Lentil Pressure Cooker Recipe (Fast & Flavorful)

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This is truly the best lentil pressure cooker recipe. Once you get comfortable with the cooking process, you’ll be able to customize this recipe every time and create your own favorite lentil recipes.

It’s my favorite lentil pressure cooker recipe because it works for almost every type of lentil and fits perfectly into vegan diets.

Serve these lentils in this lentil soup or in this Indian lentil curry.

🔍Quick Look: Lentil Pressure Cooker Recipe

• ⭐ Difficulty: Easy
• ⏱️ Total Time: 11-20 minutes- depending on the type of lentils
• 👥 Servings: 3 cups
• 📊 Calories: approximately 115 calories
• 👩🏼‍🍳 Flavor Profile: Depending on the variety, they can taste a little peppery, rich, or buttery, but overall, they’re savory, satisfying, and very grounding.

Before losing 125 pounds, I had never tried lentils.

Now I know better, and I love enjoying them in tacos, soups, burgers, and salads. They are so versatile and loaded with fiber and protein.

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Why You’ll Love This Instant Pot Lentils Recipe

If you’re new to pressure cooking or trying lentils for the first time, this is a no-stress, beginner-friendly recipe made with inexpensive ingredients you can find at any grocery store.

• It’s a fast meal and perfect for busy weeks
• Great for bowls, wraps, cold salads, and soups
• High in plant protein (seriously good grams of protein)
• Easy to turn into a main dish or a flavorful side dish

This is one of those healthy Instant Pot recipes you’ll make again and again.

Watch How to Make This Lentil Pressure Cooker Recipe

My Best Tips, Tricks, & Variations

• Cook lentils in broth instead of water for more flavor.
• Add tomatoes or vinegar after cooking so lentils soften properly.
• Brown/green lentils stay firm, red lentils turn creamy, and black lentils are hearty and earthy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Lentils
• Water or Vegetable broth like this Beef-Less Bouillon Broth Powder
• Optional Ingredients:
• Garlic
• Onion
• Bay leaves
• Lemon juice

That’s it! You don’t need any of the optional ingredients they are just for extra flavor.

How to Make This Lentil Pressure Cooker Recipe

Step 1: Prep Lentils

Add the lentils to a fine mesh strainer and rinse well under cold water. Remove any small debris or damaged lentils before cooking.

Step 2: Add the Lentils and Liquid

Add your dried lentils and liquid to the Instant Pot. I suggest starting with boiling water to speed up the process.

Step 3: Pressure Cooker

Lock the lid. Check that the steam valve is set to sealing. Cook on high pressure.

Step 4: Natural Release

Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes. Then carefully move the valve to “venting” to release any remaining pressure before opening the lid.

For more information about food safety, visit foodsafety.gov.

How To Make This Lentil Pressure Cooker Recipe

How to Store & Reheat

Fridge: Store cooked lentils in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days once they have cooled completely.

Freezer: You can also freeze them for up to 3 months for easy meal prep.

Reheat: To reheat, warm the lentils on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of water or broth to keep them from drying out. Stir occasionally and heat until warmed through.

FAQ’s

Types of Lentils and Uses

Firm lentils (hold their shape best)

• Brown lentils
• French lentils / French green lentils
• Black beluga lentils
• Most specialty lentils

These are perfect for bowls, wraps, tacos, burgers, and cold salads.

Softer lentils (break down more)

• Red lentils

These are perfect for making crackers, flatbread, tortillas, and in soup.

Cooking Time By Type of Lentil

Brown lentils, black lentils, French lentils, black beluga lentils –

• Cook time: 10 minutes
• Release: natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure

Red lentils –

• Cook time: 5 minutes
• Release: natural release for 5 minutes, then quick release

How To Use Cooked Lentils

These are a great addition to:

• grain bowls with brown rice
• lettuce salads and cold salads
• wraps and tacos
• simple soups like vegan lentil soup
• creamy dishes like this Dal

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Before I say goodbye, I encourage you to take a moment to find out how I went from obese to 125-pound lighter -and how you can reach your goals, too!

About The Author

Although Cindy has lost 125 pounds, her path to success was not easy. Go here to read her incredible story, “From Morbidly Obese to Losing 125 Pounds and Becoming a Health Coach.” If you want to send Cindy a quick message, visit her contact page here.

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I hope you found this lentil pressure cooker recipe helpful and enjoy it as much as I do!

​Disclaimer: Please note that I am not a medical professional. The information provided on this blog is based on my personal experiences and research as a vegan recipe enthusiast. While I strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, it is important to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or a registered dietitian before making any significant changes to your diet, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or concerns. The recipes and tips shared on this blog are meant for general informational purposes and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice. Always prioritize your health and well-being by seeking personalized guidance from a qualified healthcare provider.