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Instant Pot Red Lentil Soup

Instant Pot Red Lentil Soup

This comforting Instant Pot Red Lentil Soup is the ultimate solution for a quick and nutritious meal! Packed with flavor and healthy lentils, it’s a warm hug in a bowl. Perfect for busy weeknights, you’ll want to make it tonight!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 2 servings
Course: Soups
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300

Ingredients
  

  • 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 onion chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon ground turmeric
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon New Mexico chile powder
  • 1 quart chicken stock preferably homemade
  • ½ cup canned fire roasted diced tomatoes and their juices
  • 1 heaping cup dried red lentils
  • Juice of ½ lemon plus more to taste

Equipment

  • Cutting Board
  • Wooden Spoon
  • Chef's Knife
  • Instant Pot
  • Baking Sheet

Method
 

  1. Using the saute function, warm 3 tablespoons of olive oil on high in an Instant Pot. When it’s hot, stir in the onion and a pinch of kosher salt, cooking until soft (about 5 minutes).
  2. Stir in the garlic, tomato paste, cumin, salt, turmeric, pepper, and chile powder, and cook, stirring frequently, until fragrant (about 2 minutes).
  3. Add the stock, tomatoes, lentils, and 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the pot. Cover and cook on high pressure for 6 minutes.
  4. Allow the pressure to release naturally for up to 10 minutes. If it doesn’t release by then, release the remaining pressure manually.
  5. Stir in lemon juice, then season to taste with additional salt and pepper.
  6. To serve, divide soup between 2 bowls (for a main course) or 4 bowls (for a starter), then top each with a dollop of Greek yogurt, a scattering of mint leaves, and a sprinkling of sea salt.
  7. Serve warm flatbread on the side for dipping.

Notes

  • Tip 1: Allow the soup to cool before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for up to five days.
  • Tip 2: This soup freezes beautifully! Portion it out into containers and store for up to three months. Just reheat when you’re ready to enjoy it.
  • Tip 3: This soup pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or warm pita bread. Consider adding a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
  • Tip 4: For the best experience, serve the soup warm, not boiling. This enhances the flavors without overwhelming your palate.
  • Tip 5: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or coriander can elevate the presentation and flavor.