The temperature’s dropped, the socks are back on, and that means one thing. Soup season has arrived!
Now, I love a good homemade soup, but let’s be honest… not everyone’s got hours to roast, simmer, and blend. So, this Butternut Squash and Red Lentil Soup is my go-to for cold nights when I want that proper comfort food feeling without all the effort.
And the best part? The InstantPot Classic Mini 3.8L Multi-Cooker Pro 10-in-1 does all the heavy lifting.
No roasting. No blending. No drama. Just one pot, ten minutes, and a big bowl of cosy flavour. (You can cook in a normal saucepan but it will take longer.)
Who’s it for?
Serves: 4–6
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes (plus pressure release)
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, crushed
- 600g butternut squash, peeled and diced (roughly 2cm cubes)
- 150g red lentils, rinsed
- 1 teaspoon curry powder (optional but adds warmth)
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1 litre vegetable or chicken stock
- 200ml coconut milk (or a splash of cream)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- A squeeze of lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
To serve:
Pumpkin seeds, chopped herbs, or a drizzle of cream
How to make it
1. Sauté the base
Turn the Instant Pot to Sauté. Add the oil or butter, followed by onion and garlic. Cook for 2–3 minutes until soft and fragrant.
2. Load it up
Add the butternut squash, red lentils, spices, and stock. Give it a quick stir so everything’s mixed nicely, then cancel Sauté mode.
3. Pressure cook
Lock the lid and set to Pressure Cook (High) for 10 minutes.
Once it’s done, let it release naturally for about 10 minutes before venting the rest.
4. Finish and serve
Stir in the coconut milk and season to taste. The lentils will have broken down and thickened the soup naturally , so no blending needed!
Ladle into bowls, add your toppings, and serve with crusty bread for the full cosy effect.
Why You’ll Love It
- One pot. No mess.
- Naturally thick and creamy without blending.
- Packed with goodness and warmth.
- Perfect for midweek meals or lazy Sundays.
If you give this a try, tag me @nigelclarketv and @instantpotuk. And if you came here from Instagram. Welcome, you’re officially part of the Dad’s Winter Warmers club!
