There is something incredibly comforting about a warm, hearty bowl of stew, and that’s exactly what you get with this delightful Instant Pot Lentil Stew Recipe. It’s a vibrant mix of smoky bacon, tender green lentils, and a melange of fresh veggies all swimming in a rich, tomato-infused broth. Thanks to the magic of the Instant Pot, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you crave homemade goodness without hours in the kitchen. Trust me, once you try this stew, it’ll become one of those forever favorites you keep coming back to.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Instant Pot Lentil Stew Recipe lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients that each bring their own special touch. From the smoky depth of bacon to the earthy lentils and the aromatic spices, every component plays an important role in the stew’s flavor, texture, and color.
- Bacon (6 strips, cut into small pieces): Adds a smoky, crispy base that infuses the stew with incredible flavor.
- Onion (1/2 medium, chopped): Offers sweetness and subtle pungency that balances the richness.
- Carrots (2 medium, peeled & chopped): Provide natural sweetness and a lovely orange hue.
- Celery (2 sticks, chopped): Contributes a subtle savory crunch that brightens the stew.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Brings an aromatic warmth and depth that wakes up every bite.
- Green lentils (1 pound, uncooked): The hearty, protein-packed star that gives the stew its comforting body.
- Tomato sauce (1 can, 14 fluid ounces): Adds a gentle tang and rich red color that makes the stew shine.
- Chicken broth (6 cups): The flavorful liquid base that melds everything together beautifully.
- Smoked paprika (1 teaspoon): Enhances the smoky notes and adds vibrant color.
- Ground cumin (1/4 teaspoon): Offers a subtle earthiness and warmth that rounds out the seasoning.
- Salt & pepper (to taste): Essential for bringing all the flavors into delicious harmony.
How to Make Instant Pot Lentil Stew Recipe
Step 1: Crisp the Bacon
Start by cutting your bacon into small pieces using kitchen shears for ease. Toss them into your Instant Pot and hit the sauté button. Cook the bacon, stirring occasionally, until it’s just about crispy and the fat has rendered out. This step is crucial because that flavorful bacon fat will be the foundation of your stew’s smoky richness.
Step 2: Sauté the Veggies
While the bacon is working its magic, prep your onion, carrots, and celery by chopping them finely. Once the bacon is ready, add these veggies to the pot and continue sautéing for about 4 to 5 minutes. This softens the vegetables and releases their natural sweetness, layering flavor early on.
Step 3: Add Garlic
Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for 30 seconds. Garlic cooks quickly and you just want to wake up its aroma without letting it burn, which would make the stew taste bitter.
Step 4: Combine Lentils and Liquids
Now, pour in the green lentils, tomato sauce, and chicken broth. Sprinkle in the smoked paprika and ground cumin. Give everything a good stir, making sure nothing is sticking to the bottom of the pot. This helps prevent any burning while pressure cooking.
Step 5: Pressure Cooking
Seal the Instant Pot lid and ensure the valve is set to “sealing.” Set your timer to cook on high pressure for 15 minutes. It usually takes about 10 to 15 minutes for the Instant Pot to reach the correct pressure before the cooking countdown begins—so use that time to tidy up or set the table.
Step 6: Natural Pressure Release
Once cooking completes, allow the pressure to release naturally for 15 minutes. This gentle release helps the lentils continue cooking softly, perfecting the stew’s texture.
Step 7: Final Seasoning and Adjustments
After the natural release, do a quick release to let out any remaining pressure. Open the lid and taste your stew, adding salt and pepper as needed. If you prefer a slightly thinner stew or want more broth, throw in extra chicken broth and press “sauté” to warm it through until it reaches the consistency you love.
How to Serve Instant Pot Lentil Stew Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a few lemon wedges on the side can brighten this lentil stew beautifully. A dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream adds a creamy tang that contrasts the smoky depth perfectly. Don’t forget a grind of fresh black pepper on top to kick things up a notch.
Side Dishes
This Instant Pot Lentil Stew Recipe stands well on its own but pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, warm naan, or even fluffy rice for soaking up every last drop of flavorful broth. A simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette also complements the hearty stew by adding freshness to your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a cozy dinner party vibe, serve the stew in rustic bowls with a sprinkle of toasted nuts or seeds on top for extra texture. If you’re feeling fancy, drizzle a little chili oil or smoked paprika oil to enhance those smoky notes. Even a garnish of grated sharp cheddar or crumbled feta can transform your lentil stew into something extra special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This stew keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 4 days. Store it in an airtight container to maintain its flavors and moisture. The lentils will continue to soak up the broth over time, getting even more luscious the next day.
Freezing
Want to prep in advance or stash some for a rainy day? Freeze the lentil stew in portioned containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 3 months. Just make sure it’s completely cooled before freezing to preserve texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or water if it has thickened too much in the fridge or freezer. You can also reheat in the microwave, but stir midway through to ensure even heating. This Instant Pot Lentil Stew Recipe tastes just as delicious the next day!
FAQs
Can I make this Instant Pot Lentil Stew Recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just skip the bacon, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can add a splash of smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke to keep that smoky flavor.
What lentils work best for this stew?
Green lentils are ideal here because they hold their shape well during pressure cooking. Brown lentils can work, too, but red or yellow lentils tend to break down more, creating more of a puree than a stew.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Yes, dried herbs can be used in a pinch! Use about one-third the amount of dried herbs as fresh since they have a more concentrated flavor. Adding them during the sauté step allows the flavors to bloom nicely.
Is it possible to make the stew spicier?
Definitely. Add cayenne pepper, crushed red pepper flakes, or even diced jalapeños along with the other spices. Adjust gradually to suit your heat tolerance.
Can I double the recipe?
You can double the ingredients, but be careful not to fill your Instant Pot beyond the maximum fill line. If doubling, you might need to cook in two batches or use a larger pressure cooker.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Instant Pot Lentil Stew Recipe highly enough for anyone craving a comforting, flavorful, and easy meal that comes together in no time. It’s pure warmth in a bowl, perfect for busy days or cozy nights in. Give it a try—you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!
