In this blog we are going to tell you about Difference between Beans and Lentils, so read this blog carefully to get the complete information.
Introduction
Known for being a major part of the nutritious legume family, beans and lentils are the great source for protein and essential vitamins with reduced fat content. People consider both as the substitutes of meat and other protein-containing foods that have small nutritional values.
What are Beans?
Beans form part of the legume family, which take a long time to cook. There is a variety of beans which differ in nutritional values as well as cooking time. It is to be noted that beans should be pre-soaked for about eight hours prior to cooking as failure to soak them may take a long time to cook and might consume more power. Of Course, cooking time of beans depends on the type and size of beans.
Beans contain more carbohydrates and less fiber when compared with lentils. Low content of fat makes beans a suitable addition to a dietary plan. With reduced sodium, calories and essential fatty acids, beans with oats and other grains provide more amino acids to make a perfect diet for vegetarians. Diabetic patients are advised to consume beans to a dietary plan as they do not cause a rise in blood sugar levels. You can add beans in many dishes including curries, soups and salads. Use it regularly and replace meat products completely due to sufficient protein amounts.
What are Lentils?
Lentils are small types of vegetables which have lens-like shape. Available in a broad variety, three types of lentils are the most popular: green, brown and red. Green lentils are often used for salad; brown ones are the least expensive and blend well in soups and the red lentils are fast to cook and often lose shape after being cooked. They contain more fiber and less carbohydrate as compared to beans.
The advantage of lentils is that they cook quickly and require no pre-soaking like beans. In addition, it is easy to store them after cooking as they can be found dry or prepared in cans. Even after losing color after a prolonged time, lentils do not lose their nutritional value and taste.
Differences between Beans and Lentils
- Definition – Beans are part of the legume family and they come in a plethora of varieties characterized by both the appearance and the nutritional values. They can be large, oval or kidney shaped. Lentils are the smallest members of the legume family, which come in varieties of green, brown and red.
- Nutritional Benefits – Both lentils and beans contain proteins and essential vitamins with low content of fat but beans have more carbohydrates and less fiber than lentils.
- Appearance – Beans are oval or kidney-shaped while lentils are generally small and lens shaped.
- Cooking Time or Method – Lentils do not require any pre-soaking as they cook in less time. You just need to pour them in a pot with water. Depending on the type of lentils, boil them for 15-20 minutes. Beans take a long time to cook if not pre-soaked. It is important to soak beans for about 8 hours before cooking so as to reduce the cooking time.
RELATED – How do Herbal Capsules Help with Weight Management?
Bottom Line
Both beans and lentils come in different types and in different colors. They have many health benefits with amazing nutritional values. You can easily replace meat as beans and lentils equally have a rich content of proteins and essential vitamins and fatty acids.
