Instant Pot Hearty Lentil and Ham Bone Stew

Why this?
This comforting lentil and ham bone stew leverages the rich flavors from the ham bone, creating a deeply savory and satisfying dinner that's easy to prepare using the Instant Pot. The combination of lentils with aromatic vegetables and subtle smoked paprika results in a balanced, hearty meal perfect for a nutritious and warming dinner without overpowering spices.

Ingredients:

1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed

1 ham bone with some meat attached (about 1.5 to 2 lbs)

1 medium onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped

2 celery stalks, chopped

4 cups low-sodium chicken broth

2 cups water

1 bay leaf

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt to taste (optional, as ham bone can be salty)

2 tablespoons olive oil

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Preparation Steps:

Set the Instant Pot to 'Sauté' mode and heat olive oil.
Add diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until vegetables soften.
Add minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Turn off 'Sauté' mode. Add the rinsed lentils, ham bone, chicken broth, water, bay leaf, dried thyme, black pepper, and smoked paprika to the pot.
Secure the lid and set the Instant Pot to 'Pressure Cook' or 'Manual' on high pressure for 25 minutes.
When cooking is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then carefully do a quick release for any remaining pressure.
Open the lid, remove the ham bone, and shred any meat from it, discarding the bone and any gristle.
Return the shredded ham meat to the stew. Stir well and adjust seasoning with salt if necessary.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley.

Cooking Time: 40 minutes (including pressure release time)

Diet Types: gluten-free, high-protein, low-sugar

Serving Size: 1.5 cups per serving

Servings: 4

Nutritional Facts Per Serving:

Calories: 320 kcal

Total Fats: 8 g

Sodium: 700 mg

Dietary Fiber: 10 g

Total Sugars: 3 g

Proteins: 28 g

Calcium: 60 mg