Anyone who has tried lentils before knows just how delicious they are. They are not only delicious but also very nutritious. You can purchase brown lentils almost everywhere at a very low price. French lentils, however, are not always available and can be expensive.
So, what can you use instead of French lentils? Are there foods that can be as sweet and nutritious as French lentils?
Well, we have conducted research and have come up with a list of alternatives for French lentils. These are foods that can work in the same manner, or maybe close to French lentils. Here we go!
Substitute for French Lentils
Let’s go straight to some of the most efficient substitutes;
1. Peas
There are different varieties including green peas and yellow peas. Fortunately, any of these would be a great substitute. Using peas in place of lentils gives you almost the same taste. But that’s not all. Just like lentils, peas have high levels of protein, and low levels of sodium, and they also contain some antioxidants.
You can use canned chickpeas to replace French lentils in salads, soups, as well as curries.
2. Beans
Beans and lentils are from the same legume family. They are somewhat of an obvious alternative for lentils. Beans and French lentils are similar in that they have higher levels of protein, dietary fiber, folate, antioxidants, and more vitamins needed by our bodies.
What’s more, you can choose from a wide range of beans based on your recipe. To make some lentil tacos, for instance, you can choose to use refried beans to replace the lentils that would also replace taco meat.
Red beans and garbanzo beans are also great substitutes for French lentils.
3. Soy
Soy can also be a great substitute for French lentils. They especially work well when you want to replace lentils that worked to replace meat in vegetarian recipes. If you wanted to prepare a recipe that needed chicken or ground beef, French lentils would work perfectly. However, if you do not have lentils, soy can be a great alternative.
But that’s not all. Soy will give your body amino acids and proteins that you would get from soy. This is an amazing protein source. They are also easy to use.
4. Peanuts
Peanuts are similar to lentils in that they are great sources of nutrients and dietary fiber. What’s more, they are filling and will work great in salads.
5. Kamut
This is also known as Pharaoh Grains or Khorasan wheat. It is a great source of protein that would work great in replacing French lentils in a wide range of dishes. Kamut is more similar to white lentils in appearance with a range of flavors. However, you can expect that they will work perfectly in replacing French lentils too.
6. Brown Rice
Brown rice is a great replacement for brown rice, especially for casseroles and soups. It can thicken these dishes and mimic the results of French lentils.
Additionally, it has high levels of fiber and nutrients. To make things better, it is easier to acquire compared to French lentils. So, whenever you are out of French lentils, you can find some brown rice to do the trick.
7. Tofu
Tofu is a great alternative to French lentils for a couple of reasons. First, if you want a plant-based diet, then this will be a perfect choice. It can absorb flavors well, which means that you can use different seasonings in your recipe.
Additionally, tofu has low levels of calories and high protein levels. This versatile food has a mild flavor coupled with a firm texture.
If you choose to use tofu to replace lentils, make sure it is extra firm. It has low water levels and will maintain its texture once cooked.
Other Alternatives
-
Textured Vegetable Protein
Textured vegetable protein is made using soy powder. We love that it is also very easy to make at home, as long as you can find some soy. This is a great nutritious choice if you want a replacement for French lentils.
-
Fish
Fish also gives you high levels of protein. This is a higher-quality protein. It also has lower levels of unsaturated fats. But what fish should you use? Well, there is a variety you can choose from these including salmon, herring, or even tuna.
One other reason why fish would be a better choice is the fact that it has omega-3 fatty acids that cannot be found in lentils. These will work perfectly to reduce the chances of heart disease.
Are Green Lentils and French Lentils the Same?
We have been asked whether these two are the same. Since we are talking about French lentils, we thought it’s better to clear the air.
French lentils are a type of green lentil. The difference between the two is that French lentils are smaller and have a darker huge.
Also, read: Difference Between Pardina Lentils and Lentils
Conclusion
Now you know what you can use instead of French lentils. Therefore, if you do not have some French lentils at your exposal, simply go for any of the foods we have listed above. You can choose the alternative based on taste, appearance, or even nutritional value.
