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Black Beluga Lentils
Legumes
Nutri-ScoreA

Black Beluga Lentils

Lens culinaris

Clinical Encyclopedia

SM
Nutri-Score & Health Summary

Black Beluga Lentils provides 353 kcal, 25.8g of protein, 60g of carbohydrates, and 8.9g of fiber per 100g. With a Nutri-Score grade 'A', it is a highly recommended option for nutrient density.

Black Beluga lentils are small, shiny, and black legumes that resemble caviar. They are rich in protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making them a nutritious addition to various dishes.

Also known as:
Beluga LentilsBlack Lentils
Scientific NameLens culinaris
Region of OriginMiddle East

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories353 kcal
Water
10%
Fiber8.9g
Total86.8g
Protein
25.8g(30%)
Fats
1g(1%)
Carbohydrates
60g(69%)

Micronutrient DV% Score

Top vitamins and minerals ranked by percentage of Daily Recommended Value

Vitamins (DV%)
Minerals (DV%)

Complete Micronutrient Breakdown

Detailed concentration of essential micronutrients per 100g serving.

Vitamins

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Vitamin E0.5 mg (3%)
Vitamin K2 µg (2%)
Vitamin b1 (thiamine)0.3 mg (25%)
Vitamin b2 (riboflavin)0.1 mg (6%)
Vitamin b3 (niacin)2.6 mg (16%)
Vitamin b5 (pantothenic acid)0.6 mg (12%)
Vitamin b6 (pyridoxine)0.2 mg (12%)
Folate479 µg (120%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DV
Vitamin A: 0 µgVitamin C: 0.5 mgVitamin D: 0 µgVitamin B12: 0 µgCholine: 0 mg

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Calcium18 mg (2%)
Iron3.3 mg (18%)
Magnesium36 mg (9%)
Phosphorus280 mg (40%)
Potassium677 mg (14%)
Zinc1.3 mg (12%)
Copper0.5 mg (25%)
Manganese0.5 mg (25%)
Selenium2.5 µg (5%)
Minerals with less than 2% DVNone registered

Health Benefits

High in protein and fiber, Black Beluga lentils support digestive health and help maintain a feeling of fullness, which can aid in weight management.
Rich in antioxidants and minerals, they contribute to heart health and may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!No clinically significant precautions or contraindications have been documented for this food in standard dietary intake.

How to Prepare & Consume

Rinse lentils thoroughly before cooking. They can be boiled, added to soups, or used in salads. Soaking is not necessary but can reduce cooking time.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose lentils that are uniform in color and free from debris or damage.

How to Store

Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place to maintain freshness.

Medicinal Profile & Bioactive Compounds

Therapeutic properties, key bioactive compounds, and clinical applications of this food.

Medicinal Properties
AntioxidantAnti-inflammatory
Main Applications
Nutritional supplement in vegetarian diets
Heart health support
Bioactive Compounds
Anthocyanins

Compounds that provide antioxidant properties and may help reduce inflammation.

How to Consume
Cooked, Soups, Salads
Did you know?

"Black Beluga lentils are named for their resemblance to caviar and are often used in gourmet dishes."

Myths vs Realities

MythLentils cause gas.
RealityWhile lentils can cause gas in some individuals, proper cooking and soaking can minimize this effect.
MythAll lentils are the same.
RealityDifferent types of lentils have unique flavors, textures, and nutritional profiles.
MythYou can't eat lentils if you're on a low-carb diet.
RealityLentils are a good source of complex carbohydrates and can be included in moderation.

Healthy Recipes

Spicy Black Beluga Lentil Salad

A vibrant and zesty salad featuring black beluga lentils, fresh vegetables, and a spicy lime dressing, perfect for a nutritious lunch.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked black beluga lentils
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large bowl, combine cooked black beluga lentils, red bell pepper, cucumber, red onion, and cilantro.
  2. 2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Pour the dressing over the lentil mixture and toss gently to combine. Serve chilled.

Black Beluga Lentil Soup with Spinach

A hearty and nutritious soup made with black beluga lentils, fresh spinach, and aromatic spices, perfect for a cozy dinner.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup black beluga lentils
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large pot, sauté onion, carrots, and celery until softened.
  2. 2. Add garlic and cumin, cooking for an additional minute before adding black beluga lentils and vegetable broth.
  3. 3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes. Stir in spinach and cook until wilted. Season with salt and pepper.

Black Beluga Lentil and Quinoa Bowl

A protein-packed bowl featuring a blend of black beluga lentils and quinoa, topped with roasted vegetables and a tahini dressing.

Ingredients
  • 1/2 cup black beluga lentils
  • 1/2 cup quinoa
  • 1 zucchini, diced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons tahini
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Cook black beluga lentils and quinoa according to package instructions.
  2. 2. Toss zucchini and bell pepper with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast in the oven at 400°F for 20 minutes.
  3. 3. In a bowl, combine lentils, quinoa, and roasted vegetables. Drizzle with tahini and lemon juice before serving.

Black Beluga Lentil Tacos

Delicious and healthy tacos filled with seasoned black beluga lentils, topped with avocado and fresh salsa for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked black beluga lentils
  • 1 teaspoon taco seasoning
  • 4 corn tortillas
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • 1/2 cup fresh salsa
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. In a skillet, heat cooked black beluga lentils with taco seasoning until warmed through.
  2. 2. Warm corn tortillas in a separate pan or microwave.
  3. 3. Assemble tacos by filling tortillas with lentils, avocado slices, and fresh salsa. Garnish with cilantro.

Mediterranean Black Beluga Lentil Bowl

A flavorful bowl combining black beluga lentils, cherry tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese, drizzled with a balsamic glaze.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked black beluga lentils
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
  • 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
  • Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, combine cooked black beluga lentils, cherry tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese.
  2. 2. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and toss gently to combine.
  3. 3. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Black Beluga Lentil and Sweet Potato Hash

A hearty breakfast hash featuring black beluga lentils and roasted sweet potatoes, topped with a poached egg for added protein.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked black beluga lentils
  • 1 large sweet potato, diced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 2 eggs
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Toss diced sweet potato with olive oil, paprika, salt, and pepper, then roast for 25 minutes.
  2. 2. In a skillet, combine roasted sweet potatoes and black beluga lentils, heating through.
  3. 3. Poach eggs and serve on top of the lentil and sweet potato hash.

Black Beluga Lentil Curry

A rich and flavorful curry made with black beluga lentils, coconut milk, and a blend of spices, served over brown rice.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup black beluga lentils
  • 1 can coconut milk
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon curry powder
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • Salt to taste
  • Cooked brown rice for serving
Instructions
  1. 1. In a pot, sauté onion and garlic until translucent. Add curry powder and cook for another minute.
  2. 2. Stir in black beluga lentils, coconut milk, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
  3. 3. Season with salt and serve over cooked brown rice.

Black Beluga Lentil Stuffed Peppers

Colorful bell peppers stuffed with a savory mixture of black beluga lentils, rice, and spices, baked to perfection.

Ingredients
  • 4 bell peppers, halved and seeded
  • 1 cup cooked black beluga lentils
  • 1/2 cup cooked brown rice
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 cup marinara sauce
  • 1/4 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat oven to 375°F. In a bowl, mix cooked lentils, brown rice, Italian seasoning, and marinara sauce.
  2. 2. Stuff each bell pepper half with the lentil mixture and place in a baking dish.
  3. 3. Top with shredded cheese if desired, cover with foil, and bake for 30 minutes.

Black Beluga Lentil and Kale Stir-Fry

A quick and nutritious stir-fry featuring black beluga lentils, kale, and colorful vegetables, perfect for a weeknight dinner.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked black beluga lentils
  • 2 cups kale, chopped
  • 1 bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 carrot, julienned
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large skillet, heat sesame oil over medium heat. Add bell pepper and carrot, sautéing until tender.
  2. 2. Stir in kale and cooked black beluga lentils, cooking until kale is wilted.
  3. 3. Add soy sauce and toss to combine. Garnish with sesame seeds before serving.

Black Beluga Lentil Burgers

Delicious and hearty lentil burgers made with black beluga lentils, oats, and spices, served on whole-grain buns with fresh toppings.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked black beluga lentils
  • 1/2 cup rolled oats
  • 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Whole-grain buns
  • Lettuce, tomato, and avocado for toppings
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mash cooked black beluga lentils and mix in oats, onion, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper.
  2. 2. Form mixture into patties and cook in a skillet over medium heat until browned on both sides.
  3. 3. Serve on whole-grain buns with lettuce, tomato, and avocado.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Are Black Beluga lentils gluten-free?

Yes, Black Beluga lentils are naturally gluten-free.

How long do Black Beluga lentils take to cook?

They typically take about 20-25 minutes to cook.

Can I eat Black Beluga lentils raw?

No, they should be cooked before consumption.

What are the health benefits of Black Beluga lentils?

They are high in protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, supporting overall health.

How should I store Black Beluga lentils?

Store them in a cool, dry place in an airtight container.

Can Black Beluga lentils help with weight loss?

Yes, their high fiber content can help you feel full longer, aiding in weight management.

Are Black Beluga lentils good for heart health?

Yes, they are rich in antioxidants and can help lower cholesterol levels.

What dishes can I make with Black Beluga lentils?

They can be used in salads, soups, and as a side dish.