Chieftain^® Wild Rice Company

LENTILS, BLACK BELUGA

Description:

Black Beluga Lentil is the tiny, lens shaped seed of a small shrub.  Called the “caviar” of Lentils, these naturally vibrant Lentils glisten when cooked and look deceptively similar to Beluga Caviar.  Deliciously rich and earthy tasting, Black Beluga Lentils holds their shape after cooking and are well suited for salads, stuffing, stir-fry and soups.  Excellent as bedding for fish, poultry, wild game and pork.  Lentils do well with more assertive flavorings and absorb flavors well making them well suited for Eastern and Asian cuisines. Used in vegetarian cooking as a meat substitute, these tiny lentils are low in fat and high in protein and fiber.  Lentils have been eaten for over 8000 years and originated in Southwestern Asia along the Indus River.  Used often in pasta-based dishes and Mediterranean cuisine.  There is no need to soak lentils. 

Suggested Use:

Quick cooking and versatile, Lentils are an obvious choice for winter soups, salads, curries, pilafs, stuffing and stir-fry.  Mix with breadcrumbs and use to stuff peppers or eggplant.  Blend with couscous and use as a bed for grilled seafood or poultry.  Toss cooked and chilled Lentils and diced roasted vegetables with a little olive oil and season to taste.  Use in soups, stews, baked beans, stir-fry, spreads and dips.  Season with spicy chile peppers, fresh herbs, garlic or curry, add dried fruits or mint for a zesty flavor.