Introduction

Instant Pot lentils offer a quick and easy way to prepare a nutritious and versatile ingredient. Whether you prefer them firm or soft, this method ensures perfectly cooked lentils every time.

A white plate is filled with a single flat layer of cooked dark brown lentils, with a few fresh green parsley leaves scattered on top as garnish. The plate sits on a wooden surface with a white marbled background. Behind the plate, there is a glass jar filled with uncooked brown lentils, slightly blurred. A silver fork is placed next to the plate on the wooden surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 cup lentils
1 ¾ cups water
Seasoning, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Add the lentils, water, and your preferred seasoning to the Instant Pot.
Step 2: Seal the lid and select the PRESSURE COOK or MANUAL setting. Set the timer to 4 minutes for red lentils, or 8 to 15 minutes for green or brown lentils, depending on your desired firmness—shorter for firm lentils, longer for mushier ones.
Step 3: Once cooking is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes.
Step 4: Carefully turn the valve to perform a quick release, following your Instant Pot manufacturer’s instructions.
Step 5: Remove the lid and let the lentils cool before using them in your favorite recipes.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, sauté onions, garlic, or spices in the Instant Pot before adding lentils and water.
Experiment with different seasonings like cumin, curry powder, or bay leaves to suit your dish.
Adjust the water slightly if you prefer drier or more stew-like lentils.

Storage

Store cooked lentils in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to maintain moisture.

How to Serve

A white plate filled with one thick layer of cooked brown lentils, slightly glossy and textured, spread evenly across the plate. Four small bright green parsley leaves lie scattered on top, adding contrast. Behind the plate, on a wooden surface, there is a clear glass jar filled with dry brown lentils and two dry bay leaves laying flat. The background features a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use dried lentils straight away?

Yes, dried lentils can be cooked directly in the Instant Pot without soaking, which is part of what makes this method so convenient.

What if my lentils are mushy or too firm?

Adjust the cooking time next time based on your preference: less time for firmer lentils, more time for softer ones. Different lentil varieties may also require slight timing changes.

Instant Pot Lentils Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 85 reviews

This Instant Pot Lentils recipe offers a quick and easy way to prepare perfectly cooked lentils using your pressure cooker. Ideal for a variety of dishes, these lentils can be adjusted for texture from firm to mushy by simply changing the cooking time. With minimal ingredients and effortless preparation, this recipe is perfect for nutritious meals in no time.

Author: Maya
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 4 to 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 to 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Dish
Method: Instant Pot
Cuisine: International
Diet: Vegan

Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients

1 cup lentils (red, green, or brown)
1 ¾ cups water
Seasoning to taste (such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, or herbs)

Instructions

Add Ingredients: Place 1 cup of your chosen lentils into the Instant Pot along with 1 ¾ cups of water. Add your preferred seasoning to taste.
Seal and Cook: Close and seal the Instant Pot lid. Select the PRESSURE COOK or MANUAL setting and set the timer based on the type of lentils: 4 minutes for red lentils, or 8 to 15 minutes for green or brown lentils. Choose the lower time for firmer lentils or the higher time for a softer, mushier texture.
Release Pressure: Once cooking is complete, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes to continue gently cooking the lentils.
Quick Release: After the natural release, carefully turn the valve to perform a quick release, following your Instant Pot’s instructions to safely release any remaining pressure.
Cool and Use: Open the lid, allow the lentils to cool slightly, and then use them as desired in salads, soups, stews, or side dishes.

Notes

For firmer lentils suitable for salads, use shorter cooking times as suggested.
To avoid overcooking and mushy lentils, stick to the recommended pressure cook times and natural release period.
Adjust seasoning after cooking to taste; adding salt before cooking can sometimes toughen lentils slightly.
These lentils can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for longer storage.
Rinse lentils thoroughly before cooking to remove any dust or debris.

Keywords: Instant Pot lentils, pressure cooker lentils, easy lentil recipe, healthy lentils, vegan lentils, quick lentils