Name: Instant Pot Lentil Soup
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 Tbsp cooking oil; 1 cup onion, chopped ((~1 small onion)); 1 cup carrots, sliced ((~2 carrots)); 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 cup dried brown lentils; 2 tsp cumin; 1 tsp garlic powder; 3 sprigs fresh thyme, leaves only; 4 cups low sodium chicken broth; 1 tsp salt (plus more to taste); chopped parsley (optional garnish)

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There’s something special about a warm bowl of Instant Pot Lentil Soup on a chilly winter evening. I remember the first time I made this dish; the aroma of sautéing vegetables filled my kitchen and wrapped me in a comforting embrace. It was one of those days where I needed something hearty yet easy, and this recipe became my go-to. The best part? It cooks in under an hour in the Instant Pot, making it a perfect quick dinner after a long day. As I savored each spoonful, I was reminded that a simple meal can bring so much joy.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
35 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
30 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
250 kcal

Protein:
16g g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
4g g

Tools Used:
Chef’s Knife, Cutting Board, Instant Pot, Wooden Spoon

The Charm of This Instant Pot Lentil Soup

Quick and Easy

One of the reasons I adore this Instant Pot Lentil Soup is just how quick it is to prepare. With just a few basic steps, you can have a delicious, nutritious meal ready in no time. The Instant Pot takes care of cooking the lentils perfectly while you can relax and enjoy the process. It’s a weeknight lifesaver that never fails to satisfy.

Nutritious and Filling

This soup is not just comforting but also packed with nutrients. Lentils are an excellent source of protein and fiber, making this dish a wholesome choice for any meal. I love knowing that each bowl is loaded with health benefits, keeping my family feeling full and energized.

Adaptable Ingredients

You can easily adapt the Instant Pot Lentil Soup to suit your pantry needs. If you have leftover vegetables, toss them in! Carrots, celery, or even some greens can work wonderfully here. It’s a great way to clean out the fridge and minimize waste.

Perfect for Meal Prep

This soup stores beautifully, which is why it’s ideal for meal prep. I often make a large batch on Sundays and enjoy it throughout the week. It reheats well and tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.

Family-Friendly

Kids and adults alike love this Instant Pot Lentil Soup. Its mild flavor profile makes it appealing to even the pickiest eaters. Adding a sprinkle of cheese or some crusty bread on the side makes it a hit in our household!

Ingredients for Instant Pot Lentil Soup

Every ingredient in this Instant Pot Lentil Soup plays a vital role in creating the rich, comforting flavors we all crave. The combination of fresh vegetables, hearty lentils, and aromatic spices creates a symphony of taste that warms the soul. Let’s dive into what makes this soup shine.

1 Tbsp cooking oil – This is essential for sautéing the vegetables, helping to release their flavors and create a savory base for the soup.
1 cup onion, chopped (approximately 1 small onion) – Onions add depth and sweetness to the soup, providing a wonderful foundation for the other ingredients.
1 cup carrots, sliced (about 2 carrots) – Carrots bring a natural sweetness and lovely color, making the soup visually appealing and tasty.
1 bell pepper, diced – Bell peppers add a crunchy texture and bright flavor that enhances the overall taste.
1 cup dried brown lentils – The star of the show! Brown lentils are hearty and cook well in the Instant Pot, providing a nutritious boost.
2 tsp cumin – This spice adds a warm, earthy flavor that complements the lentils beautifully.
1 tsp garlic powder – Garlic powder offers a hint of garlic flavor, enhancing the soup without overpowering it.
3 sprigs fresh thyme, leaves only – Thyme provides a subtle herbal note that brightens the dish.
4 cups low sodium chicken broth – A flavorful base that brings everything together while keeping the soup light.
1 tsp salt, plus more to taste – Salt is key in balancing flavors and bringing out the natural sweetness of the vegetables.
Chopped parsley, optional garnish – A sprinkle of parsley adds a fresh touch and a pop of color just before serving.

Step by Step Guide for Instant Pot Lentil Soup

Making this Instant Pot Lentil Soup is straightforward and rewarding. Let’s walk through the steps together to create this flavorful and nutritious dish.

Start by turning your Instant Pot to “sauté” mode. Add in the cooking oil, followed by the onion, carrots, and bell pepper. Cook them for about 3 to 5 minutes until they soften and the onions become translucent. This step is crucial as it builds the flavor base for your soup.
Next, add in the remaining ingredients: brown lentils, cumin, garlic powder, fresh thyme, low sodium chicken broth, and salt. Stir everything well to combine all the ingredients.
Now, secure the lid on your Instant Pot and move the pressure valve to the “sealing” position. This is important for building pressure and cooking the lentils properly.
Set the Instant Pot to “Beans/Chili” mode and adjust the timer to 25 minutes. It will take a few minutes for the pot to come to pressure, so be patient.
Once the timer goes off, let the Instant Pot naturally release pressure for about 10 minutes before carefully moving the valve to release any remaining pressure. This helps to keep the lentils tender.
After removing the lid, give the soup a taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Feel free to add more salt or pepper to suit your palate.
If desired, garnish your soup with chopped parsley before serving. This adds a vibrant touch and a hint of freshness!
Serve the soup warm, possibly with some crusty bread or a light salad on the side to complete your meal.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze for future meals.
Enjoy the comforting and hearty flavors of your homemade Instant Pot Lentil Soup!

Things Worth Knowing

Cooking Lentils: It’s essential to rinse your lentils before adding them to the soup. This helps remove any dust or debris that might be present.
Flavor Boost: If you want to enhance the flavor even further, consider adding a bay leaf during cooking; just remember to remove it before serving.
Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrition.
Serving Temperature: The soup is delightful served warm, but if you prefer it cold, it can also be enjoyed as a refreshing summer dish!

Recipe Notes about Instant Pot Lentil Soup

Here are some additional tips to make your Instant Pot Lentil Soup experience even better:

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Freezing: This soup freezes wonderfully! Make sure to cool it completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers for up to six months.
Pairing: This soup goes well with crusty bread or a fresh salad, making it a complete meal.
Adjusting Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, feel free to mash some of the lentils against the side of the pot.
Experiment: Don’t hesitate to experiment with different spices or vegetables based on your personal preferences.

What Goes Well With This Instant Pot Lentil Soup

Crusty Bread: A slice of warm baguette or sourdough is perfect for dipping into the soup.
Green Salad: A light salad with a vinaigrette can balance the hearty flavors of the soup.
Cheese Plate: A variety of cheeses served alongside can enhance your meal.
Enjoy on a Cozy Night: This soup is perfect for chilly evenings, served as a main dish during dinner.
Great for Meal Prep: Prepare a large batch to enjoy throughout the week or share with friends.

FAQ

Absolutely! While I used brown lentils for this recipe, you can experiment with other varieties like green or red lentils. Just keep in mind that different types of lentils have varying cooking times. Be sure to check the package directions for any adjustments needed. Brown lentils hold their shape well, making them perfect for soups, but feel free to get creative!

This Instant Pot Lentil Soup keeps well in the refrigerator for up to a week when stored in an airtight container. It also makes for an excellent freezer meal! If you cool it completely before transfering to freezer-safe containers, it can last for up to six months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating for the best texture.

Definitely! This soup is incredibly versatile. You can add vegetables like spinach, kale, or zucchini in the last few minutes of cooking. They’ll add even more nutrition and flavor. Feel free to use whatever you have on hand, making it a great way to use up leftover vegetables!

I love serving this Instant Pot Lentil Soup with crusty bread or a simple green salad. It’s a comforting combination that complements the hearty flavors of the soup. You could also consider pairing it with a cheese plate or a fresh fruit dessert to round out the meal. Enjoy it as a main dish for dinner or a light lunch!

Conclusion

The Instant Pot Lentil Soup is truly a comforting and nutritious meal that brings warmth to chilly days. It’s simple to prepare and packed with flavors that everyone will enjoy. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and share it with your loved ones. You’ll find that it becomes a staple in your kitchen, bringing joy and satisfaction to your meals.