Name: Instant Pot Lentil Tacos
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 2 cups dry lentils ((green or brown)); 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth ((or vegetable broth)); 1/2 cup salsa; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1/2 teaspoon cumin; 1 can diced tomatoes ((14.5-ounce can, with juices)); Corn or flour tortillas ((for serving)); Shredded cheese; Avocado ((chopped or guacamole)); Fresh cilantro; Green onion ((chopped)); Olives; Sour cream ((or plain Greek yogurt)); Salsa ((or hot sauce))

If you’re on the hunt for a delicious, nutritious, and incredibly easy weeknight meal, look no further than these Instant Pot Lentil Tacos. Packed with protein and fiber, lentils are the star of this dish, and when combined with bold spices and your favorite taco toppings, they transform into a hearty filling that will satisfy everyone at the table. The best part? You can have these flavorful tacos on the table in less than 30 minutes, thanks to the magic of the Instant Pot.

Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing

Instant Pot Lentil Tacos are a hit among friends and family for several reasons. First, they are vegetarian and can easily be made vegan, making them suitable for a variety of dietary preferences. Second, the blend of spices creates an explosion of flavor that rivals any meat-based taco. Finally, the customizable toppings allow everyone to build their own perfect taco, ensuring that even the pickiest eaters will find something they love.

Your Shopping Guide

Before you dive into making these delicious tacos, here’s what you’ll need to grab from the store:

2 cups dry lentils (green or brown)
4 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
1/2 cup salsa
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon cumin
Corn or flour tortillas (for serving)
Shredded cheese
14.5-ounce can diced tomatoes
Avocado, chopped (or guacamole)
Fresh cilantro
Green onion, chopped
Olives
Sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt)
Salsa or hot sauce

Setup & Equipment

Before you start cooking, gather the necessary tools to make your experience seamless:

Instant Pot – the star of the show!
Measuring cups and spoons
Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
Cutting board and knife
Serving plates for tacos

Cook Instant Pot Lentil Tacos Like This

Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps for a perfect batch of Instant Pot Lentil Tacos.

Step 1: Rinse and Prepare Lentils

Start by rinsing the dry lentils under cold water to remove any debris. This step is crucial for ensuring a clean flavor in your tacos.

Step 2: Add Ingredients to the Instant Pot

In your Instant Pot, combine the rinsed lentils, low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth), salsa, onion powder, garlic powder, chili powder, cumin, and the can of diced tomatoes (with juices). Stir everything together until well mixed.

Step 3: Cook Under Pressure

Secure the lid on your Instant Pot and set it to cook on high pressure for 15 minutes. Make sure the valve is set to sealing. Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural release for about 10 minutes before switching the valve to venting to release any remaining pressure.

Step 4: Mash and Adjust Seasoning

After all the pressure is released, open the lid carefully. Using a potato masher or fork, mash some of the lentils to create a thicker filling. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can add more chili powder or salt for extra flavor.

Step 5: Warm Tortillas

While the lentil mixture is cooling slightly, warm your corn or flour tortillas. You can do this on a skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side or wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave them for about 20 seconds.

Step 6: Assemble Your Tacos

Now it’s time to build your tacos! Spoon the lentil mixture into each tortilla and top with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheese, chopped avocado, fresh cilantro, green onions, olives, and a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt. Drizzle with extra salsa or hot sauce if desired.

Smart Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with your Instant Pot Lentil Tacos by trying out these substitutions:

Replace lentils with black beans or chickpeas for a different texture.
Use quinoa instead of lentils for a gluten-free option.
Try different spices like smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for extra heat.
Substitute the tortillas with large lettuce leaves for a low-carb version.

Troubleshooting Tips

Cooking with an Instant Pot can be straightforward, but here are a few tips to help you troubleshoot any issues:

If your lentils are too watery, you can simmer the mixture on the sauté setting for a few minutes to thicken it up.
For firmer lentils, reduce the cooking time to 10 minutes.
If the Instant Pot doesn’t come to pressure, check that the sealing ring is correctly in place and the valve is set to sealing.
Always ensure you have enough liquid in the pot; if it’s too dry, it may not reach pressure.

Save for Later: Storage Tips

If you have leftovers (which is unlikely, but possible!), here’s how to store them properly:

Let the lentil mixture cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the lentil mixture in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

Quick Questions

Can I make Instant Pot Lentil Tacos ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the lentil mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just warm it up when you’re ready to serve.

Are lentils healthy?

Yes! Lentils are an excellent source of protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making them a great addition to a balanced diet.

Can I use other types of lentils?

While green or brown lentils work best for this recipe, you can also use red lentils. Just be aware that they cook faster and will create a softer filling.

How can I spice up my lentil tacos?

Feel free to add more spices, fresh jalapeños, or even diced bell peppers to the lentil mixture for an extra kick!

Make It Tonight

There’s no excuse for not trying these Instant Pot Lentil Tacos tonight! They are quick, easy, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or prepping for a casual gathering, this recipe is sure to impress. Plus, with all the customizable toppings, everyone can enjoy their tacos just the way they like them. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and get ready for a taco night that will become a staple in your household!

These Instant Pot Lentil Tacos are more than just a meal; they are a celebration of flavors that brings everyone together. Happy cooking!