Effortless Instant Pot Lentil Curry: A Flavorful Weeknight Delight
Tired of complicated dinners? Craving something warm, flavorful, and easy? Look no further! This Instant Pot red curry lentil recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights and delicious leftovers. It’s a simple, one-pot dish that delivers big on taste and comfort.
Why You'll Love This Recipe:
- Quick and Easy: Dump everything in the Instant Pot, and in under 40 minutes, you'll have a flavorful meal ready to devour.
- Creamy and Spicy: The combination of warm spices, red curry paste, and coconut milk creates a comforting, spicy, and satisfying dish.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This recipe is perfect for meal prepping. It tastes even better the next day, and it freezes beautifully!
- Versatile: Serve it with rice, naan, or your favorite grain. Top with fresh greens, avocado, or a dollop of yogurt for an extra burst of flavor and texture.
Ingredients You'll Need:
For the Instant Pot:
- 1 1/2 cups brown lentils
- 1/2 large onion, diced
- 2 tablespoons red curry paste
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon curry powder
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch knob of ginger, minced
- A few shakes of cayenne pepper
- 2 cups water
- 14-ounce can tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
After Cooking:
- 3/4 cup coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons butter or ghee (optional)
- Fresh cilantro for garnishing
- Rice for serving
Simple Steps:
- Combine Ingredients: Add all the “Into the Instant Pot” ingredients into your Instant Pot.
- Pressure Cook: Secure the lid and cook on high pressure for 15 minutes. Allow a natural pressure release for 10 minutes.
- Add Creamy Touch: Stir in the coconut milk and butter (or ghee). Taste and add more salt or spices, if needed.
- Serve: Scoop the creamy lentils over rice, garnish with fresh cilantro, and enjoy!
Tips and Variations:
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red curry paste and cayenne pepper to control the spiciness of your dish.
- Extra Veggies: Feel free to add other veggies to your lentil curry, such as spinach, bell peppers, or sweet potatoes.
- Protein Boost: Add some chickpeas or chicken to make it even more substantial.
- Garnish Ideas: Top with fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime, a dollop of yogurt, or sliced green onions.
Other Ways to Make This Dish
- Crockpot Version: If you don't have an instant pot, this recipe can also be made in a crockpot, just check for cook times
- Stovetop Version: For a stovetop version, simmer the ingredients in a pot, check online for stovetop timing.
This Instant Pot red curry lentil recipe is a versatile dish that can easily become a staple in your household. It's perfect for those busy weeknights, provides great leftovers and is a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy!