Lentils are an indispensable staple in many diets around the world, particularly the Middle East and India. Packed full of protein, fiber, folate and antioxidants – including methionine and cysteine which promote muscle growth – lentils provide essential nutrition. Their rich source of calcium magnesium potassium zinc also provide essential elements for poultry. They are an ideal source of phosphorus to build strong bones and teeth as well as methionine cysteine found in them which encourage muscle health growth; their high fiber content promotes optimal digestion while feeding good bacteria in their intestinal tract.
Cook lentils before offering them to your flock. A great way to do this is by adding them to soup, stew or salad; once cooked mash the lentils into a thick porridge-like consistency before offering as food.
Cooked lentils can also make an ideal treat or supplement feed for your chickens – just be mindful of serving too many at one time as they contain high caloric intake and should not serve as their main source of nutrition.
Can Chickens Eat Raw Lentils? Yes, though these raw lentils won’t provide as much nutrition. If you opt for the latter route, make sure they have been washed and thoroughly drained prior to giving them to your birds and allow for at least 15 minutes of boiling time before offering as food.
If you’re in search of an exciting recipe to try this New Year’s Eve, why not give cotechino con lenticchie (an Italian pork sausage with lentils) a try? Traditionally eaten as part of celebrating good fortune and prosperity! This dish can only bring good fortune!
Lentils can be purchased at virtually any grocery store; however, to find the widest selection and the lowest prices it’s advisable to shop your local farmer’s markets or natural food stores for farmer-sellers market or bulk bin purchases of lentils.
Dried lentils can be stored for two or three years in an airtight container and six months when frozen; they also taste best when consumed within a year of opening!
Growing lentils from scratch is possible and manageable; seed can be planted directly in your garden or raised beds and they’re relatively straightforward to care for and manage. Beans make an excellent addition to any compost pile or soil amendment, providing nitrogen back into the ground and helping keep soil fertile. Beans can also be grown indoors using a seed-compost filled tray and regular watering. By adding vermiculite or perlite to the soil, adding layers of vermiculite or perlite can enhance drainage and facilitate growth. When rotating trays to ensure all receive equal sunlight and moisture. You could also try pre-soaking seeds for 24 hours prior to planting, covering them with another layer of seed-compost, then watering again afterwards.