Chieftain^® Wild Rice Company

LENTILS, RED CHIEF

Description:
Red Chief Lentils are the tiny, lens shaped seed of a small shrub.  Red Chief Lentils are one of the most common types of lentils.  Red Chief Lentils are deep orange to rich red in color with a mild, earthy flavor and soft texture.  Red Chief Lentils are more of a medium size, quick cooking lentil about ½ to ¾ cm.  When cooked they hold their shape and since they are mild in flavor they do well with more assertive flavorings. Used in vegetarian cooking as a meat substitute, these tiny lentils are low in fat and high in protein and fiber.  A staple food for many South Asian cultures, lentils have been eaten for over 8000 years and originated in Southwestern Asia along the Indus River.  There is no need to soak lentils.

Suggested Use:

Grilled swordfish with lentils and spicy red onion, Red Lentil salad, Red Lentil soup, curried Red Lentils, Red Lentils and lamb, Lentils and wild rice soup, and Lentil chili are just a few of the unique and colorful recipes options available for this versatile lentil. Season Red Lentils with spicy chile peppers, fresh herbs, garlic or curry, add dried fruits or mint for a savory taste. Toss cooked and chilled Red Lentils and diced roasted vegetables with a little olive oil.

Substitutes: Yellow, green or brown Lentils.