Mia Cook
Mia Cook creates simple, healthy, and delicious recipes. From quick snacks to full meals, her recipes are designed for busy lifestyles and home cooks.
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Instant Pot lentil soup is a warm and healthy dish. Popular because it tastes great, is affordable, and has many health benefits. Lentils pack plant-based protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making this soup a smart choice for healthy dinners and meal prep.
With a modern kitchen tool like the Instant Pot, you can make this hearty soup fast and easy. You won’t sacrifice any flavor or consistency.
In this guide, you will learn how to make the best Instant Pot lentil soup. You will also find expert cooking tips, ingredient ideas, and easy troubleshooting advice. This will help you get great results every time. Why should you choose an Instant Pot for lentil soup?
The Instant Pot transformed home cooking by integrating several functions into one device. It offers a significant benefit when preparing lentil soup.
It cuts down cooking time and improves the flavor. As a result, your lentils cook evenly, absorbing flavors thoroughly, while you save time and effort. Moreover, the Instant Pot helps preserve nutrients, ensuring you get a healthy and hearty meal every time.
Instant Pot Lentil Soup Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup dried lentils (green or brown), rinsed and drained
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 6 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
- 2 cups fresh spinach or kale (optional)
- Juice of 1 lemon (optional)
- Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Sauté the Vegetables:
- Turn on the Instant Pot and select the “Sauté” function.
- Add the olive oil and let it heat.
- Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté the vegetables for about 5 minutes, or until they soften.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
Add Spices:
- Add the ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to coat the vegetables with the spices.
Add Lentils and Liquid:
- Add the rinsed lentils, diced tomatoes (with their juices), and vegetable broth. Stir to combine.
Pressure Cook:
- Close the lid of the Instant Pot and ensure the valve is set to “Sealing.”
- Select the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” function and set the timer for 15 minutes on high pressure.
Natural Release:
- Once the cooking time is done, let the Instant Pot release pressure naturally for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully switch the valve to “Venting” to let out any remaining pressure.
Add Greens (Optional):
- If using, stir in the fresh spinach or kale and let it wilt in the hot soup for a few minutes.
Adjust Seasoning:
Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if necessary. If desired, add the juice of one lemon for brightness.
To Serve:
- Pour the soup into bowls and top with fresh parsley or cilantro, if preferred.
- Serve: Pour the soup into bowls. Add fresh parsley or cilantro on top if you like.
Classic Instant Pot Lentil Soup Recipe
Let’s dive into a simple yet flavorful recipe. To start, gather these ingredients:
– Dried lentils
– Chopped vegetables (carrots, celery, and onions)
– Garlic
– Vegetable broth
– Canned tomatoes
– Spices
– Salt
– Pepper Next, follow these steps:
- Sauté the vegetables and garlic directly in the Instant Pot for about 5 minutes. This step intensifies flavor.
- Add lentils, broth, tomatoes, and spices to the pot. Be sure to stir everything well.
- Seal the lid tightly and set the valve to sealing position.
- Cook on high pressure for 15 to 20 minutes, depending on the desired consistency.
- Release pressure naturally or quickly, based on your preference.
- Taste and adjust seasonings before serving.
How to Make Lentil Soup in Instant Pot:
Tips and Tricks
When learning how to make lentil soup in Instant Pot, several tips can help you perfect your dish. First, always rinse lentils thoroughly before cooking.
This step removes debris and reduces foaming. Second, experiment with spice blends; cumin, turmeric, and smoked paprika add depth of flavor. Third, consider adding greens, such as spinach or kale, after cooking for extra nutrition.
Timing, of course, is crucial. So, how long to cook lentil soup in Instant Pot? Typically, 15 to 20 minutes on high pressure suffices.
For softer lentils, opt for 20 minutes. For firmer texture, reduce the cooking time slightly. Remember, natural pressure release ensures the lentils finish cooking evenly, avoiding mushy results.
Variations of Recipes
The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility. You can adapt instant pot lentil soup recipes by switching ingredients or adding protein, like diced chicken or sausage. Vegetarian options work beautifully too, with tofu or chickpeas complementing the flavors. For a spicier twist, add chili powder or cayenne pepper.
Many people find comfort in trying different vegetables. Bell peppers, zucchini, and sweet potatoes each add a unique twist. These variations keep the recipe exciting and fresh every time.
Troubleshooting Common Issues in Instant Pot Lentil Soup
Sometimes, your resulting lentil soup may not meet expectations. If you notice overly mushy lentils, consider reducing the cooking time or using less liquid. Conversely, if lentils remain too firm, increase the cooking duration slightly. Additionally, if your soup lacks flavor, try seasoning more generously or adding fresh herbs after cooking.
Always remember to deglaze your pot after sautéing to prevent burning and enhance flavor development. Properly sealing the lid and adjusting the pressure valve are crucial for consistently perfect results.
Frequently Asked Questions
Brown lentils and green lentils are the best choices for Instant Pot lentil soup. They hold their shape well and create a thick, hearty texture. Red lentils cook faster but tend to break down and make the soup more creamy.
Most Instant Pot lentil soup recipes cook in about 10–15 minutes on high pressure. Allow extra time for pressure buildup and natural release for best flavor and texture.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, learning how to make lentil soup in Instant Pot unleashes a world of culinary possibilities. With a reliable instant pot lentil soup recipe and some handy tips, you can whip up a hearty, flavorful dish in no time.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with recipes by adding different ingredients or spices. The key to success lies in understanding your appliance, timing it right, and adjusting seasonings to suit your taste. Whether you are feeding your family or making a quick meal for yourself, Instant Pot lentil souup offers comfort and nutrition in a bowl.
