Rinse the dried lentils under cold water
Pick out any debris or damaged lentils
Add lentils to a pot with water or broth
Use about 3 cups of liquid for 1 cup of lentils
Bring to a boil
Reduce to a simmer
Cover partially and cook until tender
Cook red lentils for about 15 to 20 minutes
Cook green or brown lentils for about 20 to 30 minutes
Cook black lentils for about 25 to 35 minutes
Stir occasionally and add more liquid if needed
Salt near the end of cooking
Drain any excess liquid if necessary
Season and serve