Are you ready to tantalize your taste buds with a dish that’s not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make? Dive into the world of plant-based cooking with our Vegan Instant Pot Lentils Smoky and Savory recipe! Packed with rich flavors and wholesome ingredients, this dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or simply looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, this recipe is sure to impress. Get ready to savor the smoky aroma and hearty texture of lentils that will leave you craving more!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup green or brown lentils
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 1 cup of green or brown lentils, 4 cups of vegetable broth, 1 diced onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon of cumin, salt and pepper to taste, and chopped parsley for garnish.
- Rinse the lentils under cold water in a fine-mesh strainer. This helps remove any dust or debris. Set them aside.
- Turn on your Instant Pot and select the 'Sauté' function. Allow it to heat up for a couple of minutes.
- Once the Instant Pot is hot, add a splash of vegetable broth to prevent sticking. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Add the minced garlic to the pot and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Sprinkle in the smoked paprika and cumin, stirring to combine. Allow the spices to toast for about 30 seconds to release their flavors.
- Add the rinsed lentils to the pot, followed by the remaining vegetable broth. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, keeping in mind that you can adjust the seasoning later if needed.
- Close the lid of the Instant Pot and ensure the valve is set to the sealing position. Select the 'Manual' or 'Pressure Cook' function and set the timer for 15 minutes.
- Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for about 10 minutes, then carefully perform a quick release for any remaining pressure.
- Open the lid and give the lentils a good stir. Check for seasoning and adjust with more salt and pepper if desired.
- Serve the lentils hot, garnished with chopped parsley for a fresh touch. Enjoy your smoky and savory vegan lentils!
Tips
- Choose the Right Lentils: Green or brown lentils work best for this recipe as they hold their shape well during cooking. Avoid red lentils if you prefer a firmer texture.
- Rinse Thoroughly: Always rinse your lentils under cold water to remove any dust or debris. This ensures a clean and flavorful dish.
- Sauté for Flavor: Don’t skip the sautéing step! Cooking the onions and garlic before pressure cooking enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
- Customize Your Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste. Add a pinch of cayenne for heat or a dash of liquid smoke for an extra smoky flavor.
- Natural Pressure Release: Allowing the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes helps the lentils finish cooking gently and prevents them from becoming mushy.
- Garnish for Freshness: A sprinkle of chopped parsley not only adds a pop of color but also a refreshing flavor that complements the smoky lentils beautifully.
- Make It a Meal: Serve these lentils over rice, quinoa, or alongside crusty bread for a satisfying and complete meal.
- Store Leftovers: This dish keeps well in the fridge for up to 5 days, making it perfect for meal prep. Just reheat and enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 230kcal
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 2g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
