This leads to the next mistake -- cooking old lentils. You might assume that dry lentils pretty much last indefinitely.

A basic guide to legumes might help you understand lentils as a whole, but it won't tell you that there are actually five main types of this versatile food.

Cover the pan and cook until the lentils soften. You may have to top up the water if the lentils look dry but don't add too much, you don’t want to drain away any delicious juices later.