Instant Pot Lentils Recipe
Introduction
Instant Pot lentils are a quick and easy way to prepare a nutritious and versatile ingredient for many meals. With minimal prep and just a few simple ingredients, you can have perfectly cooked lentils ready in under 20 minutes.
Ingredients
- 1 cup lentils (brown, green, or black)
- 3 cups water, vegetable broth, or chicken broth
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 garlic clove, peeled
- ¾ tsp kosher salt
Instructions
- Step 1: Rinse the lentils thoroughly and check for any small pebbles or debris, removing them as needed.
- Step 2: Place the lentils in the Instant Pot inner pot and pour in the water or broth. Add the bay leaf, peeled garlic clove, and kosher salt.
- Step 3: Close the lid and ensure the pressure release valve is set to the sealed position. Select the Pressure Cook or Manual function and set the timer for 9 minutes at high pressure.
- Step 4: When cooking is complete, let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then carefully release any remaining pressure manually. Open the lid and drain the lentils if you prefer to remove excess liquid.
- Step 5: Use the cooked lentils immediately in your favorite dish, or store them in an airtight container.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, swap water for vegetable or chicken broth.
- Omit the garlic and bay leaf to keep lentils neutral for salads or dips.
- Add chopped onions or spices before cooking for more depth.
- Adjust cooking time slightly if using red lentils, which cook faster.
Storage
Store cooked lentils in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a resealable bag or container for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to restore moisture if needed.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use dried lentils without soaking?
Yes, lentils do not require soaking before cooking, especially when using an Instant Pot, which cooks them quickly and evenly.
What if my lentils are mushy after cooking?
If your lentils turn out too soft, try reducing the pressure cooking time by a minute or two next time. Different lentil varieties may need slight adjustments.
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Instant Pot Lentils Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: About 3 cups cooked lentils 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free, Low Fat, Low Salt
Description
A quick and easy Instant Pot lentils recipe that delivers perfectly cooked lentils with minimal effort. Using the pressure cooker function, these lentils come out tender and flavorful, ideal for incorporating into salads, soups, or as a protein-packed side dish.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 cup lentils (brown, green, or black)
- 3 cups water, vegetable broth, or chicken broth
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 garlic clove, peeled
- ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
Instructions
- Rinse the lentils: Thoroughly rinse the lentils under cold water and check to remove any small stones or debris to ensure cleanliness.
- Prepare the Instant Pot: Add the rinsed lentils to the inner pot of the Instant Pot. Pour in 3 cups of your chosen liquid—water, vegetable broth, or chicken broth. Add the bay leaf, peeled garlic clove, and kosher salt to the pot.
- Seal and cook: Close the Instant Pot lid securely and ensure the pressure release valve is set to the sealing position. Select the Pressure Cook or Manual setting, and set the cooking time for 9 minutes on high pressure.
- Pressure release: Once the cooking cycle finishes, allow the pressure to naturally release for 5 minutes, then carefully switch the valve to venting to release any remaining pressure. Remove the lid once safe to do so.
- Drain and store: If desired, drain the lentils using a colander to remove extra liquid. Use immediately in your dish or transfer lentils to an airtight container. Store cooked lentils in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for longer-term storage.
Notes
- You can use any variety of lentils such as brown, green, or black, but cooking times may vary slightly.
- Using broth instead of water will add more flavor to your lentils.
- Do not overfill the Instant Pot; lentils expand as they cook.
- Natural pressure release helps avoid splitting lentils and yields better texture.
- Cooked lentils can be reheated and used in salads, soups, stews, or as a protein-rich side dish.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 9 minutes
- Category: Main Dish, Side Dish
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: International
Keywords: Instant Pot lentils, easy lentil recipe, pressure cooker lentils, healthy lentils, quick lentils
