Instant Pot Lentils

why make this recipe

Cooking lentils in the Instant Pot is a great way to save time while making a healthy and delicious dish. Lentils are packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. This recipe is straightforward and allows you to prepare lentils quickly, making them perfect for salads, soups, or side dishes.

how to make Lentils in the Instant Pot

Ingredients:

• 1 cup lentils (see recipe notes for details on varieties)
• 1 3/4 cup water or vegetable broth
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• Black pepper to taste
• Other seasonings as desired (bay leaves, fresh or dried herbs, whole spices, chopped onions, garlic cloves, etc.)

Directions:

1. Add the lentils and water or broth to the inner pot of the Instant Pot. Add salt, pepper, and any other seasonings you want. Stir well to combine.

2. Secure the lid and select the Pressure Cook setting. Set the timer to 6 to 8 minutes for al dente lentils, or 10 minutes for softer lentils.

3. When the timer beeps, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes. After that, perform a manual pressure release to vent any remaining steam.

4. Open the pot, discard any aromatics, and transfer the lentils to a bowl or Tupperware using a slotted spoon.

5. Store cooked lentils in an airtight container in the fridge for 5-7 days, or freeze them for 4-6 months.

how to serve Lentils in the Instant Pot

You can serve lentils in many ways. They make a great base for salads or can be added to soups. Try serving them warm with a drizzle of olive oil or toss them with your favorite vegetables. You can also make lentil tacos or serve them as a side with your main dish.

how to store Lentils in the Instant Pot

After cooking, let the lentils cool down before storing them. Place them in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 5-7 days. For longer storage, freeze the lentils for 4-6 months. Make sure to label the container with the date so you can keep track of freshness.

tips to make Lentils in the Instant Pot

• Rinse lentils before cooking to remove any dirt or debris.
• Experiment with different seasonings like garlic, onions, or herbs for extra flavor.
• If you prefer a creamier texture, you can mash some of the cooked lentils after cooking.
• Make sure to check the type of lentils you are using, as cooking times may vary slightly.

variation (if any)

You can use vegetable broth instead of water for added flavor. Additionally, try using different types of lentils like green, brown, or red. Each variety has a unique taste and texture, which can change the final dish.

FAQs

Q: Can I cook lentils without an Instant Pot?
A: Yes, you can cook lentils on the stovetop. They usually take about 20-30 minutes depending on the type of lentils.

Q: How can I make lentils easier to digest?
A: Soaking lentils for a few hours before cooking can help. Additionally, adding spices like cumin or ginger may aid digestion.

Q: Are lentils gluten-free?
A: Yes, lentils are naturally gluten-free, making them a great option for people with gluten sensitivities.

Lentils in the Instant Pot

---

• Author: ikramnihad
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Gluten-Free

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Quick and healthy lentils cooked in the Instant Pot, perfect for salads, soups, or side dishes.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup lentils
• 1 3/4 cups water or vegetable broth
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• Black pepper to taste
• Other seasonings as desired (bay leaves, fresh or dried herbs, whole spices, chopped onions, garlic cloves, etc.)

---

Instructions

1. Add the lentils and water or broth to the inner pot of the Instant Pot. Add salt, pepper, and any other seasonings you want. Stir well to combine.
2. Secure the lid and select the Pressure Cook setting. Set the timer to 6 to 8 minutes for al dente lentils, or 10 minutes for softer lentils.
3. When the timer beeps, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes. After that, perform a manual pressure release to vent any remaining steam.
4. Open the pot, discard any aromatics, and transfer the lentils to a bowl or Tupperware using a slotted spoon.
5. Store cooked lentils in an airtight container in the fridge for 5-7 days, or freeze them for 4-6 months.

Notes

Rinse lentils before cooking to remove any dirt or debris. Experiment with different seasonings for extra flavor.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Pressure Cooking
• Cuisine: Vegan

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 200
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Fat: 1g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Unsaturated Fat: 1g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 15g
• Protein: 15g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: lentils, Instant Pot, healthy, vegan, gluten-free