Are you ready to elevate your meals with a delicious and nutritious dish that’s as easy as it is satisfying? Look no further than these Instant Pot Roasted Lentils! In just 20 minutes, you can whip up a hearty serving of tender lentils infused with savory flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing. Perfect as a side dish or a versatile ingredient for salads and wraps, this recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights. Dive into this culinary adventure and discover how simple it is to create a wholesome meal that your whole family will love!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: Global
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup lentils (any variety)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Water as needed
Instructions
- Begin by measuring out 1 cup of lentils. Rinse them under cold water in a fine-mesh strainer to remove any dirt or debris. Drain well.
- In the Instant Pot, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and set the pot to the 'Sauté' function. Allow the oil to heat for about 1 minute until it shimmers.
- Once the oil is hot, add the rinsed lentils to the pot. Stir them gently for about 1-2 minutes to coat them in the oil and toast them slightly, enhancing their flavor.
- Add 1 teaspoon of garlic powder and 1 teaspoon of onion powder to the lentils. Stir well to combine the spices with the lentils, allowing them to toast for an additional minute.
- Pour in enough water to cover the lentils by about 1 inch. This usually requires about 3 cups of water, but adjust as needed based on your desired consistency.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Remember that you can adjust the seasoning later, so start with a small amount.
- Secure the lid on the Instant Pot, ensuring the valve is set to the 'Sealing' position. Cancel the 'Sauté' function and select the 'Manual' or 'Pressure Cook' setting. Set the timer for 15 minutes.
- Once the cooking time is complete, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for about 5 minutes, then carefully switch the valve to 'Venting' to release any remaining pressure.
- When the pressure has fully released and the pin drops, carefully open the lid. Stir the lentils gently and check for doneness. If they are not quite tender, you can add a little more water and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes under pressure.
- Once the lentils are cooked to your liking, serve them warm as a side dish, or incorporate them into salads, wraps, or grain bowls. Enjoy your flavorful Instant Pot roasted lentils!
Tips
- Choose Your Lentils Wisely: While this recipe works with any variety of lentils, green and brown lentils hold their shape well after cooking, making them perfect for this dish. Red lentils will become softer and mushier, which may not be ideal if you're looking for a firmer texture.
- Rinse Thoroughly: Don’t skip the rinsing step! Rinsing the lentils under cold water helps remove any dirt or debris and prevents them from becoming too foamy during cooking.
- Adjust the Water: Depending on how you plan to use the lentils, you might want to adjust the amount of water. For a thicker consistency, use less water; for a soupier texture, add a bit more.
- Experiment with Spices: Feel free to get creative with your seasoning! Add cumin, smoked paprika, or even a dash of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
- Check for Doneness: After the initial cooking time, taste the lentils to ensure they are cooked to your liking. If they need more time, simply add a splash of water and pressure cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Store Leftovers Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. They also freeze well, so you can enjoy this nutritious dish anytime!
- Serve with Style: These lentils are incredibly versatile! Serve them as a side dish, toss them into salads, or use them as a filling for wraps and grain bowls to add a protein boost to your meals.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 230kcal
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 18g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
