Instant Pot Curried Lentil & Potato Stew

If you’re craving something warm, comforting, and packed with wholesome flavors, you’re going to love this recipe for Instant Pot Curried Lentil & Potato Stew. It’s a hearty, vibrant dish that comes together quickly, thanks to the magic of the Instant Pot. The blend of tender lentils and soft potatoes in a fragrant curry sauce makes this stew a perfect cozy meal any day of the week. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and full of rich spices that make each bite satisfying and nourishing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Speedy Comfort Food: Made in the Instant Pot to deliver a delicious meal in under an hour, perfect for busy days.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Uses simple pantry staples like lentils and potatoes that are both nutritious and budget-friendly.
• Rich, Layered Flavors: A warm blend of curry spices infuses the stew, creating an irresistible taste profile.
• One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup since everything cooks in one pot, making weekday dinners a breeze.
• Versatile Meal: Ideal for vegans and vegetarians but hearty enough to satisfy anyone looking for a filling stew.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Instant Pot Curried Lentil & Potato Stew uses straightforward ingredients that each play a vital role in bringing the dish’s comforting texture and bold flavor to life. From earthy lentils to aromatic spices, every component contributes to making this stew a bowl of pure delight.

• Brown or green lentils: The protein-packed base providing a creamy texture after cooking.
• Potatoes: Cubed and tender, they add heartiness and soak up the curry flavors beautifully.
• Onion and garlic: Classic aromatics that build the stew’s savory foundation.
• Curry powder: The star spice blend delivering warmth and complexity.
• Turmeric and cumin: Complement the curry powder with earthiness and gentle heat.
• Vegetable broth: Adds moisture and depth, turning the ingredients into a luscious stew.
• Diced tomatoes: Bring a subtle acidity and rich color to balance the spices.
• Coconut milk (optional): For creaminess and a slightly sweet finish that softens the spices.
• Salt and pepper: To taste, enhancing all the natural flavors.
• Fresh cilantro: For garnish, adding a fresh herbal note.

Variations for Instant Pot Curried Lentil & Potato Stew

Feel free to tailor this stew to suit your taste buds or dietary preferences. It’s remarkably adaptable, making it easy to swap ingredients or spice levels while still enjoying that comforting curry goodness.

• Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes or chopped chili for extra heat if you love a fiery stew.
• Sweet twist: Stir in some diced sweet potatoes or carrots for a hint of natural sweetness.
• Protein boost: Toss in chickpeas or tofu cubes for added protein variety.
• Greens addition: Mix in spinach or kale near the end for extra nutrients and color.
• Nutty flavor: Sprinkle toasted cashews or serve with a dollop of yogurt for a creamy contrast.

How to Make Instant Pot Curried Lentil & Potato Stew

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

Set your Instant Pot to the sauté setting and heat a bit of oil. Add finely chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant to form the flavorful base of the stew.

Step 2: Add Spices

Stir in the curry powder, turmeric, and cumin, letting the spices toast for about a minute. This step intensifies their aroma and deepens the stew’s flavor.

Step 3: Combine Lentils, Potatoes, and Liquids

Add the rinsed lentils and diced potatoes to the pot, then pour in the diced tomatoes and vegetable broth. Give everything a good stir to mix all ingredients evenly.

Step 4: Pressure Cook

Secure the lid and set your Instant Pot to high pressure for 15 minutes. This ensures the lentils and potatoes cook perfectly tender and meld with the spices.

Step 5: Quick Release and Finish

When the cooking cycle is complete, carefully release the pressure. Stir in coconut milk if using, and season with salt and pepper to your preference. Let the stew sit for a few minutes to thicken slightly.

Pro Tips for Making Instant Pot Curried Lentil & Potato Stew

• Rinse lentils well: Removing excess starch prevents the stew from becoming overly thick or gummy.
• Cut potatoes evenly: This ensures uniform cooking and prevents some pieces from turning mushy while others are underdone.
• Don’t skip toasting spices: It unlocks the essential oils and maximizes flavor intensity.
• Adjust liquid levels: Add more broth if you prefer a soupier consistency; reduce liquid slightly for a thicker stew.
• Use natural pressure release cautiously: Quick release keeps vegetables firm, but natural release can further develop flavors.

How to Serve Instant Pot Curried Lentil & Potato Stew

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh cilantro brightens the stew, while a dollop of plain yogurt or a squeeze of lime juice adds a refreshing contrast to the rich, spiced base.

Side Dishes

Serve this stew with fluffy basmati rice, warm naan bread, or even over quinoa to soak up all that delicious sauce and add a satisfying carb element.

Creative Ways to Present

For entertaining, spoon the stew into small bowls and garnish with toasted coconut or crushed nuts for a textured topping that looks as impressive as it tastes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen over time, making it a perfect next-day meal.

Freezing

This Instant Pot Curried Lentil & Potato Stew freezes beautifully. Portion into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 3 months for a quick, wholesome meal anytime.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water or broth if the stew has thickened too much during refrigeration.

FAQs

Can I use red lentils instead of brown or green lentils?

Yes, but red lentils cook faster and can become mushy, so reduce cooking time accordingly and keep an eye on the texture to avoid overcooking.

Is this stew vegan and gluten-free?

Absolutely! All ingredients in this recipe are plant-based and naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for both diets.

Can I make this recipe on the stovetop?

Yes, you can simmer the ingredients in a pot on the stove, but it will take longer—about 40 to 50 minutes of cooking versus the Instant Pot’s 15 minutes.

What’s the best way to thicken the stew if it’s too watery?

Simmer the stew without the lid after pressure cooking to reduce and thicken, or mash a portion of the lentils and potatoes to naturally thicken the liquid.

Can I double the recipe for meal prep?

Definitely! Just make sure your Instant Pot is large enough to accommodate the extra volume, or cook in batches. Cooking times remain similar with increased quantity.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like the cozy feeling a warm bowl of Instant Pot Curried Lentil & Potato Stew brings, especially when it’s quick to make and packed with wholesome ingredients. Whether you’re new to pressure cooking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is a wonderful staple to have on hand for nourishing, flavorful meals. Give it a try and enjoy every comforting spoonful!

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