Certainly! Red Curry Lentils cooked in an Instant Pot make for a flavorful, nutritious, and quick meal. Here’s a step-by-step guide to preparing Instant Pot Red Curry Lentils:
Instant Pot Red Curry Lentils
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dried red lentils, rinsed and drained
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil or olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 2 tablespoons red curry paste (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for added heat)
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- 1 cup vegetable broth or water
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari (optional, for added umami)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Instant Pot:**
- Turn on the Instant Pot and select the "Saute" function. Adjust to "Normal" heat setting.
2. Saute the Aromatics:**
- Heat coconut oil or olive oil in the Instant Pot inner pot.
- Add chopped onion and saute for 3-4 minutes until softened.
3. Add Spices and Flavorings:**
- Stir in minced garlic, minced ginger, red curry paste, ground turmeric, ground cumin, ground coriander, and paprika (if using).
- Saute for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
4. Deglaze and Add Lentils:**
- Pour in the rinsed and drained red lentils. Stir to coat the lentils with the spice mixture.
5. Add Liquid:**
- Pour in the coconut milk and vegetable broth (or water).
- Add soy sauce or tamari (if using).
- Stir well to combine all ingredients in the pot.
6. Pressure Cook:**
- Close the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to the sealing position.
- Cancel the "Saute" function. Select the "Manual" or "Pressure Cook" function (depending on your Instant Pot model) and set it to cook on high pressure for 8 minutes.
7. Natural Release:**
- Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow the pressure to naturally release for 10 minutes. Then, carefully quick-release any remaining pressure by turning the valve to "Venting."
8. Serve:**
- Open the lid once the pressure has fully released and stir the lentils.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve the Instant Pot Red Curry Lentils hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro and lime wedges on the side.
Tips:
Consistency: If the lentils seem too thick after cooking, you can stir in a little more vegetable broth or coconut milk to reach your desired consistency.
Customize: Feel free to add more vegetables like spinach, diced bell peppers, or peas during cooking for extra nutrition and texture.
Storage: Leftover red curry lentils can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. They also freeze well for longer storage.
Instant Pot Red Curry Lentils are a satisfying dish on their own or can be served with rice or naan bread for a complete meal. They are packed with protein, fiber, and rich flavors from the coconut milk and curry paste. Enjoy this easy and delicious meal any day of the week.