Instant Pot Curried Lentil & Potato Stew

Enjoy a flavorful Instant Pot Curried Lentil & Potato Stew that’s easy, hearty, and ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for cozy meals, this dish combines tender lentils, soft potatoes, and rich spices in one comforting pot. Whether you’re new to cooking with an Instant Pot or a seasoned pro, this stew is a wonderful way to bring warmth and depth of flavor to your table quickly and effortlessly.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Convenient: Prepares a wholesome, warm meal in less than half an hour using the Instant Pot’s fast cooking.
• Hearty and Nutritious: Packed with protein-rich lentils, fiber, and vegetables for a balanced meal.
• Rich Aromatic Flavors: The curry spices create a deliciously fragrant stew without overpowering the natural taste of the lentils and potatoes.
• Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples that come together for a satisfying dinner with minimal effort.
• Versatile and Comforting: Perfect for chilly evenings or anytime you crave a cozy, flavorful stew.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Instant Pot Curried Lentil & Potato Stew relies on simple, wholesome ingredients, each playing an essential role in the stew’s texture, color, and overall taste. From earthy lentils to aromatic spices, every component adds depth.

• Brown lentils: Provides the stew’s hearty base with protein and fiber while retaining shape during cooking.
• Yukon gold potatoes: Adds comforting creaminess and body to the stew without becoming mushy.
• Onion and garlic: Offer a savory foundation and deepen the flavor profile.
• Curry powder: Blends warm spices that infuse the dish with classic Indian-inspired flavors.
• Tomato paste: Enhances richness and balances the spices with a gentle tang.
• Vegetable broth: Provides moisture and elevates overall flavor, making the stew satisfying and full-bodied.
• Coconut milk (optional): Adds luscious creaminess and smooths the spice levels if desired.
• Fresh cilantro: Offers a fresh, bright contrast when added as a garnish.

Variations for Instant Pot Curried Lentil & Potato Stew

Feel free to customize this Instant Pot Curried Lentil & Potato Stew to your taste or dietary needs. Swapping or adding ingredients is super easy and helps keep your meals exciting and personalized.

• Spice it up: Add chili powder or cayenne pepper for an extra kick of heat.
• Different lentils: Use red or green lentils to change texture and cooking time slightly.
• Vegetable swap: Add carrots, sweet potatoes, or bell peppers for more color and nutrients.
• Protein boost: Stir in cooked chickpeas or tofu cubes for extra plant-based protein.
• Make it vegan or dairy-free: Skip the coconut milk or replace with almond milk, and use vegetable broth to keep it plant-based.

How to Make Instant Pot Curried Lentil & Potato Stew

Step 1: Prepare the base

Turn the Instant Pot to sauté mode, then warm a bit of oil. Add finely chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant. This builds a savory foundation for the curry flavors to bloom.

Step 2: Add spices and tomato paste

Stir in the curry powder and tomato paste, letting them toast briefly with the aromatics to unlock their flavors. This simple step intensifies the stew’s rich taste.

Step 3: Combine lentils, potatoes, and broth

Add rinsed brown lentils, peeled and diced Yukon gold potatoes, and pour in vegetable broth. Give everything a good stir to ensure even cooking and flavor distribution.

Step 4: Pressure cook the stew

Seal the Instant Pot lid and set it to high pressure for 15 minutes. The quick cooking tenderizes the lentils and potatoes while infusing them with the warm, spiced broth.

Step 5: Add coconut milk and finish

Once cooking is complete, perform a quick pressure release. Stir in coconut milk for a creamy touch, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the stew sit for a few minutes before serving to meld the flavors.

Pro Tips for Making Instant Pot Curried Lentil & Potato Stew

• Rinse lentils well: Removes dust and reduces foam during cooking for a cleaner stew.
• Vegetable size consistency: Dice potatoes evenly to ensure they cook uniformly.
• Don’t overfill: Stay within the Instant Pot’s recommended liquid limits to avoid cooking errors.
• Quick release carefully: Use caution when releasing steam to prevent splattering.
• Adjust thickness: Add more broth or simmer on sauté mode if you prefer a thinner stew.

How to Serve Instant Pot Curried Lentil & Potato Stew

Garnishes

Top with fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime, and maybe a dollop of yogurt or coconut cream for added creaminess and a burst of freshness. Toasted nuts like cashews can add a lovely crunch.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside warm naan bread or basmati rice to soak up every drop of the delicious stew. A simple cucumber salad pairs beautifully, balancing the dish’s warmth with cool crunch.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the stew in individual bread bowls or stuffed bell peppers to impress guests while keeping the dish casual and comforting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover Instant Pot Curried Lentil & Potato Stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It tastes even better the next day once the flavors have deepened.

Freezing

This stew freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or water if the stew thickens too much during storage.

FAQs

Can I use red lentils instead of brown lentils?

Yes! Red lentils cook faster and will break down more, creating a thicker, creamier stew. Adjust cooking time accordingly to avoid mushiness.

Is this recipe vegan and gluten-free?

Absolutely! It’s naturally vegan and gluten-free as long as you use vegetable broth and coconut milk or a dairy-free alternative.

Can I make this stew on the stovetop?

Yes, though cooking times will be longer—expect around 45 minutes on medium heat, stirring occasionally until lentils and potatoes are tender.

How spicy is the Instant Pot Curried Lentil & Potato Stew?

The curry powder provides warm, mild spice by default, but you can easily adjust the heat by adding more chili or using a milder curry blend.

Can I use other types of potatoes?

Definitely! Yukon gold works best for the creaminess, but red potatoes or even sweet potatoes can be great substitutes with slight changes in texture and sweetness.

Final Thoughts

This Instant Pot Curried Lentil & Potato Stew is a true winner when you need a delicious, wholesome, and fuss-free meal. Its quick cooking time and satisfying flavors make it an ideal addition to your recipe collection. Give it a try, and enjoy all the cozy comfort this stew brings to your table!

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