What is the Difference Between Legumes and Lentils?
🆚 Go to Comparative Table 🆚Legumes and lentils are both types of edible seeds that come from the pod of a plant belonging to the Fabaceae family. While they share some similarities, there are key differences between them:
- Definition: Legumes are a broad category of plants that include beans, peas, and lentils. Lentils, on the other hand, are a specific type of legume with a lens-shaped seed.
- Structure: Legumes grow in pods and come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors. Lentils are lens-shaped legumes.
- Nutrition: Both legumes and lentils are high in protein and fiber. However, lentils are lower in calories and carbohydrates than other legumes.
- Usage: Legumes, including lentils, can be used in various dishes such as soups, stews, and salads. Lentils are a staple ingredient in many cuisines around the world.
In summary, legumes are a broader category of plants that encompass beans, peas, and lentils, while lentils are a specific type of legume with a lens-shaped seed. Both legumes and lentils are excellent sources of protein, fiber, and other essential nutrients, but lentils are lower in calories and carbohydrates than other legumes.
Comparative Table: Legumes vs Lentils
Legumes and lentils are both part of the legume family, which is a broad term that includes lentils, pulses, beans, and peas found in the Fabaceae family. However, there are some differences between the two:
| Legumes | Lentils |
|---|---|
| Legumes are the plants belonging to the Fabaceae family and are the leaves, stems, or pods of the plants. | Lentils are lens-shaped dried seeds of legumes and are a part of the legume family. |
| Legumes include beans, peas, and lentils. | Lentils come in three popular varieties: green, brown, and red. |
| Legumes are nutrient-dense, rich in dietary fiber, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. | Lentils are a good source of fiber, proteins, and low in fat and cholesterol. |
In summary, legumes are a broader term that encompasses all types of beans, peas, and lentils from the Fabaceae family, while lentils are a specific type of legume that comes in lens-shaped seeds and can be green, brown, or red. Both legumes and lentils are nutrient-rich and can be a healthy addition to various meals.
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