Eat more lentils

Photo by Yogesh Pedamkar on Unsplash

Description

Lentils are inexpensive and delicious legumes (peas and beans) that provide an excellent source of protein. They are versatile for many tastes and easily substitute for more carbon pollution-intensive animal protein in soups, curries, and other dishes.

Incorporating lentils into your diet has nutritional advantages. They are <a href='https://healthyeating.sfgate.com/advantages-lentils-over-beef-4364.html’>chock-full of vitamins, minerals, protein, and fiber.

Lentils also have an amazingly low carbon footprint relative to animal products. That is not their only environmental advantage. They also use much less water to grow than cows or chickens.

Lentils have a relatively neutral flavor and are amazing at absorbing the flavors of spices and other additions. The options are nearly endless!

Tips

• Most bulk food stores carry multiple varieties of lentils. Figure out which type you like best and buy them in bulk to save even more money and packaging.

• Take your favorite meat dishes and substitute lentils. They will add a whole new dimension. Black or brown lentils are ideal as a meat substitute. Have fun trying new dishes out!

• Red or yellow lentils are a great addition to many vegetable soups.

• Canada is the largest lentil producing country, growing about 40 percent of the world's lentils. Lentils are grown worldwide though, including North America, Europe, Asia, and North Africa. Check the label to find out where your lentils are produced, and choose the most local option where possible.