Why Instant Pot Lentil Soup Is a Must-Try

If you’re looking for a soul-warming, nutritious meal that comes together quickly, then Instant Pot Lentil Soup is your new best friend. This vibrant dish captures the richness of tender lentils, perfectly seasoned broth, and fresh vegetables, all coming alive in under an hour. Packed with protein, fiber, and comforting flavors, Instant Pot Lentil Soup is the perfect option for busy weeknights or anytime you crave a wholesome, hearty meal that feels like a hug in a bowl.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Speedy Cooking: The Instant Pot slashes cooking time, turning lentils tender in just minutes without constant monitoring.
• Rich Flavor: A beautiful blend of spices and fresh ingredients creates a deep, satisfying taste that fills your kitchen with warmth.
• Nutrition-Packed: Lentils provide a great source of plant-based protein and fiber, making this soup both healthy and filling.
• One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup is needed since everything cooks together in the Instant Pot, saving precious time.
• Customizable Base: The recipe is a perfect canvas for adding vegetables, herbs, or spices you love to make it your own.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients for Instant Pot Lentil Soup is refreshingly straightforward. Each component plays an essential role, whether enhancing flavor, adding texture, or bringing beautiful color to the bowl.

• Lentils: Choose brown or green lentils for their hearty texture and ability to hold shape during cooking.
• Onion and Garlic: Aromatics that build the flavorful foundation of the soup.
• Carrots and Celery: Classic vegetables adding sweetness, crunch, and vibrant color.
• Diced Tomatoes: They infuse the broth with acidity and a rich, robust body.
• Vegetable Broth: The liquid base that melds all elements together with a savory depth.
• Spices: Ground cumin, smoked paprika, and bay leaves elevate the soup’s aroma and warmth.
• Olive Oil: For sautéing vegetables and adding a silky richness.
• Fresh Herbs: Parsley or cilantro for a fragrant finish and fresh pop of color.

Variations for Instant Pot Lentil Soup

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, making it easy to tailor to your tastes or dietary preferences. Feel free to mix and match ingredients or try new flavor twists to keep this meal exciting every time!

• Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for some heat and bold flavor.
• Greens Upgrade: Stir in chopped spinach, kale, or Swiss chard near the end for extra vitamins and texture.
• Meaty Addition: Include diced smoked sausage or bacon for a richer, heartier variation.
• Herbal Twist: Swap parsley for dill or thyme to explore different aromatic profiles.
• Grain Boost: Mix in some cooked quinoa or barley to increase portion size and add chewiness.

How to Make Instant Pot Lentil Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Turn your Instant Pot to the sauté setting and heat olive oil. Add chopped onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. Cook while stirring until the vegetables soften and release their enticing aroma, about 5 minutes.

Step 2: Add Spices and Tomatoes

Sprinkle in ground cumin, smoked paprika, and bay leaves. Stir well to coat the sautéed veggies with spices. Pour in diced tomatoes and mix everything to combine the layers of flavor.

Step 3: Add Lentils and Broth

Rinse lentils thoroughly under cold water, then add them to the pot along with the vegetable broth. Give everything a good stir to distribute ingredients evenly.

Step 4: Pressure Cook the Soup

Seal the Instant Pot lid and set it to cook on high pressure for 15 minutes. Once the timer goes off, allow a natural pressure release for 10 minutes before carefully venting any remaining steam.

Step 5: Final Touches

Open the lid, remove bay leaves, and taste the soup to adjust salt and pepper as needed. Stir in fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a bright, fresh finish right before serving.

Pro Tips for Making Instant Pot Lentil Soup

• Rinse Lentils Well: This removes dust and reduces foaming during pressure cooking.
• Use Fresh Veggies: Fresh carrots and celery make a big difference in flavor and texture.
• Don’t Skip Sautéing: It builds a richer base and enhances the soup’s overall depth.
• Let it Rest: After cooking, letting the soup sit for a few minutes allows flavors to meld beautifully.
• Adjust Broth Thickness: Use less broth for a thicker soup or more for a lighter, brothier version.

How to Serve Instant Pot Lentil Soup

Garnishes

Top your soup with fresh herbs like chopped parsley, a drizzle of good olive oil, or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan for an elegant touch.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, garlic naan, or a simple green salad to round out your meal without overshadowing the main event.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve in individual bowls with a lemon wedge on the side for a bright, acidic boost; or layer the soup over cooked grains for a filling power bowl variation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover soup in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, allowing easy grab-and-go meals during the week.

Freezing

Instant Pot Lentil Soup freezes beautifully; portion into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

Reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short bursts until warmed through. Add a splash of broth or water if it seems too thick.

FAQs

Can I use red lentils instead of brown or green?

Yes, but red lentils cook faster and tend to break down, creating a creamier texture instead of a chunky soup.

Is Instant Pot Lentil Soup vegan?

Absolutely! This recipe uses vegetable broth and plant-based ingredients, making it perfect for vegan and vegetarian diets.

How long does it take to make Instant Pot Lentil Soup?

From start to finish, including prep and pressure release, it typically takes around 40 to 50 minutes.

Can I add meat to this soup?

Definitely! You can sauté diced chicken, sausage, or bacon at the beginning, then proceed with the recipe to add extra protein and flavor.

What if I don’t have an Instant Pot?

You can make this soup on the stovetop, but it will take longer to cook lentils—about 30 to 40 minutes on a simmer instead of 15 minutes under pressure.

Final Thoughts

Instant Pot Lentil Soup truly is one of those recipes that feels like a cozy homemade hug, ready in a flash and packed with wholesome goodness. Whether you’re rushing home after work or simply craving something nourishing and delicious, this soup will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Go ahead, give it a try and enjoy the comforting flavors that make mealtime something special.

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