Unlock the secrets of authentic Indian cooking with the convenience of your Instant Pot! Imagine savoring a warm, comforting bowl of perfectly cooked lentils, infused with aromatic spices and garnished with fresh cilantro—all in just 25 minutes! Whether you're a busy professional or a culinary enthusiast, this recipe promises to deliver a delightful experience that will transport your taste buds straight to the heart of India. Get ready to impress your family and friends with a dish that’s not only easy to make but also bursting with flavor. Dive into this simple yet delicious recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Indian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup lentils (any variety)
- 4 cups water
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, grated
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp cumin powder
- Salt to taste
- 2 tbsp oil or ghee
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Rinse the lentils thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear, removing any debris or small stones.
- Turn on the Instant Pot and select the "Sauté" mode. Add oil or ghee and let it heat for 30 seconds.
- Add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and slightly golden, approximately 2-3 minutes.
- Introduce minced garlic and grated ginger, stirring quickly to prevent burning and release their aromatic flavors.
- Sprinkle turmeric powder, cumin powder, and salt. Stir the spices to coat the onions evenly and bloom their flavors for about 30 seconds.
- Add the rinsed lentils and water to the Instant Pot. Stir gently to combine all ingredients.
- Close the Instant Pot lid, set the valve to sealing position, and select "Pressure Cook" on high pressure for 10-12 minutes.
- Once cooking completes, allow natural pressure release for 5 minutes, then carefully do a quick release.
- Open the lid and gently stir the lentils. If too thick, add a little hot water to achieve desired consistency.
- Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro before serving hot with rice or flatbread.
Tips
- Rinse Your Lentils: Always rinse lentils under cold water until the water runs clear. This step removes any debris and helps prevent a gritty texture in your dish.
- Sauté for Flavor: Take the time to sauté the onions until they are golden. This caramelization enhances the overall flavor of your dish, making it richer and more aromatic.
- Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground spices can elevate the taste of your lentils. If possible, use whole spices and grind them just before cooking for maximum flavor.
- Adjust Consistency: After cooking, if the lentils are too thick for your liking, simply add a splash of hot water to reach your desired consistency.
- Serve with Accompaniments: This dish pairs wonderfully with rice or flatbreads like naan or roti. Consider serving it with a side of yogurt or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Experiment with Variations: Feel free to add vegetables such as spinach or tomatoes during the cooking process for added nutrition and flavor.
- Garnish Generously: Don’t skimp on the cilantro! A generous sprinkle of fresh herbs not only adds a burst of color but also enhances the dish's freshness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
