FOR QUICK SOAKING ANY BEANS/LENTILS: Wash and add the beans to pot along with 3 times the water. Bring everything to a boil. Turn off the heat, cover the lid and let it sit for an hour. Beans will be as good as soaked overnight and easier to cook.
COOKING IN POT: Add the soaked beans in a pot along with the water and any seasoning and turn the heat to high. Once it boils, reduce the heat, cover the pan and let it gently simmer for about 40-50 minutes or till the beans are tender. Alternately slow cooker can be used too.
(Smaller lentils take lesser time)