Instant Pot Red Curry Lentils

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.

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