How To Cook Lentil Soup In Instant Pot

Discover the Perfect Recipe for Lentil Soup in the Instant Pot

Welcome to our culinary adventure! Today, we will guide you through the process of cooking a delicious and hearty lentil soup using an Instant Pot. This handy kitchen appliance will save you time and effort, while also infusing your soup with incredible flavors. Let’s get started!

Gather Your Ingredients

Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s make sure we have all the necessary ingredients at hand:

1 cup of lentils (any variety will do)
1 onion, finely chopped
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, chopped
3 cloves of garlic, minced
4 cups of vegetable or chicken broth
1 can of diced tomatoes
1 teaspoon of cumin
1 teaspoon of paprika
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Prepare Your Lentils

Start by rinsing the lentils under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Once cleaned, set them aside.

Sautee the Aromatics

Turn the Instant Pot on and select the sauté function. Add a drizzle of olive oil, then toss in the chopped onion, carrots, celery, and minced garlic. Sauté for a few minutes until the veggies become tender and fragrant.

Add the Remaining Ingredients

Now it’s time to add the rinsed lentils, vegetable or chicken broth, diced tomatoes, cumin, paprika, bay leaf, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper to the Instant Pot. Give everything a good stir to ensure that the flavors are well-distributed.

Let the Instant Pot Work Its Magic

Secure the lid on your Instant Pot and set it to manual high pressure for 15 minutes. Once the cooking time is up, allow natural pressure release for 10 minutes before carefully performing a quick release.

Enjoy and Serve

Remove the bay leaf from the lentil soup and give it a final taste test, adjust the seasoning if needed. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs, if desired. Serve with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

There you have it! A simple yet scrumptious lentil soup recipe prepared effortlessly with the help of the Instant Pot. This nutritious and comforting dish is perfect for chilly evenings or anytime you’re in need of a hearty meal. Bon appétit!

Share your thoughts and experiences on cooking lentil soup in the Instant Pot in our Recipe Sharing forum section.

FAQ:

Can I use any type of lentils for making lentil soup in an Instant Pot?

Yes, you can use any type of lentils for making lentil soup in an Instant Pot. Commonly used lentils include green, brown, or red lentils. Each type may have a slightly different cooking time and texture, so adjust accordingly.

How long does it take to cook lentil soup in an Instant Pot?

The cooking time for lentil soup in an Instant Pot varies depending on the type of lentils used. On average, it takes about 10-15 minutes of high pressure cooking followed by a natural release of pressure for 10-15 minutes.

Do I need to soak lentils before cooking them in an Instant Pot?

No, you do not need to soak lentils before cooking them in an Instant Pot. Lentils cook relatively quickly, and the Instant Pot’s pressure cooking function helps to soften them without the need for soaking.

Can I add vegetables to my lentil soup in an Instant Pot?

Absolutely! Adding vegetables to your lentil soup can enhance the flavor and nutrition. Common additions include carrots, celery, onions, garlic, and tomatoes. Simply chop them into small pieces and add them to the pot before cooking.

Can I make lentil soup in an Instant Pot without using oil?

Yes, you can make lentil soup in an Instant Pot without using oil. Instead of sautéing the ingredients in oil, you can use a small amount of vegetable broth or water to prevent sticking. This helps to keep the soup healthy and low in fat.

Can I make lentil soup in an Instant Pot without onions and garlic?

Yes, you can make lentil soup in an Instant Pot without onions and garlic. If you have dietary restrictions or preferences, you can omit these ingredients and still achieve a delicious lentil soup. Experiment with herbs, spices, and other aromatics to enhance the flavor.

How can I thicken my lentil soup in an Instant Pot?

To thicken your lentil soup in an Instant Pot, you can either use an immersion blender to partially puree some of the cooked lentils, or remove a portion of the soup, blend it until smooth, and then stir it back into the pot. Another option is to add a small amount of flour or cornstarch mixed with water to create a slurry and stir it into the soup.

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