Fall is chili season in my house, which usually means several pots simmering away on the stovetop all weekend long. But what if I told you could enjoy all that cozy, comforting flavor in a fraction of the time? My Instant Pot Lentil Chili brings that slow-cooked taste to your table in just minutes. It’s a hearty and flavorful dish that is a perfect addition to your repertoire of comfort foods.
This Instant Pot Lentil Chili recipe is not only quick and easy but also wonderfully versatile. It’s a great way to use up pantry staples and fresh vegetables, and it’s easily adaptable to your family’s preferences. Let’s get started and see what makes Instant Pot Lentil Chili more than your average meal.
Why You’ll Love It
This Instant Pot Lentil Chili isn’t just another chili recipe; it’s a weeknight game-changer! Here’s why it deserves a spot in your regular meal rotation:
- Quick and Easy: Thanks to the magic of the Instant Pot, this hearty and flavorful chili is ready in under 30 minutes, making it a perfect meal for busy weeknights.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins from the lentils and vegetables, this chili is as good for you as it tastes.
- Budget-Friendly: Lentils are an affordable protein source, and the other ingredients are pantry staples, making this a cost-effective meal.
- Flavorful and Versatile: This chili has a rich, complex flavor that’s sure to please everyone. Plus, it’s easily customizable to your family’s preferences. You can adjust the spice level, add other vegetables, or switch up the toppings.
Instant Pot Lentil Chili
- Total Time: 30
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A quick and easy Instant Pot lentil chili recipe, perfect for busy weeknights. Healthy, flavorful, and budget-friendly, this recipe is easily customizable to your taste.
Ingredients
- One large yellow onion, diced
- One bell pepper (orange or red), diced
- Minced garlic
- Chili powder
- Canned diced tomatoes
- 16 ounces green or brown lentils, rinsed
- Four cups vegetable broth
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
Instructions
- Dice onion and bell pepper. Mince garlic.
- Sauté onion and pepper in Instant Pot until softened.
- Add garlic and chili powder; cook until fragrant.
- Stir in tomatoes, lentils, and broth.
- Pressure cook on high for 15 minutes.
- Natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then manual release.
- Stir in cilantro and season with salt.
Notes
Browning the vegetables adds depth of flavor. Adjust chili powder for spice level. Allowing natural pressure release creates a creamier chili. Customize with toppings like avocado, cheese, or sour cream.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 15
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: American
Key Ingredients
Let’s gather our garden-fresh goodness and pantry staples! This Instant Pot Lentil Chili calls for simple ingredients, each playing a vital role in the symphony of flavors.
- Aromatic Base: One large yellow onion and one bell pepper (orange or red), diced, create the foundation of flavor. These will sauté beautifully in the Instant Pot, building a rich base for the chili.
- Flavor Boosters: Minced garlic and chili powder add depth and warmth, while canned diced tomatoes contribute sweetness and acidity.
- Hearty Lentils: 16 ounces of green or brown lentils are the stars of the show, providing a satisfying texture and a healthy dose of protein and fiber. You’ll find these in the dried bean aisle. Look for firm, unblemished lentils.
- Brothy Goodness: Four cups of vegetable broth bring everything together, adding moisture and a savory touch. It can be low-sodium if you prefer to control the salt later.
- Final Flourish: Fresh cilantro adds a refreshing herbal note to finish the dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Dice the onion and bell pepper. Mince the garlic and measure out your spices. Rinse the lentils in a fine-mesh strainer. Having everything prepped and ready to go makes the cooking process even smoother.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Preheat your Instant Pot using the SAUTE function. When the display says HOT, add the diced onion and bell pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until they soften and begin to brown, about 6 minutes. Don’t rush this step! The browned vegetables add a wonderful layer of flavor.
Step 3: Add the Flavor Boosters
Stir in the minced garlic and chili powder. Cook for another minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
Step 4: Incorporate the Remaining Ingredients
Add the diced tomatoes (with their juices!), lentils, and vegetable broth to the Instant Pot. Give everything a good stir.
Step 5: Pressure Cook
Place the lid on the Instant Pot and ensure the pressure knob is in the SEALING position. Press the CANCEL button to reset any previous settings. Select the MANUAL/PRESSURE COOK function and set the time for 15 minutes on high pressure.
Step 6: Natural Pressure Release
Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes (the display will show L:10). Then, carefully switch the pressure knob to the VENTING position to release any remaining pressure.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Remove the lid and stir in the chopped fresh cilantro. Season with salt to taste. Serve hot and enjoy!
Better-Than-Grandma Tips
For the best results with your Instant Pot Lentil Chili, keep these tips in mind:
- Don’t skip the sauté: Browning the onions and peppers adds a depth of flavor that you won’t achieve by simply dumping everything in the Instant Pot. Take the extra few minutes to build that flavorful base.
- Adjust the spice: If you prefer a milder chili, reduce the amount of chili powder. For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne or some diced jalapeños during the sauté step.
- Natural release for a creamier chili: Allowing the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes before manually venting helps the lentils break down slightly and creates a creamier texture.
- Customize with toppings: Get creative with your toppings! Chopped avocado, a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, shredded cheese, and a squeeze of lime juice are all delicious additions. Check out our guide to making kimchi for some inspired Korean flair.
Flavor Twists
This Instant Pot Lentil Chili is incredibly versatile. Here are a few ideas to customize it to your liking:
- Southwestern Flair: Add a can of drained and rinsed corn and black beans along with the tomatoes. Top with shredded cheddar cheese, chopped red onion, and a dollop of sour cream.
- Smoky Depth: Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a chipotle pepper in adobo sauce (minced) to the pot with the garlic and chili powder.
- Pumpkin Power: Stir in a cup of pumpkin puree along with the tomatoes for a creamy, autumnal twist. For more recipes featuring seasonal produce, check out our autumn desserts collection.
- Veggie-Packed: Add other diced vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms during the sauté step. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.
Can I use red lentils in this recipe?
Green or brown lentils hold their shape beautifully in the Instant Pot and work perfectly in this chili. Red lentils tend to break down more, creating a thicker, stew-like consistency. While you can certainly use them, adjust the cooking time down to about 10 minutes to prevent them from becoming mushy.
Can I freeze leftover chili?
Yes! This chili freezes wonderfully. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
How can I make this chili spicier?
For a spicier chili, increase the chili powder to 5 or 6 teaspoons, or add a pinch of cayenne pepper along with the chili powder. You can also add a diced jalapeño or other chili pepper to the pot with the onion and bell pepper.
Can I use a different type of broth?
Absolutely! You can replace the vegetable broth with chicken broth for a richer flavor. Or use bone broth for an even more intense, savory depth
How to Serve
This Instant Pot Lentil Chili is a meal in itself, but a few simple sides can turn it into a feast. Serve with crusty bread or cornbread for dipping. A side of brown rice or quinoa adds a boost of whole grains. For a lighter option, serve over a baked sweet potato and top with your favorite chili toppings. For an extra kick, don’t forget to try our delicious gochujang recipe.
That’s a Wrap
This Instant Pot Lentil Chili is more than just a weeknight meal; it’s a celebration of flavor and ease. Every spoonful offers a taste of home-cooked goodness without the hours of simmering. Whether you’re a seasoned Instant Pot user or just starting out, I hope this recipe becomes a staple in your kitchen. Now, share the warmth! Let your friends and family in on this delicious secret by sharing this recipe on social media. Don’t forget to check out our other delicious dinner recipes too!
