There’s something deeply comforting about a warm bowl of soup—especially when it’s rich with spices, creamy texture, and nourishing ingredients. Instant Pot Coconut Curry Lentil Soup is the kind of dish that feels both cozy and exciting at the same time. It’s inspired by global flavors yet simple enough for everyday cooking, making it a perfect balance of comfort and adventure.
This soup is especially satisfying on busy days when you want something wholesome without spending hours in the kitchen. The Instant Pot makes it effortless, allowing the spices to bloom and the lentils to become perfectly tender in a fraction of the time. Coconut milk adds a silky richness, curry powder brings warmth, and fresh ginger and garlic layer in aromatic depth.
What makes this soup truly special is how nourishing it is—packed with plant-based protein, vegetables, and anti-inflammatory spices—while still feeling indulgent. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week, cooking for family, or simply craving a cozy, flavorful meal, this coconut curry lentil soup delivers comfort, nutrition, and bold flavor in every bite.
Recipe Overview
Instant Pot Coconut Curry Lentil Soup is a hearty, plant-based soup made with green lentils, potatoes, coconut milk, and warming spices like curry powder, ginger, cinnamon, and thyme. Cooked quickly in the Instant Pot, it’s creamy, satisfying, and naturally dairy-free, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or make-ahead meals.
Ingredients & Instructions
This recipe uses simple, accessible ingredients that come together beautifully under pressure.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 large carrot, diced
- 2 large garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, finely chopped or grated
- 2 tablespoons medium curry powder
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 150 g (¾ cup) green lentils, rinsed
- 1 litre (4 cups) vegetable stock
- 200 ml (1 cup) coconut milk
- 100 g black kale, shredded
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sauté the Aromatics
Set the Instant Pot to Sauté mode. Add the coconut oil, then stir in the onion, carrot, garlic, and ginger. Cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and become fragrant.
Tip: Take your time here—this step builds the flavor base of the soup.
2. Bloom the Spices
Add the curry powder, cayenne pepper, thyme, and ground cinnamon to the pot. Stir continuously for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, just until the spices become aromatic. This step enhances their depth and warmth.
3. Add Lentils and Vegetables
Turn off Sauté mode. Add the potatoes, green lentils, and vegetable stock, stirring well to combine and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
Secure the lid, set the valve to Sealing, and cook on High Pressure for 12 minutes.
4. Release Pressure
Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow a natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then carefully perform a manual release. Open the lid once all pressure has been released.
5. Finish with Coconut Milk and Kale
Stir in the coconut milk and shredded black kale. Let the soup sit for 3–5 minutes in the residual heat until the kale wilts and becomes tender.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve
Give the soup a final stir and serve hot. The texture should be creamy yet hearty, with tender lentils and vegetables in every spoonful.
Cooking Tips & Variations
This soup is wonderfully adaptable, making it easy to customize to your preferences.
1. Lentil Options
- Green lentils hold their shape well, but brown lentils work just as nicely.
- Avoid red lentils unless you prefer a much softer, more blended texture.
2. Adjust the Heat
- Reduce or omit cayenne for a mild soup.
- Add extra cayenne or a pinch of chili flakes for more spice.
3. Make It Creamier
- Blend one or two cups of the soup and stir it back in for an extra creamy texture without adding more coconut milk.
4. Vegetable Swaps
- Substitute potatoes with sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter profile.
- Add cauliflower, zucchini, or spinach depending on what you have on hand.
5. Fresh Finish
- A squeeze of lime juice or a handful of chopped cilantro just before serving brightens the flavors beautifully.
6. Stove-Top Method
No Instant Pot? Simmer everything in a large pot for about 35–40 minutes, until lentils and potatoes are tender.
Storage & Serving Suggestions
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: This soup freezes very well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheating
- Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of vegetable stock if it thickens.
Serving Ideas
Serve this coconut curry lentil soup with:
- Warm naan or crusty bread
- Steamed rice or quinoa
- A fresh cucumber or tomato salad for contrast
It’s hearty enough to stand alone but pairs beautifully with simple sides.
Instant Pot Coconut Curry Lentil Soup is the kind of recipe that checks all the boxes—comforting, nourishing, flavorful, and easy. The combination of creamy coconut milk, tender lentils, warming spices, and vibrant greens creates a soup that feels both indulgent and wholesome.
Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or cozy weekends, this soup proves that plant-based meals can be deeply satisfying without being complicated. Once you try it, it’s bound to become a regular in your rotation—one warm, fragrant bowl at a time.
FAQs
1. Can I make this soup vegan?
Yes—this recipe is naturally vegan as written.
2. Can I use canned lentils?
Dried lentils are best for pressure cooking, but canned lentils can be added after pressure cooking and simmered briefly.
3. Is this soup spicy?
It’s mildly spiced. Adjust cayenne to suit your heat preference.
4. Can I use light coconut milk?
Yes, but the soup will be slightly less creamy.
5. Does this soup thicken as it sits?
Yes. Add a splash of broth when reheating if needed.
Creamy Instant Pot Coconut Curry Lentil Soup made with lentils, potatoes, coconut milk, and warming spices. A comforting, healthy, and easy plant-based meal.
