Aiva French Green Lentils Whole Dry lentils Natural Non GMO Vegan Gluten Free 4 Pound

French green lentils (Lens esculenta) are a highly sought-after variety of lentils that are firm and exceptionally good at holding their shape. They have a deep green color with a subtle mottled pattern and a robust, peppery flavor. Often regarded as the most desirable and delicate of the lentils, they originated in the volcanic soils of the Puy region of France, and are now grown in North America and Italy as well. The bushy, annual plant is a member of the legume family, growing about 16 inches tall with seed-producing pods. The dried seeds stored within those pods are the lentils themselves. After their dull-colored seed coat is removed, these vibrant, low-maintenance pearls are revealed to provide fast, easy cooking and quality nutrient supply. Lentils are part of a family of legumes, collectively known as pulses, which also includes dried peas and chickpeas. The lentil is one of the oldest cultivated legumes, even being mentioned in the Hebrew Bible. It is believed to be native to southwestern Asia and northern Syria. Unlike beans, lentils do not need to be soaked and therefore cook much faster. They are often paired with grains or rice to provide a complete protein. Rice and lentils make up the popular Indian dish "khichdi," as well as one of the national dishes of Egypt, "kushari." About a quarter of lentil production is from India, most of which is consumed by its domestic market. In addition to high protein and fiber content, the lentil is also packed with iron, zinc, potassium and magnesium and folate.