How to cook red and yellow lentils

Place 250g/9oz/generous 1 cup red or yellow lentils in a sieve or strainer and rinse thoroughly under cold running water to remove any debris. Drain, and if you notice any tiny stones or grit, remove them.

Tip the drained lentils into a pan. Cover with 600ml/1 pint/21.2 cups water and bring to the boil. During the cooking process, the lentils will expand to two or three times their size.

3 Simmer for 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the water is absorbed and the lentils are smooth and creamy. Season to taste after cooking (if you season before, the lentils will become tough).