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Instant Pot Lentils and Rice

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Instant Pot Lentils and Rice is a healthy, hearty one-pot vegan meal made with simple ingredients like lentils, rice, onions, and warm spices. Cooked entirely in the Instant Pot, it’s perfect for a quick dinner or meal prep.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup brown or green lentils (uncooked, rinsed)
  • 1 cup long-grain brown rice or basmati rice (uncooked, rinsed)
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil or cooking oil
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 3.5 cups vegetable broth or water
  • Optional toppings: lemon juice, chopped parsley, fried onions

Instructions

  1. Set the Instant Pot to Sauté mode. Add oil and sauté onions for 3–4 minutes until soft.
  2. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Add lentils, rice, cumin, coriander, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
  4. Pour in vegetable broth and scrape the bottom of the pot to prevent sticking.
  5. Cancel Sauté mode. Seal the lid and set to Pressure Cook (Manual) on High for 15 minutes.
  6. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
  7. Open the lid and fluff the lentils and rice with a fork. Adjust seasoning as needed.
  8. Serve warm with optional toppings like lemon juice, fresh parsley, or crispy fried onions.

Notes

  • Rinse lentils and rice well to reduce excess starch and improve texture.
  • Use broth for richer flavor, or water with extra seasoning if preferred.
  • This dish thickens as it sits; add a splash of broth when reheating.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/instant-pot-lentils-and-rice/