Puy lentils, also called Le Puy or French green lentils, are a small, dark green lentil variety grown in the volcanic soil of the Puy region in France’s Auvergne area. They hold their shape well during cooking, thanks to a firm, almost pebble-like texture, and have a distinct peppery, earthy flavor that sets them apart from ordinary green or brown lentils, which soften and lose shape more readily. This makes Puy lentils well suited to salads and dishes where a firm bite matters, such as the classic French Lyonnaise lentil salad with bacon and mustard vinaigrette, as well as stews like lentilles et saucisses. Unsoaked, they typically take about 20-25 minutes to become tender, and are a good source of protein, fiber, and iron.