Instant Pot Lentil Soup
Are you looking for a hearty and delicious meal that is quick and easy to make? Look no further than Instant Pot Lentil Soup! This comforting dish is packed with flavor and nutritious ingredients that will satisfy your taste buds and keep you feeling full and satisfied. In this article, we will explore the benefits of using an Instant Pot to make lentil soup, and provide you with some helpful tips and tricks to make the perfect batch every time.
The Magic of the Instant Pot
The Instant Pot is like having a personal chef in your kitchen. It combines the functions of a pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker, and more into one convenient appliance. With the Instant Pot, you can create delicious meals in a fraction of the time it would take using traditional cooking methods.
When it comes to making lentil soup, the Instant Pot is a game-changer. It allows you to cook your soup quickly and efficiently, while still maintaining all of the flavors and nutrients. The high-pressure cooking method helps to infuse the lentils with the rich flavors of the broth and spices, resulting in a soup that is bursting with taste.
Tips for Making the Perfect Instant Pot Lentil Soup
Now that you know the benefits of using an Instant Pot, let’s dive into some tips and tricks for making the perfect batch of lentil soup:
1. Rinse and Sort Lentils
Before adding your lentils to the Instant Pot, be sure to rinse them thoroughly and remove any debris. This helps to remove any impurities and ensures that your soup is clean and flavorful.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
One of the keys to a flavorful lentil soup is sautéing the aromatics before adding the broth and lentils. This step helps to release the flavors of the onions, garlic, and spices, resulting in a more robust and savory soup.
3. Use the Manual Setting
When cooking lentil soup in the Instant Pot, it’s best to use the manual setting. This allows you to control the cooking time and ensure that the lentils are perfectly cooked. Start with a cooking time of around 15 minutes and adjust as needed.
4. Allow for Natural Pressure Release
Once the cooking time is complete, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release the pressure. This helps to lock in the flavors and ensures that the lentils are tender and fully cooked.
FAQs
1. Can I use different types of lentils in this recipe?
Yes, you can use different types of lentils in this recipe. Green lentils, red lentils, and brown lentils are all great options.
2. Can I freeze the leftovers?
Absolutely! This soup freezes well and makes for a convenient and delicious meal later on. Just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
3. Can I add other vegetables to the soup?
Of course! Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables. Carrots, celery, and spinach all make great additions.
4. Can I make this soup on the stovetop instead?
Yes, you can. Simply follow the same steps, but adjust the cooking time accordingly. Simmer the soup on the stovetop until the lentils are tender.
5. Can I make this soup without an Instant Pot?
Yes, you can. Simply use a regular pot or Dutch oven and follow the same steps. The cooking time may be longer, so be sure to check the lentils for doneness.
6. Can I make this soup in advance?
Definitely! This soup tastes even better the next day, so feel free to make it in advance and reheat when ready to serve.
7. Can I add meat to this soup?
Yes, you can. Sausage or diced chicken are great options. Just be sure to cook the meat thoroughly before adding it to the soup.
8. What can I serve with this soup?
This soup is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with a side salad, crusty bread, or a grilled cheese sandwich for a complete and satisfying meal.
So there you have it – a delicious and nutritious Instant Pot Lentil Soup that is sure to become a family favorite. With the help of the Instant Pot, you can enjoy a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Give it a try and see for yourself!
Remember, the Instant Pot is a versatile tool that can be used to create a wide variety of dishes. Don’t limit yourself to just lentil soup – experiment with different ingredients and flavors to create your own unique recipes. Happy cooking!
Instant Pot Lentil Soup
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion , chopped
- 2 celery stalks , chopped
- 2 cups of chopped carrots
- 6 kale leaves , chopped
- 4 garlic cloves , minced
- 1 (14-ounce) can of diced fire-roasted tomatoes
- ¾ cup of uncooked green lentils
- 2 tablespoons of white wine vinegar
- 12 sprigs of fresh thyme
- 1½ teaspoons of sea salt
- Heaping ½ teaspoon of ground cumin
- Freshly ground black pepper , to taste
- 6 cups of vegetable broth
- Red pepper flakes , to taste
- ½ cup of chopped fresh parsley
- Grated Parmesan , to taste
- Crusty bread , for serving
Instructions
- Turn on the Sauté function on your Instant Pot. Adjust the heat level to medium and set the timer for 8 minutes.
- Once the Instant Pot is preheated, add the oil, onion, celery, and carrots. Cook for 8 minutes or until the vegetables become tender.
- Add the kale stems, garlic, tomatoes, lentils, vinegar, thyme bundle, salt, cumin, and a few grinds of pepper to the pot. Stir well.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and seal the Instant Pot with the lid. Set the pressure cook setting to high and cook for 15 minutes.
- Allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure, which should take around 20 to 30 minutes. Wait until the float valve drops before removing the lid.
- Stir in the kale leaves and sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
- Remove the thyme bundle and garnish the dish with parsley and grated Parmesan, if desired.
- Serve the dish with crusty bread.
