sunlight. In shaded areas, it grows extremely poorly and brings a small yield.
Important! Lentils are very fond of those places where corn, potatoes or winter crops grew in the previous season.
To achieve good yields, it is not enough to decide on the landing site. It is worth thinking about fertilizing the soil. Potash and phosphate fertilizers will be extremely relevant here. You need to make them either before winter, digging up the ground, or in the fall before planting. Here, as they say, the master is the master. Fertilizers need 50 g per 1 m² of soil.
You can sow the crop in early spring, after the earth warms up 20 cm deep.
Starting sowing, you need to make small grooves up to 5 cm deep. The distance between them can withstand a maximum of 15 cm.
Seeding lentils
Further care
After germination, weeding is required, preferably at lunchtime of the day. Otherwise, tender lentil sprouts can “clog” weeds.
In the first 6 weeks of growth, a slow growing crop is gaining strength for the upcoming flowering. And only after that it grows and begins to branch, turning into fluffy shrubs. And already in the beginning of autumn harvesting is possible.
It should be taken into account that lentils, like all legumes, ripen unevenly. First you need to harvest from the lower level, and only later will the pods of the upper shoots ripen.
For all its survival, lentils require periodic watering in the first 6-8 weeks of their growth. Be sure to ensure that the earth does not dry out and is moistened as needed. And after the expiration of the specified time, it will be enough to water the plants twice a day.
If the gardener follows all the tips listed above regarding planting and care, and most importantly, the choice suitable variety, then the long-awaited harvest of legumes will not be long in coming!
Flat small grains - this is how lentil grains look, which are undeservedly not popular with Russians. This useful culture belongs to legumes along with peas and beans, therefore it contains a lot of protein, is full, suitable for vegetarian and dietary nutrition. Any person should know what is the harm and benefit of this plant.
What is lentil
The most ancient culture of all legumes is food lentils, because it is even mentioned in the Bible. Today in the world there are several lentil varieties differing in color, taste and texture. The benefits of this culture for humans are invaluable, because it is used in various fields - from cooking to traditional medicine. Harm from it is also possible, but insignificant, and with certain diseases.
Types of lentils
By color and other parameters, the following are distinguishedtypes of lentils:
- The green variety is not the most ripe beans that retain their shape when boiled. Used in the manufacture of salads, side dishes, treatment of hepatitis. Benefits green view with ulcers, pyelonephritis, cholecystitis, rheumatism and hypertension.
- Red look - more different piquant taste, used in the preparation of soups, mashed potatoes, boils quickly. Due to the content of protein and iron, it is beneficial for anemia.
- Brown appearance - has a bright nutty taste. Casseroles, soups are prepared from such grains (as in the photo). Its benefits are invaluable in the treatment of tuberculosis, other lung diseases, muscle and bone injuries.
- Black look - differs in small grains, similar to black caviar. Good for stomach health.
- french look- or puy, cultivated in the city of the same name in France, differs spicy taste and lack of digestion. It looks beautiful in the photo, it has a similar benefit to the green look.
Which lentil is healthier
After getting acquainted with the species, the question arises which lentils are more useful red or green. It can be answered as follows: this is one type of cereal, which has only differences in color and taste. At the red nutty taste it is more pronounced, while the green one is weaker, and so it is the same lentil - the obvious benefits and harms of which are the same.
What is useful lentils
Invaluable for nutritional properties the benefits of lentils for the body, because it stands out among all plant varieties. This is what lentils are for - the benefits and harms of which will be necessary for any person:
- mental balance support Have a good mood- due to the content of tryptophan, which calms the nervous system;
- cleaning vessels from harmful cholesterol, increasing hemoglobin levels, normalizing myocardial function, strengthening the heart muscle - due to the benefits in the form of magnesium, potassium, zinc, iron;
- ecological purity - does not absorb nitrates, toxins and radionuclides;
- immune support - sprouted grains are rich in vitamin C;
- anticarcinogen - inhibits the growth of cancer cells due to isoflavones from the group of phytoestrogens, which do not lose their benefits when heat treatment;
- normalization of blood sugar levels - benefits diabetics, is quickly absorbed by the body, replaces bread, cereals;
- heals burns, heals wounds, relieves pain urolithiasis- actively used in traditional medicine to help.
Lentils for weight loss
Lentils are actively used for weight loss, because they are considered a low-calorie dietary product. Its benefits per 100 g of the amount of product are as follows: 25% protein, 14% water, 54% light carbohydrates and 1% fat. By eating beans for food, a person receives the necessary protein, is quickly saturated and maintains a feeling of satiety for a long time. A diet with the use of lentil dishes reduces weight, normalizes common work a body that does not suffer from a lack of vitamins, minerals.
Lentils - benefits for women
Lentils - the important benefits and harms of which are familiar to many, have another important feature. It lies in the special influence of culture on female body. Herebenefits of lentils for women:
- contains a lot of starch natural sugars, omega 6 and 3, soluble fiber– improves digestion, prevents cancer;
- a serving of lentils contains almost 100% daily allowance folic acid, which benefits women during pregnancy for the formation of the fetus;
- boiled grains help in effective weight loss without harm;
- contains phytoestrogens that help without harm with menopause, failure of the hormonal system at any age;
- saturates the body with vitamins and minerals.
How to cook lentils
Easy to cook lentils, if you know some of the nuances. They may be indicated on the packaging with the product, but it is worth voicing them separately. First, the cereal is boiled, and then it is stewed or baked. Before boiling, it must be washed, put in boiling water and boiled over low heat. Constant stirring will keep the beans from sticking together so they keep their attractive appearance, favor, will look beautiful (as in the photo). The optimal proportions for cooking are 1.5 cups of water for 1 cup of cereal.
Are lentils soaked
Due to the need to fill the rest of the legumes with water, novice cooks may have a question,Do I need to soak lentils before cooking?. This is the advantage of cereals, which are ready for processing immediately. pre-soak, pouring cold water for the whole night it is not required to swell the grains - you just need to rinse the grains and pour them into the pan.
Lentil Dishes
Dishes with lentils differ in variety, which can be combined with vegetables, meat, spices and herbs. It is good to cook cereals in the form of cutlets with onions, carrots, garlic, mushrooms and spices. If you add cumin to the snack, then the harm from eating legumes is reduced. How to cook delicious food from lentils, prompt step by step recipes With detailed description and reviews.
Lentil porridge
Lentil porridge is considered an old Russian dish, which turns out amazingly tasty when mushrooms are added. You can combine cereals with pickled, salted, fresh or dried porcini mushrooms, but champignons are also suitable. Serve a hearty lentil treat with garlic, onion, sauerkraut and pickles. It will quickly saturate the body, bring benefits without harm.
Ingredients:
- white dried mushrooms - 100 g;
- lentils - 1.5 cups;
- onions - 3 pcs.;
- garlic - 3 cloves;
- butter - 40 g;
- cumin -5 g;
- cheese - 20 g;
- broth - 3 cups;
- milk - 2 cups;
- dried herbs- 10 g.
Cooking method:
- Mushrooms pour milk, after 2 hours squeeze, cut into strips.
- Cut 1 onion into cubes, the rest into rings.
- Melt the butter, fry the mushrooms with onion cubes until transparent, add the lentils. After 2 minutes, pour the broth, simmer until soft. Salt, season with pepper, herbs, crushed garlic.
- Cook until soft for about half an hour, sprinkle with grated cheese when serving.
Lentils with meat in a slow cooker
Lentils are cooked very tasty and quickly in a slow cooker, and the cereal will turn out to be of such a consistency that even a child or a child can eat it. old man. It is correct to take green grains for these purposes, which are less boiled than red ones - otherwise there is a risk of turning the dish from a crumbly consistency into a smeared porridge. The appetizer recipe goes well with fresh chopped herbs.
Ingredients:
- lentils - 2 cups;
- water - 2 glasses;
- pork - 450 g;
- champignons - 250 g;
- carrots - 1 pc.;
- onion - 1 pc.;
- yellow bell pepper- 1 PC.;
- tomato sauce - 30 ml;
- bitter red pepper - a pinch;
- Bay leaf- 1 PC.;
- cloves - 3 buds;
- savory - a pinch.
Cooking method:
- Set the frying mode, fry the chopped onion, meat slices in oil. After 15 minutes, add the plates of mushrooms, simmer for 10 minutes.
- Insert carrot bars, pepper strips, pour tomato sauce. Season with spices. After 5 minutes, add cereal, pour water.
- Set the rice or spaghetti mode, cook until the signal is given.
- Serve with fresh vegetables, garlic sour cream sauce, chopped herbs.
Green lentil soup with chicken
Every housewife will need information on how to cook lentil soup. This dish is perfect for hearty lunch, saturates the body quickly and tasty. All family members will be satisfied with the soup recipe, which will give strength and vigor to long time. You can use fresh chicken, smoked chicken legs, as well as other types of meat. It is optimal to serve soup with sour cream, the benefits of which are invaluable.
Ingredients:
- chicken - 700 g;
- water - 2.5 l;
- lentils - a glass;
- potatoes - half a kilo;
- carrots - 1 pc.;
- onion -2 pcs.;
- vegetable oil - 40 ml;
- tomato paste- 40 ml;
- garlic - 2 cloves.
Cooking method:
- Boil the broth on the chicken, cut the potatoes into cubes, send to the pan. After boiling send lentils.
- Coarsely grate the carrots, chop the onion, fry in oil until tender, mix with pasta.
- 10 minutes after laying the cereal, add the frying, boil, sprinkle with crushed garlic.
- Mix soup with chicken meat, cut into pieces, grind with a blender to a puree state.
- Sprinkle with herbs when serving.
Harm of lentils
If the benefits of cereals are obvious, then it is worth finding out whether lentils are harmful or not. Unfortunately, not everyone can take it because of the tendency to increased gas formation. People suffering from dysbacteriosis or other intestinal diseases are not recommended to eat the culture often, but it is better to refuse it completely because of the harm. Contraindications for taking beans also exist in those suffering from gout, constipation, and pancreatitis. It is necessary to carefully introduce cereals into the diet of a woman on breastfeeding, because flatulence can harm the baby.
If a person suffers from gastritis or other diseases of the stomach and liver, then lentils - the benefits and harms of which coexist on an equal footing, are contraindicated. It is digested for a long time, so you should not give the body a load and harm. It can only be eaten boiled, better mashed. Another factor of harm is the content of phytates, which reduce the absorption of nutrients. With prolonged use of lentils, you can lose calcium and iron. To prevent this from happening, it is useful to consult a doctor. He will also recommend how to prepare the culture without harm.
Check out other recipes too.
Video: Useful properties of lentils and contraindications
Lentils are one of the oldest cultivated foods. The Bible tells that the birthright was sold for a stew of lentils. Its grains were found in the buildings of the Neolithic period in Switzerland. In Egypt, the time of the pharaohs, bread was made from her flour, in ancient Rome she was famous as a medicine.
Useful properties and composition
In a nutshell, you can’t say about them. The vitamins and various elements that make up lentils (which we will discuss below) have the most beneficial effect on human body. So, protein is necessary for metabolism, and fiber normalizes the functioning gastrointestinal tract: relieves constipation, cleanses the intestinal wall of toxic waste, good for the skin. Potassium contributes to the work of cells, the normalization of water and acid-base balance.
For 100 grams of lentils you have:
- Potassium - 940 mg
- Calcium - 71 mg
- Phosphorus - 350 mg
- Iron - 11.1 mg
- - 0.41 mg
- - 0.27 mg
- - 0.93 mg
- Vitamin PP - 2.2 mg.
If you take 100 grams of lentils, then the content of valuable food components will be distributed as follows: - Proteins - 25 grams
- Fat - 1.6 grams
- Carbohydrates - 46.5 grams
- Ashes - 2.8 grams
- Water - 15 grams
- Total calorie content - 280 kilocalories
Did you know? Lentils hold the record for the content of boron, potassium, copper and iron.
When to use germinated
The benefits of sprouting are enormous. It strengthens the immune system and normalizes the activity of the central nervous system beneficial in bleeding. It is simply necessary in the diet of both adults and children, especially if they are more prone to frequent illnesses than others. Lentils will also benefit those suffering from arrhythmia and atherosclerosis, since lentil sprouts contain a lot of potassium, and the iron they contain increases hemoglobin and forms red blood cells. 
Generalized recommendations for eating sprouted lentils:
- Anemia
- Bleeding uterine
- Increased tendency to bleed blood vessels
- Protection against inflammation of the lungs and inflammation of the bronchi
- Treatment and recovery after colds
- Diseases of the digestive organs
- Heart diseases
- Bringing sugar levels back to normal
Important! It is necessary to store sprouted lentils in the refrigerator in a glass container, but not more than five days.
Benefit for health
The health benefits can hardly be overestimated, judge for yourself:
- For the most part, insoluble lentil fibers lower cholesterol levels, thereby reducing the risk of serious clinical diseases (brain and heart muscle infarction).
- Dissolving fibers slow down the penetration of carbohydrates and stabilize the level of sugar in the blood. Magnesium blocks calcium channels, relaxes the walls of blood vessels, which, in turn, improves the processes of blood transfer in the body.
- Folic acid, or rather vitamin B9, converts homocysteine into life-giving amino acids. With a lack of vitamin B9, the layer of cells lining the inner surface of the arteries is damaged. It also favors the healing of the nervous system and is needed for the synthesis of ribonucleic, deoxyribonucleic acid and red blood cells. With a deficiency of folic acid, cancer, heart disease, depression, age-related visual impairment, and hearing impairment are possible.
- It is exceptionally curative for pregnant women, as well as during lactation to eliminate iron deficiency.
- Excellent tool for weight loss. Lentil fiber, filling the stomach, reduces hunger, slows down the absorption of carbohydrates into the blood.
Now a few words about directly medicinal dishes. Lentil dishes should be eaten with a salad of tomatoes, fresh herbs and red pepper. In this case, magnesium, iron and molybdenum, which lentils are rich in, will be well absorbed by humans. 
The main dish of lentils and rice is majadara. It will enrich the body with serotonin, and it, in turn, will drive away bad mood and depression. All this is due to tryptophan - an amino acid, which is rich in lentils, it turns into serotonin in the body. Isoflavones, which can fight breast cancer, are preserved in canned and dried plants.
But lentil puree good to use if you are concerned about colic, duodenal ulcer or stomach. Lentil porridge is an excellent metabolism stimulant that can increase the protective properties of the body and is very favorable for the reproductive and urinary systems. True, you need to cook for 40 minutes (a little more than an hour), but it retains most of the beneficial minerals and vitamins, especially since lentil porridge tastes very pleasant.
Important! Pregnant women who consume 600 micrograms of folic acid daily reduce the chance of developing neural tube and digestive system pathologies in the fetus.
Harm and contraindications
This is generally a harmless product, but it also has its “downsides”. Lentils are not recommended for patients who have a history of gout, uric acid diathesis, diseases of the joints and the genitourinary system. It should not be eaten by those who have an abnormal gastrointestinal tract and pancreas, gallbladder.
Problems with the vascular-cardiac system. It should also be avoided by people suffering from hemorrhoids or having problems with urination. Those who have skin diseases should also be careful with its use, it is better to consult a doctor first. And the main recommendation that applies to everyone - no need to use lentils.
Types of lentils
There are many of them, but the most common ones are black, brown, green and red.
Black
Another name is black lentil "beluga". It is the smallest, but also the most expensive. Goes as an independent dish or in a salad. The black coloring substance has great antioxidant properties. It is recommended for inhibition of aging processes, prevention of cardiovascular and other dangerous ailments.
brown
most desired in culinary arts. Very popular in America. They cook from it vegetable soups with the addition of various herbs. Yes, this is actually a "soup" look. It is a bean that is already ripe (as opposed to still green) and combines all the best qualities taken from other species. All-encompassing view. Doesn't melt.
Green
Also called "French". Essentially unripe beans. Does not boil soft, good for salads and as a side dish. But, at the same time, it is the most healing type. "Heals" vegetable fiber, which she has a lot of, as well as the amino acid tryptophan. Therefore, it is very useful for people with problems in digestion and in the work of the intestines. In addition, it improves mood.
Red
Or Egyptian. It tastes unusually thin. It cooks the fastest and is taken when there is little time for cooking - 15 minutes and it's ready, though if you digest it a little, the beneficial properties will only increase. They love this dish in the East: from India to Egypt. It is used without skin, mashed potatoes, cereals, sauces, pates and soups are prepared.
Did you know? 14 grams of lentil fiber reduces the amount necessary for the body calories by 10%.
How to cook
The fruits of the described plant have been eaten since time immemorial. Brown has a subtle nutty flavor when cooked; it goes as an additive to stews, casseroles, and is used in salads. Red - known in the cuisines of Asia, because of the light seductive aroma, it is used in cooking Indian dishes. Flour is used to make cakes and bread. Consider some of the most popular cooking options.
- Pre-soaking is not required. The proportions are 3x1, where "3" is water, "1" is lentils.
- Boil water and place lentils in it.
- Then reduce the heat and continue cooking on a small one.
- Lentils - 250 grams, water - 4 cups, onions, carrots, sunflower oil, dill, salt, spices to taste.
- Grate the carrots fine grater, just chop the onion, and chop the dill very finely.
- Rinse the lentils and cover with water. After boiling, remove the foam and salt.
- Grated carrots (with chopped onion) fry on vegetable oil, throw dill there. Then place on the boiled lentils. Cook for 60 minutes.
Lentils - 200 grams; water - 2 liters; onion - 1 head; carrots - 1 piece; vermicelli - 40 grams; tomato paste - 2 tablespoons; basil - to taste; seasoning - 1 tablespoon; salt, sugar, pepper - to taste; raisins - 1 tablespoon.
- Soak lentils in cold water for 2-3 hours.
- Grate the carrots on a coarse grater, finely chop the onion. Then fry all this and add tomato paste, sugar and salt. Boil the lentils and place the “overcooking” on it. Then add "not thick" vermicelli and raisins. Let everything boil, after which it remains only to remove the foam, add basil, pepper, seasoning or bouillon cube. Boil for another seven to ten minutes.
Lentils - 200 grams; green onion- one bunch; cheese - 100 grams; garlic - 3 cloves; mayonnaise.
- Grate the cheese, finely chop the onion, crush the garlic.
- Boil lentils and stir together with cheese and onions, then add crushed garlic and season with mayonnaise.
Combination with other products
A good combination with sunflower oil and sour cream, herbs and starchy vegetables. Slightly worse compatibility with cream and butter, potatoes and cereals, with cereals, also with seeds and nuts.
Lentils are the most unique, most useful and undeservedly forgotten product. Probably, it was created by nature itself so that humanity could maintain health and longevity for as long as possible.
legume with interesting name- lentils - is a real storehouse of useful vitamins and minerals. Its use has a beneficial effect on the condition of both adults and children. Regular use allows you to cope with many diseases and replenish the energy reserves of the body. In this article you will find everything useful about this product - lentils, the benefits and harms for the body of women, men and children, how sprouted lentils are useful, calories, recipes for cooking with the product. And also a lot about lentil products - flour, oil and their areas of application.
From this article you will learn:
Lentils: Legume Overview
Food lentils, either ordinary or cultivated, are represented by a herbaceous plant that belongs to the legume family. from latin, lentils translated as Lens culinaris. It is considered an ancient agricultural crop. Widely used as a food and fodder plant.
Origin and countries of origin
As food, this culture has been used since ancient times. Beans are native to western Asia and southern Europe and were first tasted in southeastern Asia. Gradually, the beneficial properties of the plant became available to the whole world. The use of lentil-based stew has been repeatedly mentioned in Biblical legends.
Previously, the plant was recorded in Switzerland. Today it grows in the South-East of Europe and Asian countries. Huge plantations with a plant are fixed in India, Turkey, Iran and the central parts of Europe.
In Greece, Egypt, and Babylon, she was held in high esteem by the poor. Due to its nutritional properties, the plant has replaced both bread and meat. The nobles used it as a delicacy, and healers used it to heal people. In Russia, the first mention of culture was recorded in the 14th century. At that time, lentils were considered the main product on the table of every Russian.
For many years, it was Russia that was the main producer of beans. However, the demand for the crop was reduced as the potato spread.
Today, Asian countries, in particular China and India, revere this plant and use it as a staple. In Australia, lentils are the basis of many dishes, and in Germany they are a decoration of the Christmas table.
Botanical description of the plant and physical properties
lentil plant Lentils have a thin root. The height of its stem can vary between 15-75 cm.
The leaves are short-petiolate and paired, with antennae at their base. The leaves are paired, they are different oval shape and no more than 1 cm long. The peduncle is thick, at its base lies an axis.
Flowers, collected in brushes of several pieces, their length does not exceed 0.5 cm. The ovary is almost sessile. The main flowering period is June-July.
Beans are the main value, they are distinguished by a rhombic shape. They are used in cooking, medicine and cosmetologists, due to their unique composition.
Culture is different pleasant smell, which resembles peas. Upon contact with water, a fresh aroma is carried.
The main types and varieties of lentils
Lentils come in several varieties. The main types of plants are:
- brown;
- green;
- red or pink;
- French.
Photo: lentils - types and varieties The brown variety is the most common. In most cases, it is used to make soups. The green type is intended for salads and dishes based on meat products. Cooking the beans is easy, they do not require pre-soaking.
The red or pink variety is characterized by peeling, it does not have a shell. Thanks to this property, it is cooked within 10-15 minutes. In most cases, it is used for soups and purees.
French lentils are a special variety of culture. It was bred in France. Its main feature is incredible taste. It does not require the use of additional seasonings and spices. During cooking, a mild aroma spreads throughout the room. It is suitable for both first courses and casseroles.
Lentils benefit and harm
The benefits of lentils for the body lies in its nutritional composition. The plant is based on vitamins, trace elements and useful material that support the work of many organs and systems. The use of culture is appropriate at any age, due to a number of useful and healing properties.
Photo: lentils benefits and harms to the body Chemical composition: minerals and vitamins in lentils
The benefits of lentils for the body lies in its composition. The culture is based on a considerable amount of vegetable protein, which is perfectly absorbed by the body. positive action of this trace element, supplemented with amino acids and tryptophan. Lentils are the main source of iron and folic acid. The presence of soluble fiber has a positive effect on the body and improves the digestion process. Bean-based porridge can improve the general condition and normalize the functioning of the genitourinary system.
The basis of plant culture are the following trace elements:
- calcium;
- potassium;
- phosphorus;
- iron;
- manganese;
- copper;
- zinc.
Beans are rich in fatty acids, in particular Omega - 3 and Omega - 6. Lentils are considered good source vitamins of groups B, PP, C and A. Due to its nutritional properties, it can become a substitute for meat products and bread. The presence of tryptophan in the basis of beans allows you to normalize the work of the central nervous system. In the body, this component is converted into serotonin, which prevents the development of depression, anxiety and bad mood.
Nutritional value and calorie content of beans
100 grams of the plant contains about 14 g of liquid, 25 g of protein, 54 g of carbohydrates and 1 g of fat. This is enough to maintain normal human activity during the day. A small portion of beans gives saturation and replenishes energy losses. One serving of beans contains 90% of daily allowance folic acid.
Calorie content of lentils
The calorie content of the product is 116 kcal per 100 grams.
Useful properties of lentils for the body
Plant beans are highly nutritious. This is due to the impressive protein content, due to which the culture is widely popular among vegetarians. The benefits of lentils for the body lies in a powerful composition, represented by a whole complex of vitamins and trace elements. The positive properties of culture are:
- replenishment of deficiency of vitamins and microelements;
- improvement of the general condition;
- normalization of the digestive system;
- reducing the likelihood of developing depression;
- positive effect on the nervous system;
- nutrition and restoration of the skin.
The benefit of beans lies in their ecological cleanliness, they do not accumulate toxins and contribute to their removal from the body. For children, grains are also useful, they help accelerate growth and affect brain activity.
Photo: lentils benefits and harms However, with a huge number of pluses, not many people can use this culture. With gout, joint diseases and diathesis, it can lead to an aggravation of clinical manifestations. In the presence of severe problems with the digestive system, the plant can enhance fermentation processes and provoke a deterioration in the general condition. Refusing beans is necessary for people suffering from hemorrhoids and difficulty urinating.
Lentil benefit and harm are two components that closely overlap with each other. In order to avoid the development of unpleasant manifestations on the part of the body, it is not recommended to use the product in the presence of the above problems. The risk group includes people with kidney disease.
Benefits of Lentils for Men and Women
The benefits of lentils for women is to prevent the development of breast cancer. Regular use of the culture can reduce the likelihood of benign formations in the uterus. Another positive property is the ability to normalize the condition during menopause. For women of reproductive age, beans make it easier to endure premenstrual syndrome.
During pregnancy, the plant enriches the baby's body with nutrients and contributes to its normal development. Today, beans are widely used in the cosmetic industry, to restore the scalp and hair structure.
For men this plant is not less useful. Most representatives of the strong half of humanity are at high risk of developing problems with cardiovascular system. The use of grains can improve heart function and enrich the body necessary components. Lentils help lower cholesterol levels and normalize myocardial function.
Beans are widely used during weight loss. They allow you to accelerate the process of splitting adipose tissue, without losing muscle mass. The plant has a low glycemic index, which ensures that there are no sharp bouts of hunger and mood changes during weight loss.
Medicinal properties of lentils: medicinal recipes
The main positive feature is a high level of environmental friendliness, thanks to which the plant is considered safe. Regular use of it in food, allows you to remove toxins from the body. healing properties beans are:
- elimination of nervous disorders;
- treatment of urolithiasis;
- restoration of the cardiovascular system;
- normalization of sugar levels in diabetes;
- elimination of ulcers, colitis and other diseases of the digestive tract.
Grain-based dishes are good for blood formation, which is useful for people suffering from anemia. High level fiber helps improve bowel function and prevent constipation.
Grains are widely used in folk medicine in the form of decoctions, tinctures and ointments for the treatment of many diseases. To restore the skin from burns, lentil flour is mixed with butter and applied to the affected area.
Decoction based on grains - benefits for the liver. For cooking, you need 2 tbsp. l. beans and 300 ml of water. The ingredients are mixed and boiled over low heat for 10-20 minutes. After readiness and cooling, the decoction is taken orally.
Pea-based tinctures can cope with eczema. For cooking, a tablespoon of finely chopped grass is used, filled with a liter of water. The remedy is infused for 5-6 hours, then it is taken orally.
Contraindications for use
Grains are rich in purines. These natural substances have a positive effect on the body, but only if the person does not suffer from gout. An increase in the level of purines contributes to the deterioration of the general condition and provokes the progression of pathology.
The use of foods high in protein adversely affects the state of the urinary system. This fact must be taken into account for people suffering from kidney disease.
If you have bowel problems overuse grains can lead to flatulence and disruption of microflora. This effect is characteristic of many legumes.
Sprouted lentil beans
Beans in sprouted form are much more useful, they are based on a considerable amount of fiber. The use of culture allows you to saturate the body with the necessary vitamins and minerals, much faster. This is due to a sharp increase in their content in germinated form.
Sprouted lentils act as a powerful prophylactic. It helps to prevent the occurrence of influenza and acute respiratory diseases.
- prevention of anemia;
- restoration of the reproductive system;
- prevention of the development of diseases of the respiratory system;
- strengthening the cardiovascular system;
- restoration of energy reserves.
The culture is used in sprouted form in cooking. It is the basis of many soups and salads. Daily use this plant allows you to improve the general condition of the body.
The use of lentils in cooking
The use of lentils in cooking is due to the unique palatability. The brown type of plant is the most common. He is different quick cooking and pleasant nutty aroma. Red beans boil well and do not lose their shape, they are the best supplement to salads.
Photo: lentils use in cooking A variety of dishes based on grains, allows you to create a real masterpiece. Peas go well with fresh vegetables, meat products and hot spices. To uncover taste features boiled beans helps oil, onion and garlic. You can combine them with rosemary, celery and bay leaf.
Lentil flour
From the grains, a unique lentil flour is created, characterized by a mass positive properties. It is widely used in cooking high content easily digestible protein, which positively affects the organs of the gastrointestinal tract. Prepared with flour delicious tortillas, bread, mashed soups and even confectionery.
How to grow a culture at home
cultivation leguminous plants on your own summer cottage, it is not difficult. First you need to prepare the soil, it is desirable that it be freed from weeds. The site should be in a bright place, it is not necessary to additionally fertilize it.
Fruit is harvested from the bottom of the plant. The culture bears fruit unevenly. Beans can be eaten both in a mature and unripe form. They have a delicate taste.
How to properly store lentils
Photo: how to store lentils On average, the shelf life is 10 months. However, this indicator is influenced by many nuances. Fruit should be stored in a dark and dry place.
Beans are able to quickly capture moisture, which adversely affects their properties and shelf life. Do not place grains in glass containers and polyethylene. The optimal storage place is card boxes or bags made of natural fabric.
Creation of all necessary conditions, allows you to enjoy the plant for one year. After the specified period, it becomes unusable. As for boiled grains, optimal time storage in the refrigerator is 6 days. Frozen, they are suitable for use within six months.
Loading...