Rinse the lentils under cold water
Pick out any debris or damaged lentils
Soak if desired, especially for larger 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
Cook until tender
Stir occasionally
Skim off foam if needed
Add salt near the end of cooking
Drain excess liquid if necessary
Season and serve