Instant Pot Lentil Dish (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

01 - 1 medium ginger, grated (about 2 tablespoons).
02 - 1 teaspoon curry powder.
03 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
04 - 1/2 teaspoon turmeric.
05 - 1 tablespoon olive oil.
06 - Fresh lemon juice (for serving).
07 - 2 cloves garlic, minced.
08 - 1 medium onion, chopped.
09 - 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained.
10 - 1 teaspoon ground cumin.
11 - 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes.
12 - 1/2 teaspoon salt.
13 - Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish).
14 - Optional: red or yellow lentils (note: these may result in a slightly mushier texture).
15 - 1 cup coconut milk.
16 - 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for some heat).
17 - 2 cups vegetable broth or water.

# Instructions:

01 - Pull the lid off and pour in the coconut milk. Mix well to incorporate.
02 - Put the lentils, broth (or water), and diced tomatoes into the pot. Stir until everything is combined.
03 - Pick the "Saute" button on your Instant Pot and let the olive oil heat up. Toss in the onion and stir it around for about 5 minutes until it’s soft and slightly golden. Add garlic and ginger, stirring quickly for a minute so it doesn’t scorch.
04 - Sprinkle in cumin, curry powder, turmeric, salt, black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne if you like some heat. Let them cook for about a minute, stirring nonstop until they smell amazing.
05 - Pop the lid on, set the valve to "Sealing," and choose "Pressure Cook" or "Manual". Cook on high for 15 minutes. Wait 10 minutes after it's done for the pressure to naturally release, then finish by releasing whatever pressure remains.
06 - Add salt or spices if it needs a bit more kick. Dish it up warm with cilantro sprinkled on top and a good squeeze of lemon.

# Notes:

01 - Lentil Choices: Brown and green lentils work great here because they hold their shape. Red and yellow ones will cook faster but might turn mushy.
02 - No Instant Pot? Simmer the curry on the stove instead. Adjust the cooking time based on the lentils you're using.
03 - Effortless: After the initial cooking step, it’s mostly hands-off. Perfect for days when you're short on time.