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You know, sometimes, you just need a hearty, quick, nutritious meal. That's when I turn to these green lentils. Toss 'em in the Instant Pot with some water or broth, a bit of garlic, onion, and spices, and boom! You've got yourself a meal. It's easy, it's comforting, and it's packed with protein. Trust me, once you've had a taste, you'll be making this recipe on repeat. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients for Delicious Green Lentils in the Instant Pot
- Green lentils: High in protein and fiber, green lentils add a hearty texture and earthy flavor to the dish.
- Water or vegetable broth: Provides the necessary liquid for cooking the lentils and infuses them with extra flavor.
- Onion: Adds a sweet and savory depth to the dish, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the green lentils.
- Garlic: Infuses a pungent and aromatic flavor into the lentils, elevating the dish with its rich taste.
- Cumin: Brings a warm and earthy spice to the dish, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the green lentils.
- Paprika: Adds a smoky and slightly sweet flavor to the lentils, complementing the other spices in the dish.
- Fresh parsley: Provides a fresh and herbaceous garnish, adding a pop of color and freshness to the finished dish.
Read more: Instant Pot Collard Greens Recipe
Essential Tools for Making Instant Pot Lentils
- Instant Pot: Essential for pressure cooking the green lentils quickly and efficiently.
- Knife: Needed for dicing the onion and mincing the garlic for flavoring the lentils.
Instant Pot Green Lentils Recipe
This Instant Pot Green Lentils Recipe is a quick and easy way to prepare a nutritious meal. Perfect for a healthy lunch or dinner, it combines green lentils with aromatic spices and fresh parsley for garnish.
Equipment
- Instant Pot
- Knife
- Cutting board
Ingredients:
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup green lentils
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- to taste Salt and pepper
- for garnish Fresh parsley
Read more: Instant Pot Thai Green Curry Recipe
Instructions:
- Rinse the green lentils under cold water and drain.
- Turn on the Instant Pot and select the sauté function. Add a bit of oil and sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant.
- Add the green lentils, water or broth, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the Instant Pot.
- Close the lid, set the valve to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
- Once done, allow for a natural pressure release for 5 minutes, then do a quick release.
- Stir the lentils and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes:
This recipe is perfect for a quick and healthy meal. You can also add other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
Nutrition value:
Calories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 36gProtein: 13gFat: 1gSodium: 300mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 15gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 100IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 4mg
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Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
Read more: Instant Pot Lentil Soup Recipe Guide
Meal Prep and Storage Tips for Instant Pot Green Lentils
Make Ahead Instructions
- Cook the green lentils according to the recipe.
- Let the lentils cool completely.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Instructions
- Cook the green lentils as directed.
- Allow the lentils to cool down.
- Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
Green lentils are a great source of plant-based protein and are rich in fiber, making them a nutritious addition to vegetarian and vegan diets.
Common Questions About Cooking Green Lentils in the Instant Pot
FAQ:
Can I use red lentils instead of green lentils in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute red lentils for green lentils in this recipe. Just note that red lentils tend to cook faster and may become mushier compared to green lentils.
How can I add more flavor to the lentils?
To enhance the flavor of the lentils, you can add additional spices like smoked paprika, turmeric, or a dash of hot sauce. You can also sauté the onions and garlic a bit longer for a deeper flavor profile.
Can I double the recipe in the instant pot?
Yes, you can double the recipe in the instant pot as long as you do not exceed the maximum fill line. Ensure there is enough liquid to cover the lentils and adjust the seasoning accordingly.
Do I need to soak the green lentils before cooking?
No, you do not need to soak the green lentils before cooking them in the instant pot. Simply rinse them under cold water and they are ready to use.
How should I store any leftover lentils?
Store any leftover lentils in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage. Just reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop when ready to eat.
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