How to Cook Red Lentils (Instant Pot or Stove)

5 from 31 votes

Discover our friendly tips to cook red lentils in the Instant Pot or on the stove. Enjoy this healthy, delicious plant-based protein!

Prep Time3

Cook Time7

Total Time10

Course: Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Keyword: red lentils, whole grains, instant pot lentils, red lentils instant pot

Servings:

Calories: 159kcal

Spread lentils onto a sheet of parchment paper and sort through them, discarding any debris you may find.
Transfer lentils to a fine mesh strainer, and rinse with tap water until water runs clear.

Add lentils and hot water or broth to a large saucepan over high heat.
Bring to a boil, then immediately lower heat to medium. Cover the pan with a lid and simmer for 5-10 minutes. If using them in another dish, 5 minutes should be ideal. As a standalone side dish, cook them 7 minutes to 10 minutes for a softer, creamer lentil dish.
Season with salt and pepper or other seasonings of your choice.

Add lentils and hot water or broth to the inner pot. Cover IP with lid and close the vent to seal. Set manually to cook at high pressure for 3 minutes.
Once the pressure cooking is done, perform a quick release by carefully turning or pressing the pressure release on top of the pot.
Remove lid and season red lentils with salt and pepper or other seasonings of your choice.

If you prefer a firmer texture, cooking red lentils on the stovetop is the best method.

Recipe Variations:

Curried - Add 1–2 teaspoons of curry powder and a pinch of turmeric to the water or broth before cooking for a warm, spiced flavor.
Garlic Herb - Stir in minced garlic, fresh parsley, and a drizzle of olive oil after cooking for a fragrant and savory side dish.
Tomato Basil - Cook the lentils in vegetable broth with ½ cup of crushed tomatoes, then finish with chopped fresh basil for a bright, Italian-inspired variation.

Storing Instructions:

Cooked pulses typically keep for up to 1 week in the refrigerator. However, they lose their moisture pretty quickly, so it’s best to eat them sooner rather than later. Red lentils can also be frozen for up to 6 months.
They can be reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop in additional water or broth until warmed through.