Boiled LentilsVSRaw Lentils

Comparing different preparation states of Lentils

Boiled Lentils

Plant
May lack some essential amino acids. Good to pair with variety.
Legumes and Legume Products USDA #172421
Protein9.0g
Cals
116
Fat
0.4g
Carbs
20.1g

Raw Lentils

Plant
May lack some essential amino acids. Good to pair with variety.
Legumes and Legume Products USDA #172420
Top Protein
Protein24.6g
Cals
352
Fat
1.1g
Carbs
63.4g

Nutritional Comparison Summary

When comparing Boiled Lentils and Raw Lentils, there are notable nutritional differences that can influence your dietary choices. Raw Lentils contains 15.6g more protein per 100g serving, representing a 173% difference in protein content. With 24.6g of protein, Raw Lentils is the superior choice for those prioritizing protein intake. For those watching their calorie intake, Boiled Lentils offers only 116 calories per 100g compared to 352 calories in Raw Lentils. In terms of protein efficiency (protein per calorie), Boiled Lentils delivers more protein for fewer calories, making it an efficient protein source.

Best For Your Goals

Muscle Building & Recovery

Raw Lentils

With 24.6g of protein per 100g, Raw Lentils provides the higher protein content needed to support muscle protein synthesis, post-workout recovery, and lean muscle maintenance.

Weight Loss & Calorie Control

Boiled Lentils

At only 116 calories per 100g, Boiled Lentils allows you to maintain a calorie deficit while still getting essential nutrients, making it ideal for weight management and fat loss goals.

Maximum Protein per Calorie

Boiled Lentils

Boiled Lentils offers the best protein-to-calorie ratio, delivering 9.0g of protein for just 116 calories, perfect for maximizing protein intake while minimizing caloric load.

Vegetarian & Plant-Based Diets

Raw Lentils

Both are excellent plant-based options. Raw Lentils edges ahead with 24.6g of protein per serving, making it slightly better for meeting daily protein requirements on a vegetarian diet.

Low-Carb & Ketogenic Diets

Boiled Lentils

With only 20.1g of carbohydrates per 100g, Boiled Lentils fits perfectly into low-carb and ketogenic meal plans while providing substantial protein to maintain muscle mass during carb restriction.

General Fitness & Balanced Nutrition

Raw Lentils

For everyday fitness enthusiasts seeking balanced nutrition, Raw Lentils offers a good protein content at 24.6g with 352 calories, fitting well into most active lifestyle meal plans.

Key Differences

Protein Gap
15.6g
173% difference
Calorie Gap
236
203% difference
Fat Gap
0.7g
Carb Gap
43.2g

Category Winners

💪
Most Protein
Per 100g serving
Raw Lentils
📉
Lowest Calories
For weight loss
Boiled Lentils
Best Efficiency
Protein per calorie
Boiled Lentils
Source: USDA FoodData Central • Data as of 2026-01-05