Instant Pot® Soup with Lentils and Rice

This hearty and comforting soup comes together quickly in the Instant Pot®, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with nutritious lentils and tender rice, it’s a delicious way to warm up and stay satisfied.

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TIME50 min

SERVINGS4

RATING5.0 / 5

01 / WHAT YOU NEED

Ingredients

1 cup yellow lentils 1 cup uncooked white rice 1 tablespoon olive oil 2 small carrots, diced 1 stalk celery, diced ½ onion, diced 1 ½ teaspoons ground coriander 1 ½ teaspoons salt 1 teaspoon ground thyme ½ teaspoon dried rosemary ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper ¼ teaspoon chili powder 8 cups water 1 lemon, zested and juiced, divided

02 / HOW TO MAKE IT

Let's cook.

Step 1

Start by soaking the lentils and rice in cold water for at least 30 minutes. Once they’ve soaked, give them a good rinse and drain well, then set them aside.

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Step 2

Turn on your Instant Pot and choose the sauté setting. Add a bit of oil, then toss in the chopped carrots, celery, and onion. Cook them until they’re soft and fragrant, about 5 to 7 minutes. Next, stir in the coriander, salt, thyme, rosemary, pepper, and chili powder so the spices can toast a little and release their flavors.

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Step 3

Add the drained rice and lentils to the pot, then pour in the water and toss in the lemon zest. Secure the lid, making sure it’s locked in place. Set the pressure cooker to high pressure and cook for 12 minutes. It might take around 10 to 15 minutes for the pressure to build up before the timer starts.

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Step 4

When the cooking time is up, let the pressure release naturally for about 5 minutes, then carefully open the lid. Give the soup a good stir and finish it off with some fresh lemon juice. Taste it and adjust the seasoning if needed, then serve warm and enjoy!

03 / EXTRA DETAILS

Good to know.

Cook's tip

- Rinse the lentils and rice before cooking to remove excess starch and prevent clumping.
- Use low or no-sodium broth to control the salt level in the soup.
- If the soup is too thick after cooking, add a little hot water or broth to reach your desired consistency.

Why you’ll love it

This soup is a comforting and nutritious meal that comes together quickly in the Instant Pot®. It’s packed with protein and fiber from the lentils and rice, making it both filling and healthy. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite vegetables and spices.

Serving ideas

Serve the soup with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for extra flavor. A dollop of plain yogurt or a squeeze of lemon juice can add brightness. Pair it with crusty bread or a simple side salad for a complete meal.

Storage & leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if needed. This soup also freezes well for up to 3 months—thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.