Introduction:
Lentil soup, a hearty and nutritious dish, has a rich history spanning centuries and across cultures. The cultivation of lentils dates back to ancient times, with evidence of their consumption in the Middle East, Asia, and Europe. Lentil soup recipes have been found in ancient Roman and Egyptian cookbooks, highlighting its enduring popularity.
As we fast forward to modern times, the Instant Pot has revolutionized home cooking. This versatile kitchen appliance has made it easier than ever to prepare wholesome and delicious dishes in a fraction of the time. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of Nutritious Instant Pot Lentil Soup, a contemporary twist on a classic recipe.
Preparation:
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
Start by gathering and preparing all your ingredients. Rinse and drain the lentils thoroughly. Finely chop the onion, dice the carrots and celery, and mince the garlic. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smoother.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Set your Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode and add the olive oil. Once it’s hot, add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften and the onion turns translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Add the Spices
Now, it’s time to infuse the soup with flavor. Add the ground cumin, ground coriander, smoked paprika, and dried thyme to the sautéed vegetables. Stir well to coat the vegetables in the aromatic spices. Sauté for an additional minute, allowing the spices to bloom.
Step 4: Combine the Ingredients
Pour in the rinsed lentils and diced tomatoes (with their juices). Stir to combine all the ingredients evenly. This hearty mix of lentils, veggies, and spices promises a flavorful and filling soup.
Step 5: Pour in the Broth
Pour in the vegetable broth, ensuring that all the ingredients are well submerged. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Give it a gentle stir.
Step 6: Pressure Cook
Secure the Instant Pot lid, ensuring the vent is sealed. Cancel the “Sauté” mode and select the “Pressure Cook” or “Manual” setting, depending on your model. Set the timer for 10 minutes on high pressure.
Step 7: Natural Release
Once the pressure cooking cycle is complete, allow the Instant Pot to release pressure naturally for about 10 minutes. After that, carefully perform a quick release to release any remaining pressure. Be cautious as steam will escape.
Step 8: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the Nutritious Instant Pot Lentil Soup into bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a lemon wedge for that extra zing. The acidity of the lemon adds a delightful dimension to the soup.
Step 9: Enjoy!
Serve the soup piping hot and savor the rich flavors and wholesome goodness of this Instant Pot lentil creation. It’s a comforting and nutritious meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
In conclusion, Nutritious Instant Pot Lentil Soup is a delightful marriage of tradition and technology. The Instant Pot’s efficiency brings this classic dish to your table with minimal effort and time, allowing you to enjoy the warm, hearty flavors of lentil soup whenever you desire. Whether as a starter, a main course, or even a packed lunch, this soup will undoubtedly become a household favorite. Bon appétit!
