Article: Other than salt, most non-acidic seasonings can be added to the pot of lentils and water as they cook. Seasoning the lentils as they cook allows the flavor to be absorbed more thoroughly.  Possible seasonings for 1 cup (250 mL) dried lentils include 1/4 tsp (1.25 mL) freshly ground black pepper, 1 bay leaf, 1 clove mashed or minced garlic, or 1 sliced shallot. Strain out large seasonings like bay leaves or clumps of garlic when you strain out the water. Since water is a bland liquid, you may wish to use low-sodium or sodium-free stock instead of water in order to infuse the lentils with more flavor as they cook.  Both chicken stock and vegetable stock are popular choices. Use as much stock as you would use water. Homemade stock is preferable to store-bought broth since a commercial broth is likely to contain a high content of salt. Salt can make it difficult, if not impossible, for the lentils to become tender if added to the lentils as they cook. Any broth or stock you use should be salt-free, if possible, or at least very low in sodium. Potatoes and sweet potatoes cut into 1/2-inch (1.25-cm) cubes or smaller pieces will cook in roughly the same amount of time as lentils.  Many other vegetables, like carrots and broccoli, can also be cooked alongside the lentils. Make sure that you choose slightly tougher vegetables, though, rather than soft vegetables like peas, onions, or bell peppers, since soft vegetables tend to cook too fast. Make sure that you add more water if cooking the lentils with vegetables. In a slow cooker, you should have at least 2 inches (5 cm) of water covering the contents of the slow cooker. For a saucepan, make sure that the contents are slightly covered throughout the entire process. You can add other seasonings and dressings to your lentils alongside the salt.  Acidic ingredients should always be added after the lentils finish cooking, but even non-acidic ingredients can be added to fully cooked lentils. Acidic ingredients include lemon juice and vinegar. Olive oil or oil-based dressings can be used, as well. You can also consider adding spices like curry powder, ground cumin, garlic, cayenne pepper, or chili pepper, as well as herbs like cilantro or parsley.

What is a summary?
Cook the lentils with various seasonings. Replace the water with broth or stock. Cook diced potatoes or sweet potatoes with the lentils. Season the cooked lentils. Finished.