I am just now realizing that I have not shared with you how to make simple, tasty, and nutritious lentils in the Instant Pot. Lentils are chuck full of nutrition and a great source of protein, especially if you are choosing to eat a more plant-based diet. Instant Pot lentils are the perfect legume to eat in the summer. They are hassle-free to make, especially if you make them in the Instant Pot. You don’t have to pre-soak or babysit them while they are cooking. I love my Instant Pot!

Lentils have a nutty, earthy flavor that can complement almost any meal. Put them in salads, spreads, soups, tacos, wraps, or just eat them flavored by themselves.

Lentil health benefits include:

1-Lower Cholesterol

Lentils help to reduce blood cholesterol since it contains high levels of soluble fiber.

2-Heart Healthy

Lentils are a great source of folate and magnesium, which are big contributors to heart health. Folate lowers your homocysteine levels, a serious risk factor for heart disease. Magnesium improves blood flow, oxygen, and nutrients throughout the body.

3-Stabilizes Blood Sugar

Lentils are full of fiber. Fiber-rich foods slow down digestion and stabilize blood sugar levels. This can be especially helpful for those with diabetes, insulin resistance, or hypoglycemia.

4- Digestive Health

Insoluble dietary fiber found in lentils helps prevent constipation and other digestive disorders like irritable bowel syndrome and diverticulitis.

5-Good Source of Protein

Of all legumes and nuts, lentils contain the third-highest levels of protein. This makes them a wonderful source of protein for those choosing to eat a plant-based diet.

Now you know some of the reasons why you may want to start adding this legume to your diet. Let’s get to how you make them, shall we?

There are a few different types of lentils. The reason I mention it is because some of them cook faster than others and you will want to make sure you are going to get the results you are looking for.

Types of lentils

Red Lentils: (Actually more orange than red, these lentils are commonly used in soft dishes like soups and curries. This is because they break down quickly and become creamy and mushy when you cook them, making them the perfect thickening agent for stews, soups, and purées.

Brown and Green Lentils: These are the most common lentils, and the ones you will most likely find in the store.  Brown and green lentils are pretty versatile. You can cook them less to get a more firm texture or longer for a softer texture.

Black Beluga Lentils: This type of lentil is a little more expensive. The other versions are VERY cheap. They hold their shape well when cooked, so they make a great side dish or a bed on which you can serve your meal. Black beluga lentils have a hearty, full-bodied flavor.

I am going to share with you how to make a basic pot of Brown & Green lentils.

Ingredients

• 2 teaspoons olive oil, coconut oil, or oil of your choice
• 1/2 small onion, diced (about 1/3 cup)
• 1 clove of garlic, minced
• 2 cups water, vegetable broth, or chicken broth (Using broth will add more flavor).
• 1 cup brown or green lentils
• 1/2 teaspoon  salt
• Don’t be afraid to experiment. Add other spices or seasonings. ( A little fresh minced ginger is very good).

Instant Pot Lentils instructions