Instant Pot Provencal Vegetable Soup

It’s quite similar to neighboring Italy’s minestrone soup but with French lentils instead of pasta. Made with crisp summer vegetables and just the right amount of herbs de Provence to infuse the flavor of southeastern France, along with French lentils to make this a hearty main course. Best of all, it’s an Instant Pot friendly recipe!

Ingredients

1 onion, chopped

4 cloves garlic, minced

5 cups vegetable stock

1 small Japanese eggplant, diced

2 medium to large zucchini, chopped

1 yellow bell pepper, diced or sliced mini bell peppers

1 - 28 oz can diced tomatoes, with juice

1 cup French Lentils or black beluga lentils

2 tsp herbs de Provence

1/4 tsp fresh ground black pepper

1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

1. Set Instant Pot to the Saute setting and saute onion and garlic to soften, about 5 minutes, adding a tablespoon or 2 of water to prevent sticking.

2. Add remaining ingredients to Instant Pot and give it a good stir.

3. Secure lid and set Instant Pot to Pressure Cook - High setting for 10 minutes.

4. Once done, turn the Instant Pot to Cancel and let the Instant Pot naturally release for 10 minutes, then do a quick release.

5. Taste and adjust seasoning to your liking.

Serves 4