Instant Pot Lentil and Ham Soup

Instant Pot Lentil and Ham Soup

10 servings
Make this delicious ham and lentil soup in the Instant Pot without sacrificing all the flavor you’d get if you let it cook all day in your slow cooker.

Ingredients

  • olive oil
    1 tbsp
  • onion
    1 c
  • celery
    1 c
  • carrots

    1/4-inch slices

    1 c
  • garlic
    2 clove
  • cooked ham
    1 ½ c
  • lentils
    1 c
  • basil leaves
    ½ tsp
  • oregano
    ½ tsp
  • thyme
    ¼ tsp
  • chicken broth
    4 c
  • tomato sauce
    1 can
  • water
    1 c
  • bay leaf
    1 small
  • kosher salt
    1 ¼ tsp
  • lemon juice
    ½ tsp
  • ground black pepper
    ¼ tsp

Directions

  1. 1

    Turn on a multi-functional pressure cooker (such as Instant Pot) and select the Sauté function. Add oil and warm for a few minutes. Add onion and celery; sauté for 2 minutes. Add carrots; sauté for 4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 2 minutes. Stir in ham, lentils, basil, oregano, and thyme. Pour in chicken broth, tomato sauce, and water, then stir in bay leaf.

  2. 2

    Close and lock the lid. Select high pressure according to the manufacturer's instructions; set the timer for 8 minutes. Allow 10 to 15 minutes for pressure to build.

  3. 3

    Release pressure using the natural-release method according to the manufacturer's instructions, 10 to 40 minutes. Carefully remove the lid and discard bay leaf. Stir in salt, lemon juice, and pepper.

Instant Pot Lentil and Ham Soup

Instant Pot Lentil and Ham Soup

60 min10 servings157 cal

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About this Recipe

Instant Pot Lentil and Ham Soup: Hearty Flavor in a Flash

Craving a comforting bowl of lentil and ham soup but short on time? This Instant Pot Lentil and Ham Soup recipe delivers all the rich, slow-cooked flavor you love, but in a fraction of the time! Forget simmering all day; your pressure cooker transforms simple ingredients into a deeply savory, satisfying meal in under an hour.

This isn't just any easy Instant Pot soup; it's a testament to how quick cooking can still be incredibly delicious. We start by sautéing a classic mirepoix of onion, celery, and carrots directly in the Instant Pot, building a foundational layer of flavor. Then, hearty lentils, savory diced ham, aromatic garlic, and a blend of basil, oregano, and thyme join forces with chicken broth and a touch of tomato sauce. The magic of the Instant Pot tenderizes the lentils and melds all the ingredients into a harmonious, hearty soup that's perfect for a family dinner.

Tips for the Best Lentil and Ham Soup

  • Choose Your Ham Wisely: Leftover holiday ham is perfect for this recipe, but you can also use pre-cooked diced ham or even a smoked ham hock for extra depth if you have it (remove before serving).
  • Lentil Love: Brown or green lentils work best in this recipe as they hold their shape well under pressure. Red lentils tend to break down too much.
  • Fresh Herbs: While dried herbs are convenient, a sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme at the end can brighten the flavors beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

This flavorful lentil soup is a complete meal in itself, but it pairs wonderfully with:

  • Crusty bread or a warm baguette for dipping
  • A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette
  • A sprinkle of fresh Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of savory goodness.

Get ready to add this quick and easy Instant Pot Lentil and Ham Soup to your rotation for a delicious and nourishing meal that truly feels like it simmered all day.

Frequently Asked Questions

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