We are still waiting for spring and it seems that February needs its last grand stand. Let’s make the best of it with a bowl of bone warming lentils or beans. Yes, the crockpot is one method; however, I can taste the difference between a good pot of lentils or beans cooked on the stove vs. a crockpot of lentils or beans. There are so many choices: French lentils; European lentils; classic red beans; black beans; black-eyed peas; split peas (Chickpeas); navy beans; and Great Northern beans. Some prefer to soak dried beans overnight. That is very time consuming. Rinse and comb through dried lentils and beans prior to cooking. In all of my years of cooking, I have only found rocks (pebbles) two times. All it takes is one time to break a tooth… After rinsing the lentils or beans, begin this protein choice in cold water on the stove. You will probably need to add more water later. I prefer spring water to tap water. After bringing it to a boil, add the salt and reduce the heat.  Some prefer to add pepper and some prefer to add a tiny dash of sugar to pull the flavors together. Butter is suggested, too. Cook and stir the lentils or beans frequently on a low heat. Lentils or beans will burn if left too long on the flame, with no liquid, so it is necessary to “baby sit” the batch. (Meaning never leave the house while cooking a pot on the stove.) Lentils are good the next day, too, if refrigerated overnight. Just add more water, as needed, when reheating. Lentils and beans should be paired with a good bread choice, too. I prefer cornbread. Some prefer Naan bread. Some prefer rice. To accompany, I make a fast cornbread with 2 packages of 7 oz. cornbread mix, with a little less milk than suggested on the packages. Instead add ¾ can of 14.75 oz. creamed corn. You will need 2 eggs. Also, add an 8 oz. package of shredded Colby or Cheddar cheese. Bake the mixture for about 45 minutes at 425⁰F until cooked through. This stay-at-home-while-cooking-and-baking is heartwarming and you can get household projects completed at the same time. Also, this pairing is a whole meal of wholesome protein that is inexpensive, which is worth the effort. So, let the cold continue, it’s warm inside from the stove and oven heat and the household chores are done, too! © Kelly McBride Loft