It all comes down to absorption, folks. Lentils are made up of complex carbohydrates, proteins, and fibers, which absorb water like a sponge. As they soak up the liquid, they start to swell and expand, kind of like a big, delicious balloon.
But here's the thing: not all lentils are created equal. Green and brown lentils tend to hold their shape and expand less than their red and yellow cousins, which can get really big and mushy. It's like they have different expansion personalities, and it's fun to experiment with each type to see what happens.
So, how much do lentils actually expand when cooked? Well, it's not an exact science, but a good rule of thumb is to assume they'll triple in size. That means if you start with one cup of dried lentils, you'll end up with about three cups of cooked goodness. It's like getting three cups of food for the price of one – what a deal!
How to Cook Lentils + 23 Easy Lentil Recipes
