Instant Pot Lentil Soup

Imagine a steaming bowl of lentil soup, its savory aroma filling your kitchen, inviting you into cozy comfort.

This Instant Pot Lentil Soup is a breeze to whip up, perfect for those who seek simplicity and warmth in a meal.

As the lentils, veggies, and spices meld together under pressure, they transform into a heartwarming dish that feels both nourishing and indulgent.

Ready to bring this savory delight to life? Let’s cook!

Kitchen Tools Required

• 1 Instant Pot
• 1 Cutting board
• 1 Knife
• 1 Wooden spoon
• 1 Measuring cup
• 1 Measuring spoons set

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Cook & Prep Time

Creating a timeline for the Instant Pot Lentil Soup will help guarantee efficient time management.

Below is a suggested timeline that includes prep work, cooking activities, and additional time for reading the recipe:

Timeline for Instant Pot Lentil Soup

1. Reading and Preparation (5 minutes)
   • Read through the entire recipe to familiarize yourself with the steps and ingredients.
   • Gather all necessary ingredients and equipment.
2. Ingredient Prep (10 minutes)
   • Chop 1 medium onion.
   • Mince 2 cloves of garlic.
   • Dice 2 medium carrots.
   • Dice 2 stalks of celery.
   • Rinse 1 cup of dried green or brown lentils.
3. Sautéing (5 minutes)
   • Set the Instant Pot to Sauté mode and heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
   • Add and sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until the onion is translucent.
   • Add the diced carrots and celery, cooking for another 3 minutes.
4. Combining Ingredients (5 minutes)
   • Stir in the rinsed lentils, 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, and 1 bay leaf.
   • Pour in 4 cups of vegetable broth and 1 can (14.5 ounces) of diced tomatoes.
   • Season with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper.
   • Secure the lid on the Instant Pot.
5. Pressure Cooking (15 minutes)
   • Set the Instant Pot to Pressure Cook on high for 15 minutes.
6. Pressure Release (10 minutes)
   • Allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes.
   • Perform a quick release for any remaining pressure.
7. Finishing Touches (5 minutes)
   • Open the lid, stir the soup, and discard the bay leaf.
   • Garnish with 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley if desired.
   • Serve hot.

Notes:

• Consider using the reading time to also pre-measure spices and other small ingredients.
• Adjust seasoning to taste before serving.
• For a thicker soup, consider using an immersion blender to puree part of the soup.

This timeline guarantees that you manage your time efficiently and have a smooth cooking experience. Enjoy your delicious Instant Pot Lentil Soup!

Recipe Instructions

Set the Instant Pot to Sauté mode and heat the olive oil.

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sauté until the onion is translucent.

Add the diced carrots and celery, and cook for another 3 minutes.

Stir in the rinsed lentils, ground cumin, dried thyme, and bay leaf.

Pour in the vegetable broth and diced tomatoes, stirring to combine.

Season with salt and black pepper, then secure the lid.

Set the Instant Pot to Pressure Cook on high for 15 minutes.

Allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then perform a quick release for any remaining pressure.

Open the lid and stir the soup, discarding the bay leaf.

Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Serving Tips

• Crusty Bread: Serve with a slice of crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth.
• Side Salad: Pair with a fresh green salad for a light and balanced meal.
• Grilled Cheese: Enjoy alongside a warm, melty grilled cheese sandwich for a comforting combination.
• Rice or Quinoa: Serve over a bed of rice or quinoa for added texture and heartiness.
• Lemon Wedges: Offer lemon wedges on the side for a zesty, invigorating touch.

Storage

Store leftover Instant Pot Lentil Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days.

For longer storage, freeze the soup for up to three months.

Freezing

To freeze Instant Pot Lentil Soup, let it cool completely.

Transfer portions to airtight containers or freezer bags, leaving space for expansion.

Label with the date and freeze for up to three months.

Reheating

To reheat Instant Pot Lentil Soup, use a stovetop or microwave.

Stir occasionally to guarantee even heating.

Add a splash of broth if needed to maintain desired consistency.

Final Thoughts

Instant Pot Lentil Soup is a hearty and nutritious dish that’s easy to prepare.

The combination of lentils, vegetables, and spices creates a comforting meal perfect for any occasion.

For best results, make sure the lentils are rinsed well to remove any debris or dust.

If you prefer a thicker soup, you can use an immersion blender to puree a portion of the soup before serving.

Adjust the seasoning to taste, and feel free to add a squeeze of lemon juice for a touch of brightness.

This soup isn’t only delicious but also a great source of protein and fiber.

Enjoy this Mediterranean-inspired dish with a side of crusty bread for a complete meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Substitute Red Lentils for Green or Brown Lentils?

You can definitely substitute red lentils for green or brown ones. They’ll cook faster and may break down more, creating a creamier texture. Keep an eye on them so they don’t overcook and adjust cooking time accordingly.

What Can I Use Instead of Vegetable Broth?

You can replace vegetable broth with chicken broth for a richer flavor or use water with a splash of soy sauce for depth. Enhance taste by tossing in herbs like rosemary or thyme to elevate your dish.

How Can I Make This Soup Spicier?

To spice things up, add a chopped jalapeño with the onions, or sprinkle in some red pepper flakes and smoked paprika. Don’t forget to taste as you go, adjusting the heat level to your preference.

Is This Recipe Gluten-Free?

Yes, you’re in luck! This delightful soup is naturally gluten-free. The comforting blend of lentils, aromatic veggies, and spices guarantees a hearty meal without gluten worries. Enjoy the rich flavors as they warmly envelop your senses.

Can I Add Meat to This Lentil Soup?

Absolutely, you can enhance the hearty flavors by adding meat. Try browning sausage or diced chicken in the Instant Pot before sautéing vegetables. They’ll infuse the soup with rich, savory notes, making each bite incredibly satisfying.