How to Cook Lentils in the Instant Pot
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How to Cook Lentils in the Instant Pot
Description
How to Cook Lentils in the Instant Pot describes pressure cooking whole lentils with water or broth, salt, pepper, and optional flavorings such as herbs, garlic, or bay leaves. The cooking time ranges from 6 to 10 minutes, allowing you to select between a firmer lentil suitable for salads or a softer texture for stews. After pressure cooking, a natural release ensures the lentils finish cooking gently. Once done, you remove any added aromatics and transfer the lentils for serving or storage. This method shapes a reliable base ingredient for diverse meals and keeps well refrigerated for up to a week or frozen for longer use.
Ingredients
- 1 cup lentils (see recipe notes for details on varieties)
- 1 3/4 cup water or vegetable broth
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- black pepper to taste
- Other seasonings as desired (bay leaves, fresh or dried herbs, whole spices, chopped onions, garlic cloves, etc.)
Instructions
- Add the lentils and water or broth to the inner pot of the Instant Pot. Add salt, pepper, and any other seasonings of choice. Stir to combine.
- Secure the lid and select the Pressure Cook setting. Set the timer to 6 to 8 minutes for al dente lentils, or 10 minutes for softer lentils.
- When the timer beeps, allow a natural pressure release for 10 minutes. Perform a manual pressure release to vent any remaining steam. Open the pot, discard any aromatics, and transfer the lentils to a bowl or tupperware using a slotted spoon.
- Store cooked lentils in an airtight container in the fridge for 5-7 days, or freeze for 4-6 months.
Notes
- This cooking time works well for brown, green, French green ("Puy"), and black beluga lentils but not for red or yellow split types.
- Add aromatics like bay leaves or garlic to enhance flavor during cooking and discard before serving.
- Cooked lentils store in the refrigerator for 5-7 days and freeze for 4-6 months in airtight containers.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 2cups
Amount Per Serving
Calories 339 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 339kcal | 17% |
| Carbohydrates | 58g | 19% |
| Protein | 25g | 50% |
| Fat | 1g | 2% |
| Saturated Fat | 0.1g | 1% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.5g | 3% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 0.2g | 1% |
| Sodium | 597mg | 25% |
| Potassium | 917mg | 20% |
| Fiber | 29g | 116% |
| Sugar | 2g | 4% |
| Vitamin A | 37IU | 1% |
| Vitamin C | 4mg | 4% |
| Calcium | 60mg | 6% |
| Iron | 7mg | 39% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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