Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or simply looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your routine, having a reliable Instant Pot recipe book focused on vegetarian dishes is a game changer.
The Instant Pot makes cooking wholesome, flavorful vegetarian meals fast and fuss-free, freeing up your time for other things you love. From hearty stews and vibrant curries to comforting soups and grain bowls, the possibilities are endless.
This blog post will guide you through the essentials of creating delicious vegetarian meals using your Instant Pot, while also recommending some must-try recipes that will elevate your culinary repertoire.
Using an Instant Pot for vegetarian cooking not only speeds up your meal prep but also helps retain the natural flavors and nutrients of your ingredients. Whether you’re new to the Instant Pot or an experienced user, the vegetarian recipes you’ll discover here are designed to be simple, nutritious, and satisfying.
Ready to explore the vibrant world of vegetarian Instant Pot cooking? Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Instant Pot vegetarian recipes are perfect for busy weeknights and lazy weekends alike. The pressure cooking function reduces cooking time dramatically without sacrificing taste or texture.
Plus, many recipes are one-pot wonders, which means less cleanup and more convenience.
You’ll enjoy the rich flavors that develop when vegetables and spices meld together under pressure. These recipes are also incredibly versatile — easy to customize with your favorite veggies, beans, and grains.
If you value healthy, hearty meals that come together quickly, this cooking style is ideal.
Finally, this collection of recipes encourages creativity and experimentation, helping you discover new favorites while keeping your meals exciting and fresh.
Ingredients
- 1 cup dried lentils (brown or green)
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
- Optional: 1 cup chopped spinach or kale
Equipment
- Instant Pot or Electric Pressure Cooker
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board and knife
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Fine mesh strainer (for rinsing grains and lentils)
- Serving bowls
Instructions
- Prepare the ingredients: Rinse the lentils and quinoa well under cold water using a fine mesh strainer. Chop all vegetables as listed in the ingredients.
- Sauté aromatics: Turn the Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode. Add olive oil, then sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add vegetables and spices: Stir in the chopped carrots, bell pepper, cumin, smoked paprika, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes to toast the spices.
- Add grains, lentils, and liquids: Pour in the rinsed lentils, quinoa, diced tomatoes (with juices), and vegetable broth. Give everything a good stir to combine.
- Pressure cook: Secure the lid and set the valve to sealing. Select “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” on high for 10 minutes.
- Natural release: Once cooking is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then carefully quick release any remaining pressure.
- Add greens (optional): If using spinach or kale, stir it in now. The residual heat will wilt the greens perfectly.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro and serve warm. Enjoy your hearty, nutritious vegetarian Instant Pot meal!
Tips & Variations
For an extra protein boost, consider adding cubed tofu or tempeh after cooking, sautéed separately and stirred in at the end.
Swap the lentils for chickpeas or black beans (canned and drained) for a different texture and flavor.
Experiment with spices like garam masala or curry powder to transform this dish into a more Indian-inspired meal.
If you prefer a thicker stew, reduce the vegetable broth to 1.5 cups or add 1 tablespoon of tomato paste during the sauté step.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 320 kcal |
Protein | 18 g |
Carbohydrates | 45 g |
Fiber | 12 g |
Fat | 6 g |
Vitamin A | 30% DV |
Vitamin C | 40% DV |
Iron | 25% DV |
Serving Suggestions
This vegetarian Instant Pot dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp side salad or warm crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth. For a heartier meal, serve alongside roasted vegetables or a dollop of creamy vegan yogurt.
Consider topping your bowl with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a sprinkle of toasted nuts or seeds for added texture and brightness. If you love Mediterranean flavors, a side of marinated olives or pickled vegetables can complement this dish beautifully.
Conclusion
Embracing vegetarian cooking with an Instant Pot opens up a world of quick, nutritious, and flavorful meals that fit seamlessly into a busy lifestyle. This recipe is just one example of how versatile and satisfying plant-based Instant Pot dishes can be.
From lentils and quinoa to a rainbow of vegetables and spices, you get a comforting meal packed with protein and fiber.
With a little creativity and experimentation, you can customize these recipes to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. For more inspiration, check out related recipes like Instant Pot Vegetarian Recipes Indian Food Lovers Adore, Vegetarian Tex Mex Recipes for Easy Weeknight Dinners, and Veg Recipes for Slow Cooker: Easy, Tasty Meal Ideas.
Happy cooking!
Top 5 Instant Pot Vegetarian Recipes to Try
Instant Pot Lentil and Vegetable Stew
A wholesome stew brimming with lentils, carrots, potatoes, and savory herbs. This stew is perfect for meal prep and freezes beautifully.
- Ingredients: Lentils, carrots, potatoes, celery, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, thyme, bay leaves.
- Cook Time: 20 minutes on high pressure.
Instant Pot Vegetarian Chili
Spicy, smoky, and loaded with beans and vegetables, this chili is a crowd-pleaser. Serve with vegan sour cream and cornbread for a filling meal.
- Ingredients: Kidney beans, black beans, bell peppers, corn, tomatoes, chili powder, cumin.
- Cook Time: 15 minutes on high pressure.
Instant Pot Quinoa and Chickpea Pilaf
Fluffy quinoa cooked with chickpeas, onions, garlic, and seasoned with turmeric and coriander for a fragrant, protein-packed dish.
- Ingredients: Quinoa, chickpeas, onion, garlic, turmeric, coriander, vegetable broth.
- Cook Time: 8 minutes on high pressure.
Instant Pot Vegetable Curry
A rich, creamy curry made with coconut milk, mixed vegetables, and warming spices. Serve with basmati rice or naan bread.
- Ingredients: Mixed vegetables (cauliflower, potatoes, peas), coconut milk, curry powder, garlic, ginger.
- Cook Time: 10 minutes on high pressure.
Instant Pot Mushroom Risotto
Creamy risotto cooked effortlessly in the Instant Pot with mushrooms, garlic, shallots, and vegetable broth.
- Ingredients: Arborio rice, mushrooms, garlic, shallots, white wine, vegetable broth, nutritional yeast or vegan parmesan.
- Cook Time: 7 minutes on high pressure.
For detailed instructions on these recipes and more, explore the following resources:
- Instant Pot Vegetarian Recipes Indian Food Lovers Adore
- Vegetarian Tex Mex Recipes for Easy Weeknight Dinners
- Veg Recipes for Slow Cooker: Easy, Tasty Meal Ideas
📖 Recipe Card: Instant Pot Vegetarian Chili
Description: A hearty and flavorful vegetarian chili made quickly in the Instant Pot. Perfect for a healthy, protein-packed meal.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT25M
Total Time: PT40M
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 1 cup dried kidney beans, soaked overnight
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Turn on Instant Pot and select sauté; heat olive oil.
- Add onion, garlic, bell pepper, and carrots; sauté for 5 minutes.
- Add soaked kidney beans, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and spices.
- Close lid and set valve to sealing; cook on high pressure for 20 minutes.
- Allow natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then quick release remaining pressure.
- Stir chili, season with salt and pepper, and serve hot.
Nutrition: Calories: 280 kcal | Protein: 15 g | Fat: 5 g | Carbs: 45 g
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