Easy & Delicious Instant Pot Lentil Soup Recipe

Easy & Delicious Instant Pot Lentil Soup Recipe

Lentil soup has always been a comfort food favorite, and with an Instant Pot, it's never been easier to make. This Instant Pot lentil soup recipe is a vegetarian meal that's hearty, filling, and packed with flavor. Plus, it's a one-pot recipe, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal.

A Hearty and Nutritious Vegetarian Meal

Lentils are a powerhouse of nutrition, rich in protein, fiber, and essential minerals. This pressure cooker lentil soup is not only delicious but also a gluten-free dish that can cater to various dietary needs.

Ingredients You'll Need

• 1 cup of dried lentils
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 can of diced tomatoes
• 4 cups of vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon of cumin
• 1 teaspoon of paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sauté the Vegetables Turn on your Instant Pot and select the 'Sauté' function. Add a bit of oil and sauté your onions, carrots, and celery until they're soft.

2. Add the Remaining Ingredients Once your vegetables are soft, add the minced garlic, diced tomatoes, lentils, spices, and vegetable broth. Stir everything together.

3. Pressure Cook Secure the lid on your Instant Pot and set the valve to 'Sealing'. Select the 'Manual' or 'Pressure Cook' function and set the timer for 12 minutes.

4. Quick Release and Serve Once the cooking time is up, do a quick release of the pressure. Stir your soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. Serve hot, perhaps with a side of crusty bread.

Tips for the Perfect Instant Pot Lentil Soup

• Don't forget to sauté your vegetables. This step adds depth of flavor to your soup.
• Use the right type of lentils. Brown or green lentils work best for this recipe.
• Don't overcook your lentils. 12 minutes under pressure should be just right.

Variations and Add-Ins

Feel free to customize this recipe to your liking. Add some spinach or kale for extra greens, or throw in a diced potato for a heartier soup. You could also experiment with different spices to change up the flavor profile.

Learn More About Cooking with Lentils

Want to learn more about cooking with lentils? Check out this article on how to make lentil soup in the Instant Pot.

Conclusion

This Instant Pot lentil soup recipe is a simple, delicious, and nutritious meal that's perfect for any time of year. Whether you're a vegetarian or just looking to add more plant-based meals to your diet, this soup is sure to become a favorite.

FAQs

1. Can I use red lentils in this recipe? While red lentils will work, they tend to break down more than brown or green lentils, resulting in a thicker soup.
2. Can I freeze this soup? Yes, this soup freezes well. Let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
3. Can I make this soup on the stovetop? Absolutely! Simply sauté the vegetables in a large pot, add the remaining ingredients, and simmer until the lentils are tender.
4. Is this soup spicy? This recipe is not spicy, but you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you like.
5. Can I add meat to this soup? While this is a vegetarian recipe, you could add cooked sausage or chicken if you prefer.

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