Spicy Lentil Instant Pot Soup

Craving a warm, flavorful, and healthy meal that comes together quickly? Look no further than Spicy Lentil Instant Pot Soup! This recipe delivers a delightful kick of spice, hearty lentils, and a comforting warmth, all ready in under an hour thanks to the magic of the Instant Pot. It’s the perfect weeknight dinner solution, meal prep option, or cozy weekend lunch.

Why You’ll Love This Spicy Lentil Soup

This isn’t your average lentil soup. This version is elevated with layers of flavor and textures that will leave you feeling satisfied and energized.

• Speedy Cooking: The Instant Pot significantly cuts down on cooking time compared to traditional stovetop methods.
• One-Pot Wonder: Less cleanup is always a plus! Everything cooks together in the Instant Pot.
• Nutritious and Filling: Lentils are packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making this soup a healthy and substantial meal.
• Customizable Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili flakes or hot sauce to suit your personal preference.
• Freezer-Friendly: Make a big batch and freeze leftovers for future meals.

Ingredients for the Perfect Spicy Lentil Soup

The quality of your ingredients directly impacts the flavor of your soup. Opt for fresh vegetables and high-quality spices for the best results.

• Lentils: Brown or green lentils work best for this recipe. Avoid red lentils, as they tend to become mushy in the Instant Pot. One cup is typically ideal for a medium-sized batch.
• Aromatic Vegetables: Onion, carrots, and celery form the base of the soup, adding depth of flavor. About one medium onion, two carrots, and two celery stalks is generally sufficient.
• Garlic and Ginger: These add a pungent aroma and a subtle spicy kick. Aim for 2-3 cloves of garlic and about an inch of fresh ginger.
• Broth: Vegetable broth or chicken broth can be used, depending on your preference. Using a flavorful broth is crucial for a rich, savory soup. Four cups is a good starting point.
• Tomatoes: Diced tomatoes (canned or fresh) add acidity and sweetness to the soup. A 14.5-ounce can of diced tomatoes works perfectly.
• Spices: The spice blend is what truly elevates this soup. Common spices include cumin, coriander, turmeric, chili flakes, and smoked paprika. Start with a teaspoon of each, adjusting to taste.
• Lemon Juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens the flavors and adds a touch of acidity.
• Olive Oil: Used for sautéing the vegetables.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste.
• Optional Garnishes: Fresh cilantro, a dollop of yogurt or sour cream, or a drizzle of olive oil can add visual appeal and extra flavor.

Making Spicy Lentil Soup in the Instant Pot: Step-by-Step

Follow these simple steps to create a delicious and satisfying spicy lentil soup in your Instant Pot.

1. Sauté the Aromatics: Turn your Instant Pot to the “Sauté” setting. Add olive oil to the pot. Once heated, add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.

2. Add Garlic and Ginger: Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the pot and sauté for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

3. Bloom the Spices: Add the cumin, coriander, turmeric, chili flakes, and smoked paprika to the pot. Sauté for another minute, stirring constantly, to bloom the spices and release their flavors.

4. Add the Remaining Ingredients: Add the lentils, diced tomatoes, and broth to the pot. Stir to combine all the ingredients.

5. Pressure Cook: Secure the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to the “Sealing” position. Select the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” setting and set the timer for 12 minutes.

6. Release the Pressure: Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes. Then, carefully release any remaining pressure manually.

7. Adjust and Serve: Remove the lid carefully. Stir in the lemon juice. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If you prefer a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to partially or fully blend the soup.

8. Garnish and Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro, a dollop of yogurt, or a drizzle of olive oil. Serve hot.

Tips and Variations for the Best Soup

Experiment with different ingredients and techniques to create your own unique version of this spicy lentil soup.

• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili flakes to control the heat. You can also add a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
• Smoked Paprika: For an even deeper smoky flavor, use Spanish smoked paprika (pimentón).
• Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables, such as potatoes, sweet potatoes, spinach, or kale. If adding leafy greens, stir them in after the soup is cooked and let them wilt.
• Lentil Types: While brown and green lentils are preferred, you can experiment with other types of lentils. Just be aware that cooking times may need to be adjusted.
• Coconut Milk: For a creamier and slightly sweeter soup, stir in a can of coconut milk after cooking.
• Protein: Add shredded chicken, sausage, or tofu for extra protein. If using raw meat, sauté it with the vegetables before adding the other ingredients.
• Thickening: If the soup is too thin, you can thicken it by simmering it on the “Sauté” setting for a few minutes, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, you can blend a portion of the soup and stir it back in.
• Storage: Leftover soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are some common questions about making Spicy Lentil Instant Pot Soup.

Q: Can I make this soup without an Instant Pot?

A: Yes, you can make this soup on the stovetop. Sauté the vegetables in a large pot, then add the remaining ingredients. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.

Q: Do I need to soak the lentils before cooking?

A: No, you do not need to soak brown or green lentils before cooking in the Instant Pot. However, rinsing them before cooking is always a good idea.

Q: Can I use red lentils in this recipe?

A: While you can use red lentils, they tend to become very mushy in the Instant Pot. If you do use red lentils, reduce the cooking time to 8-10 minutes.

Q: Can I add meat to this soup?

A: Yes, you can add meat to this soup. Brown ground meat or sausage with the vegetables before adding the other ingredients. If using cooked meat, add it during the last few minutes of cooking to heat it through.

Q: How can I make this soup vegan?

A: To make this soup vegan, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and omit any dairy garnishes.

Q: Is this soup gluten-free?

A: Yes, this soup is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free broth.

Q: What if my soup is too thick?

A: If your soup is too thick, add more broth or water until it reaches your desired consistency.

Q: What if my soup is not spicy enough?

A: If your soup is not spicy enough, add more chili flakes, hot sauce, or cayenne pepper to taste.

Q: Can I freeze this soup?

A: Yes, this soup freezes well. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.