Instant Pot Veggie Lentil Soup: A Nutrient-Rich Delight
When you crave a wholesome and satisfying meal that’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, look no further than Veggie Lentil Soup. With the convenience of an Instant Pot, you can have a hearty and flavorful soup ready in no time. Loaded with lentils, an array of vegetables, and savory seasonings, this soup is a healthy delight for any day of the week.
Ingredients:
For the Soup:
- 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon ground paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
Sautéing and Sautéing:
- Set your Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode and add the olive oil.
- Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion, garlic, and a pinch of salt. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion turns translucent.
Adding Ingredients: 3. Add the carrots, celery, bell pepper, and zucchini. Sauté for an additional 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in the ground cumin, ground coriander, ground paprika, ground turmeric, and bay leaf. Sauté for another minute to release their flavors.
Pressure Cooking: 5. Add the rinsed lentils, diced tomatoes (with their juices), and vegetable broth. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Secure the Instant Pot lid and set it to “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” mode on high for 15 minutes.
Natural Release and Serving: 7. Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural pressure release for about 10 minutes.
- Carefully open the Instant Pot, remove the bay leaf, and give the soup a good stir.
Cook’s Notes:
- You can customize the vegetables based on your preferences or what you have in your kitchen. Don’t hesitate to add spinach, kale, or even some sweet potatoes for added goodness.
- If you like a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Serve your Veggie Lentil Soup with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice for a burst of freshness.
- This soup freezes well, so you can make a big batch and store it in individual containers for quick, healthy meals on busy days.
Additional Tips:
- Lentil Varieties: You can use green or brown lentils in this recipe. They hold their shape well during cooking and provide a slightly nutty flavor. Red lentils are another option, but they tend to become mushy, making the soup thicker. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Spices and Seasonings: The combination of ground cumin, coriander, paprika, and turmeric adds depth and warmth to the soup. Feel free to adjust the spice levels to your liking, and experiment with other seasonings like thyme, oregano, or curry powder.
- Extra Protein: If you want to boost the protein content, you can add a can of drained and rinsed chickpeas or cooked chicken pieces to the soup.
- Thicker or Thinner Soup: Depending on your preference, you can adjust the soup’s thickness by adding more or less vegetable broth. For a thicker consistency, use less broth, and for a thinner soup, add more liquid.
- Serving Ideas: This Veggie Lentil Soup is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with a side of crusty bread, pita, or a green salad for a complete meal.
- Storage: Store any leftover soup in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to five days. It’s a perfect option for meal prep.
- Freezing: If you want to freeze the soup, portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw and reheat as needed.
This Veggie Lentil Soup is a versatile, nutrient-rich dish that can be adapted to your taste and dietary preferences. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy a variety of vegetables and the heartiness of lentils, all in one satisfying bowl. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or new to the kitchen, this Instant Pot recipe is sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation. 🍲🥕🌱
