Are Lentils Healthy, and Can You Eat Them Raw?

A bag of dry lentils is one of those foods you buy with good intentions. Then you find it in your pantry weeks later and realize you have no idea what to do with it. You could throw some in soup, but it's too hot for that. Could you eat them raw? But is that even safe? No, it's not safe to eat lentils raw! Here's why: Lentils are legumes—cousins to beans, chickpeas, soybeans and peanuts. Raw lentils contain a type of protein called lectin that binds to your digestive tract. This can result in a variety of toxic reactions, such as vomiting and diarrhea. Luckily, lectins break down into more digestible components when they're cooked! To cook them, simply add 1 cup of lentils to 3 cups of water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until they are tender, which will take about 15-20 minutes. It's a simple as that!