Instant Pot Lentil Chili is very flavorful, and can be made with meat or vegetarian/vegan. Have this wonderful Lentil Chili on the table in about an hour!
Select the sauté setting on the pot. Once the pot is hot add the meat, if using, and brown it, breaking it up and stirring occasionally as you cook it. Then add the onion, bell pepper, carrots, celery, and bay leaf. Cook for 5 minutes or until the vegetables are softened.
If not using meat, select the sauté setting on the pot. Once the pot is hot add the oil, onion, bell pepper, carrots, celery, and bay leaf. Cook for 5 minutes or until the vegetables are softened.
Cancel the sauté mode, add the rest of the ingredients, stir, close the lid, and turn the valve to sealing position.
Press the Pressure Cook/Manual button or dial, then the +/- button or dial to select 10 minutes. High Pressure. The pot will take several minutes to come to pressure.
When the cook cycle has finished, turn off the pot and let it sit undisturbed for 10 minutes (10 minute natural release). Then turn the steam release knob to the Venting position to release the remaining steam/pressure.
Taste and adjust salt, if desired. Garnish with the topping of your choice and serve.
Use 1 29-ounce can of lentils, drained. Reduce the broth to 1 cup. Reduce pressure cook time to 4 minutes with a 10 minute natural release.
Calories are approximate and will vary if you use meat, and by your brand/choice of broth, etc.