Lentils And Rice: Instant Pot Comfort in Every Spoonful

A comforting and nutritious plant-based meal, Lentils and Rice is quick to make in the Instant Pot, perfect for busy weeknights.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 24

Natural Release Time 15

Total Time 49

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Comfort Food, Plant-based

Calories: 380

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Base

1 medium Red Onion Adds sweetness and depth of flavor; substitute with yellow or white onion if needed.
1 medium Red Bell Pepper Provides sweetness and vibrant color; any color pepper can be used.
8 ounces White Mushrooms Contributes umami and texture; brown mushrooms make a suitable swap.
1 tablespoon Oil Used for sautéing vegetables; light-flavored oils like coconut oil or vegetable oil work well.
1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Enhances overall flavor; fresh minced garlic can be substituted.
1 teaspoon Ground Cumin Adds warmth and earthiness; ensure it is pure cumin, free from additives.
1 tablespoon Curry Powder For spice and flavor complexity; garam masala can serve as a substitute.

For the Grains

1 cup Dry Brown Lentils The main source of protein; avoid red lentils.
1 cup Brown Basmati Rice Serves as the grain component; quick-cooking rice should not be used.

For Cooking

4 cups Vegetable Broth Opt for low-sodium and sugar-free options.
to taste Salt Added just before serving for best flavor.
to taste Black Pepper Added just before serving for best flavor.

Equipment

Instant Pot

Method

Step-by-Step Instructions

Set your Instant Pot to the sauté function and heat a tablespoon of oil. Add finely chopped red onion, diced red bell pepper, and sliced white mushrooms. Cook for about 5–7 minutes until the onions are translucent and fragrant.
Sprinkle in garlic powder, ground cumin, and curry powder into the sautéed vegetables. Stir continuously for about 1 minute to toast the spices.
Add dry brown lentils and brown basmati rice to the pot, mixing well to ensure they are thoroughly coated.
Pour in the vegetable broth while gently mixing everything together, ensuring that the lentils and rice are submerged.
Cancel the sauté mode, secure the lid on your Instant Pot, ensuring the vent is sealed. Set to high pressure for 24 minutes.
After 24 minutes, allow for a natural pressure release for 15 minutes.
Open the lid and gently fluff the Lentils and Rice with a fork. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 380kcalCarbohydrates: 65gProtein: 18gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gSodium: 420mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 15gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 70mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 4mg

Notes

Customize with your favorite veggies or spices, or use leftovers for wraps or salads.

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