There’s something magical about the smell of warm soup simmering on the stove. It takes me back to chilly afternoons with mom, stirring pots of comfort. That’s why we can’t get enough of this Instant Pot Lentil Cabbage Soup. It’s popping up all over TikTok and Pinterestperfect for busy nights when we need a cozy hug in a bowl.
This dish is all about simplicity. Packed with nourishing lentils, crunchy cabbage, and a splash of smoky flavor, it’s like your grandma’s version but prepped in a fraction of the time. And guess what? You can whip this up with pantry staples! Full details in the blog!
Growing up, soup was our go-to when the skies turned gray. Now, I make this recipe with my kids, and it’s a beautiful reminder of home. I tested it to perfection, so you’ll love the secret tip in the recipe!
This Instant Pot Lentil Cabbage Soup is a healthy and flavorful vegan meal that’s easy to prepare. Enjoy the smoky taste and wholesome ingredients in this Vegan Lentil Cabbage Soup Pressure Cooker recipe. Perfect for a comforting bowl of Easy Instant Pot Cabbage Lentil Stew.
Ingredients
Scale
1 tablespoon cooking oil like grapeseed or avocado optional
1 large onion chopped
3 medium carrots peeled and chopped
6 cloves garlic minced
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
⅛ teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
1 tablespoon homemade chicken bouillon powder tap for recipe or 1 serving other vegan bouillon
1 28 oz can fire-roasted diced tomatoes
4 cups water
¾ cup dry green lentils rinsed
1 small head green cabbage cored and chopped I like to cut the cabbage into large bite-size pieces about 2x2 inch
1 teaspoon fine sea salt
½ to 1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
1 tablespoon white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon liquid smoke optional
2 to 3 tablespoons vegan butter optional I prefer Miyoko’s brand
Instructions
Turn on the Instant Pot sauté setting and add oil if using. Cook the onion for 2 to 3 minutes while stirring frequently; if skipping oil, add some water as needed.
Add the carrots and garlic, cook for about 30 seconds stirring often to avoid burning the garlic. Stir in the smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, and cayenne then turn off the sauté mode.
Mix in the bouillon powder, tomatoes with juice, water, lentils, cabbage, salt, and pepper, pressing the cabbage into the liquid to keep below the max fill line.
Secure the lid and set the Instant Pot to high pressure for 10 minutes; allow about 20 minutes for pressure build-up.
When cooking is done, release pressure manually by flipping the valve; this may take about 10 minutes.
Open the lid carefully and stir in soy sauce, liquid smoke, vinegar, and vegan butter if desired.
Let the soup rest a few minutes, then adjust seasoning to taste and serve warm.
Notes
You can omit oil and sauté veggies in water or broth or skip sautéing entirely
Spice level can be increased by adding more cayenne or red pepper flakes or hot sauce
For more meaty texture, add vegan beefy crumbles or tofu separately sautéed
Store in the refrigerator up to 5 days or freeze for up to 2 months leaving 1 inch of headspace in container
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:10 minutes
Category:Main Course
Method:Pressure Cooker
Cuisine:American
Nutrition
Serving Size:1 bowl
Calories:220kcal
Fat:5g
Carbohydrates:35g
Fiber:10g
Protein:10g
Cholesterol:0mg
Why It’s a Family Favorite
Nothing says comfort quite like a steaming bowl of Instant Pot Lentil Cabbage Soup. This recipe is a gem from my collection of family favorites, blending warm, cozy flavors with wholesome ingredients. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a hug from the insideperfect for chilly evenings or whenever you need a quick, satisfying meal.
One of the best parts? Most of the cooking happens while you’re enjoying a moment to yourself, whether that means reading a cozy book or catching up on your favorite show. With hearty lentils and tender cabbage, this soup delivers a punch of flavor and nostalgia, reminding me of childhood dinners around the kitchen table.
And let’s be honestwho doesn’t love a meal that comes together so easily? It’s not only delicious but also comforting and super simple to prepare. It’s a dish you’ll find yourself making again and again!
Ingredients Breakdown
Let’s explore the star ingredients that make this soup such a delight to create:
Lentils: The hero of the dish! Packed with protein and fiber, green lentils provide a wonderful texture.
Cabbage: Chopped into big, bite-sized pieces, it softens beautifully in the pressure cooker, adding a mild sweetness.
Fire-roasted Diced Tomatoes: They bring a smoky depth of flavor that truly makes a difference!
Spices: Smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, and cayenne give the soup a warm kick that dances on your tongue without overpowering.
Onions and Garlic: These aromatic staples form a flavorful base and fill your kitchen with inviting scents.
Pro Tip: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices! A dash of thyme or some bay leaves can further elevate the flavors.
Simple Steps to Make It
Start by sautéing the onion in the Instant Pot for a few minutes until fragrant, then add the carrots and garlic shortly afteryou want these to soften and blend beautifully.
Spice it up with smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, and cayenne before adding the rest of the hearty ingredients, including bouillon, tomatoes, water, lentils, and cabbage.
Secure the lid and let the magic happen! Cook on high pressure for just 10 minutes, enjoying the comforting aroma wafting through your home.
Once the cooking is complete, carefully release the pressure, stir in the soy sauce and vinegar, and give it a taste. Adjust the seasoning if neededperhaps a little more salt or a splash of vinegar for brightness.
Step
Action
Timing
Sauté Onions
Lightly cook until translucent.
2–3 minutes
Add Carrots & Garlic
Stir and soften.
1 minute
Pressure Cook
Seal and cook the deliciousness!
10 minutes
Easy Customizations
This soup is incredibly versatile! You can easily adjust it to your taste or what you have available. For extra protein, consider adding cooked soy curls or crumbles to satisfy the meat lovers in your family. Want more heat? Add a dash of hot sauce or extra cayenne pepper.
If you prefer a lighter version, skip the oil or use water for sautéing. It remains just as delicious! You can also swap the cabbage for other greens like kale or spinach to boost the nutrient content.
How to Serve & Store
Serving this delicious soup can be just as inviting as making it! Ladle it into bowls and top with a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for extra flair. Enjoy it alongside crusty bread or a simple side salad for a complete meal.
When storing, keep it in a sealed container in the fridge for about 5 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Give it a good stir, and enjoy your cozy bowl all over again!
Expert Says
Using an Instant Pot for lentil cabbage soup not only shortens cooking time but also enhances flavors through pressure cooking. Lentils provide an excellent source of protein and fiber, contributing to a hearty and nourishing meal. The addition of cabbage supplies essential vitamins, making this soup both satisfying and nutritious.
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The Road to Instant Pot Lentil Cabbage Soup Bliss
After a few rounds of too-salty batches and two that turned out glue-like, I finally perfected my Instant Pot Lentil Cabbage Soup. Each attempt filled my kitchen with memoriesfailing, laughing, tweakinguntil I found that perfect balance of flavors. Spoiler alert: it’s worth every chaotic moment!
FAQs ( Instant Pot Lentil Cabbage Soup )
How long to cook lentils in the Instant Pot?
In the Instant Pot, lentils typically cook in about 15 minutes at high pressure. Ensure you let the pressure release naturally for the best texture, especially for the split variety used in this recipe.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, this meal freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then store in airtight containers. It can last up to three months in the freezer, making it perfect for meal prep.
What to serve with lentil cabbage soup?
This dish pairs nicely with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal. A dollop of non-dairy yogurt adds creaminess and extra flavor when serving.
Can I use other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add veggies like carrots, spinach, or bell peppers. Just chop them into small pieces and adjust your cooking time as needed.
Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it contains no grains or gluten-containing ingredients. It’s a healthy option for those with dietary restrictions.
Conclusion
And there you have ita heartwarming bowl of Instant Pot Lentil Cabbage Soup that’s not only quick to make but wonderfully comforting! In just around 30 minutes, you’ll enjoy an enticing aroma and cozy flavors that feel just like home. You’ll love how it turns outthick, hearty, and perfect for chilly nights!
Feeling adventurous? Try adding a dash of lemon juice or some fresh herbs to brighten things up! If you have leftovers, it stores beautifully in the fridge for up to five days, or you can freeze it for a delicious meal later. A little tip from my kitchenalways make a double batch; trust me, you’ll want seconds!
I’d love to hear how yours turns out! Did you grow up with something like this too? Snap a photo or share your memories in the comments. Remember, cooking is about love and sharing, so don’t forget to save or pass along this recipe to your loved ones. Here’s to cozy nights and hearty soups made with love!
Sharing a handpicked collection of easy, healthy recipes made in our family kitchen. Rachel brings comforting classics, while Emily adds fresh, modern ideas together creating meals that are simple, flavorful, and family-friendly.
