Instant Pot Lentils and Rice Pilaf

Ingredients

Estimated total cost: €6.32 · €1.58/serving

• 3 tablespoons of finest extra-virgin olive oil, plus additional for drizzlingEst. price €0.18–€0.45
• 2 large or 3 small allium porrum (white and pale green sections only), cut in half and thinly slicedEst. price €2.00–€4.50
• Kosher salt to tasteEst. price €0.01–€0.05
• 2 cloves of garlic, finely grated or minced (press down with knife blade for enhanced flavor)Est. price €0.10–€0.25
• 1 teaspoon of freshly ground cumin (toast in a dry pan for a few seconds to release aroma)Est. price €0.08–€0.20
• 1/4 teaspoon of ground allspiceEst. price €0.03–€0.08
• 1/8 teaspoon of fiery cayenne pepperEst. price €0.02–€0.06
• 1 cup of brown or green lensesEst. price €1.20–€2.50
• 1 fragrant bay leafEst. price €0.05–€0.15
• 1 stick of aromatic cinnamonEst. price €0.15–€0.40

Steps

1. 1

   Begin by heating oil in the pressure cooker pot using the sauté function. Add the leeks and cook them, stirring occasionally, until they develop a dark golden color around the edges, which should take approximately 10 minutes. Season with a pinch of salt. Remove half of the cooked leeks using a slotted spoon and place them in a bowl for later use as garnish.

2. 2

   Add the garlic to the pot and cook until it becomes aromatic, which should take around 15 seconds. Incorporate the cumin, allspice, and cayenne into the mixture and continue cooking for another 30 seconds.

3. 3

   Combine lentils, 2 cups of water, 2 teaspoons of salt, a bay leaf, and a cinnamon stick in the pot.

Full steps, exact amounts, and Cook Mode are available after sign-in.

• Cultural note

  Lentils and rice pilaf is a popular dish in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines, known for its hearty and comforting qualities. The combination of lentils and rice is a common practice in many cultures, symbolizing prosperity and abundance. The aromatic spices used in this recipe such as cumin, allspice, and…

• Seasonal note

  This dish can be enjoyed year-round as lentils, rice, and spinach are commonly available ingredients. However, spinach is at its peak freshness in the spring and fall, making those seasons ideal for this recipe.

• Health note

  Instant Pot Lentils and Rice Pilaf is a nutritious dish rich in protein, fiber, and vitamins A and C from spinach. It is a good source of plant-based protein and fiber, promoting satiety and aiding in digestion. The dish is relatively low in calories and saturated fat, making it a healthy option for a balanced diet.