Lentils do not require it but can be soaked in order to reduce cooking time by about half. Before cooking, rinse lentils in cold water, pick over to remove debris or shrivelled lentils, then drain.

What happens if you don't soak lentils?

Although most recipes will tell you not to soak lentils and split peas, I always recommend doing so. It will greatly aid digestion and drastically reduce the cooking time.

Which lentils do not need to be soaked?

Green lentils are also known as French lentils. They cook beautifully, retaining their texture and a rich peppery flavour that complements meat and fish dishes and makes them the star of the show in salads. Green lentils do not need to be soaked and will take about 30 minutes to cook to tender.