Introduction
When the weather turns chilly or you need a wholesome, hearty dish to fuel your body, a warm bowl of lentil soup is a comforting and nutritious choice. This Instant Pot Lentil Soup recipe delivers on all fronts—it’s not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor, protein, and essential nutrients, making it a perfect choice for meal prep or a cozy dinner.
If you’ve been searching for a simple yet satisfying recipe, this Instant Pot Lentil Soup will exceed your expectations. The combination of lentils, vegetables, and warming spices creates a satisfying dish that the entire family will love.
In this article, we’ll guide you through every step of the process, from gathering your ingredients to serving up a steaming bowl of soup. This recipe is optimized to be quick and straightforward, but still packed with taste and nutrition. So, let’s dive in and get cooking!
What is Instant Pot Lentil Soup?
Instant Pot Lentil Soup is a hearty and nourishing soup made with lentils, vegetables, and flavorful spices. Prepared using the Instant Pot, this recipe cuts down the cooking time without compromising on flavor or texture. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, offering a nutritious, protein-packed dish in no time.
This lentil soup has the perfect balance of flavors—earthy lentils, sweet carrots, aromatic celery, and fresh herbs like thyme, all simmered together in a rich, savory broth. The Instant Pot’s pressure cooking function ensures that all the flavors meld beautifully, resulting in a satisfying, cozy soup you can enjoy year-round.
Origin of Instant Pot Lentil Soup
Lentil soups have been a part of various cuisines for centuries, popular in many countries such as India, the Middle East, and Mediterranean regions. Lentils have long been a staple in these areas, valued for their affordability, versatility, and nutritional benefits. They are rich in protein, fiber, iron, and other essential vitamins and minerals.
The Instant Pot is a relatively recent kitchen innovation that has taken the culinary world by storm. It combines the benefits of a pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker, and more—all in one device. By using this modern tool, this recipe offers a quicker way to make traditional lentil soup without compromising on taste.
Ingredients for Instant Pot Lentil Soup (Serves 6)
- 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 4 medium carrots, peeled and diced
- 3 celery stalks, diced
- 4 sprigs fresh thyme (tie together for easy removal)
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- ¾ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1½ cups French green lentils (or brown lentils)
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 1 can crushed tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- Optional: fresh parsley, Parmesan cheese, crusty bread for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions for Preparing Instant Pot Lentil Soup
1. Sauté Aromatics:
Start by setting your Instant Pot to the SAUTE setting. Add 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil to the pot and let it heat up. Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion. Sauté the onion for about 8 minutes, or until it becomes soft and golden brown. The caramelized onions will enhance the soup’s flavor, providing a sweet and savory base for the soup.
2. Add Vegetables & Spices:
After the onions are ready, stir in the diced carrots, diced celery, and 4 sprigs of fresh thyme (tied together for easy removal later). Sprinkle in the kosher salt, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Sauté everything for about 2 minutes, letting the spices infuse the vegetables. The smoked paprika adds a rich, smoky flavor to the soup, making it truly special.
3. Add Lentils & Garlic:
Stir in the French green lentils (or brown lentils) and minced garlic. Let the mixture cook for about 30 seconds. This step allows the garlic to release its fragrance, infusing the soup with a delicious aroma. The lentils will absorb the flavors of the vegetables and spices as they cook.
4. Add Liquids:
Now, pour in the diced tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Give everything a good stir to combine. The liquid will help cook the lentils and create the soup’s rich, savory base. If you prefer a thicker soup, feel free to reduce the amount of broth slightly.
5. Pressure Cook:
Seal the Instant Pot lid and set it to HIGH pressure. Cook for 15 minutes. The Instant Pot will work its magic, cooking the lentils and vegetables to perfection in a fraction of the time compared to traditional methods. Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10-15 minutes. This ensures the soup’s flavors settle in, and the lentils become tender.
6. Finish & Serve:
After the pressure has released, open the lid carefully. Remove the thyme sprigs and discard them. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt or pepper as needed. To serve, garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, if desired. Pair it with crusty bread for a satisfying meal. Serve hot, and enjoy the comforting flavors!
Tips & Variations for Instant Pot Lentil Soup
- Thinner Soup: If you prefer a thinner consistency, simply add extra broth or water after cooking and stir well. This will loosen up the soup to your desired texture.
- Add Greens: Stir in some spinach or kale towards the end of cooking to add a nutritional boost and extra flavor.
- Boost the Flavor: For a pop of brightness, add a splash of balsamic vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice after the soup is finished cooking. This adds a fresh, tangy flavor that balances out the richness of the lentils and broth.
FAQs
1. Can I make this soup without an Instant Pot?
Yes, you can! Simply follow the same steps, but use a regular pot or Dutch oven. You will need to simmer the soup for about 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
2. Can I freeze Instant Pot Lentil Soup?
Absolutely! This soup freezes well. Let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove.
3. Can I use different types of lentils?
Yes, you can use different types of lentils, but keep in mind that cooking times and texture may vary. Green lentils or brown lentils work best for this recipe because they hold their shape well during cooking.
4. Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, this recipe is already vegan, as it uses vegetable broth and does not contain any dairy or animal-based ingredients. Simply skip the Parmesan cheese garnish if you want to keep it fully vegan.
5. How can I make this recipe spicier?
For an added kick, sprinkle in some cayenne pepper or chili flakes when sautéing the vegetables. You can also stir in some chopped jalapeños for an extra level of heat.
Conclusion
This Instant Pot Lentil Soup is the perfect balance of flavor, nutrition, and ease. It’s an ideal dish for those looking for a quick, healthy meal that doesn’t sacrifice taste. The combination of lentils, vegetables, and aromatic spices makes it a comforting choice for any season.
Whether you’re enjoying a cozy night at home, meal prepping for the week, or looking for a protein-packed dish to share with friends and family, this recipe is sure to satisfy. By using the Instant Pot, you save time without compromising the depth of flavor that makes lentil soup so comforting.
With a few simple ingredients and a bit of time, you can create a hearty, delicious, and nutritious meal that will quickly become a staple in your household. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the Instant Pot, and treat yourself to a bowl of homemade goodness.
Hearty and Flavorful Instant Pot Lentil Soup Recipe – A Cozy, Protein-Packed Meal
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Instant Pot Lentil Soup is a hearty and nourishing soup made with lentils, vegetables, and flavorful spices. Prepared using the Instant Pot, this recipe cuts down the cooking time without compromising on flavor or texture. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, offering a nutritious, protein-packed dish in no time.
This lentil soup has the perfect balance of flavors—earthy lentils, sweet carrots, aromatic celery, and fresh herbs like thyme, all simmered together in a rich, savory broth. The Instant Pot’s pressure cooking function ensures that all the flavors meld beautifully, resulting in a satisfying, cozy soup you can enjoy year-round.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 4 medium carrots, peeled and diced
- 3 celery stalks, diced
- 4 sprigs fresh thyme (tie together for easy removal)
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- ¾ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1½ cups French green lentils (or brown lentils)
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 1 can crushed tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- Optional: fresh parsley, Parmesan cheese, crusty bread for serving
Instructions
- Sauté aromatics: Set Instant Pot to SAUTE. Add olive oil and onion. Cook until soft and golden (about 8 minutes).
- Add veggies & spices: Stir in carrots, celery, thyme, salt, paprika, and pepper. Sauté for 2 minutes.
- Add lentils & garlic: Stir in lentils and garlic. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add liquids: Pour in diced tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Stir well.
- Pressure cook: Seal the lid and cook on HIGH pressure for 15 minutes. Let pressure release naturally (10–15 minutes).
- Finish & serve: Remove thyme stems. Adjust seasoning. Garnish with parsley and Parmesan if desired. Serve hot with bread.
Notes
Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables or add a handful of spinach at the end for extra greens. Serve with crusty bread or over rice for a heartier meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Pressure-cooked
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Keywords: Hearty and Flavorful Instant Pot Lentil Soup Recipe
