Here’s the thing – Instant Pots have been around for years, but their popularity has grown exponentially only recently. This surge in popularity is largely due to the vast array of dishes that can be prepared using this versatile machine. Case in point: 30 incredibly delicious and easy-to-make Instant Pot vegan recipes are just a click away.
Being vegan has never been easier, and I’m willing to bet that even the most devoted meat-lovers will appreciate a warm, comforting bowl of pumpkin lasagna soup or a hearty serving of vegan gumbo. Don’t worry – you won’t need to scour specialty stores for obscure ingredients. Just fresh veggies, bold flavors, and a dash of creativity are all you’ll need. I’m already craving something tasty! Let’s dive right in.
30 Simple Vegan Instant Pot Recipes for Dinner
Vegan Instant Pot Pumpkin Lasagna Soup
Creating the perfect bowl of soup can be a challenge, especially if you’re trying to make it filling enough to keep your hunger at bay for an extended period. One solution is to incorporate ingredients that provide a sense of satiety, such as lasagne noodles, chickpeas, and tofu ricotta. These additions not only add flavor but also help to create a more substantial meal.
To take it to the next level, some nutritional yeast can be included to give the soup a rich, cheesy, and nutty taste, making it even more satisfying.
Instant Pot Cauliflower Tikka Masala
Understanding the obsession Brits have with curry is a fascinating topic. When it comes to indulging in this beloved dish, my British friends are always enthusiastic, often jokingly saying they could ‘murder’ for a good curry. In their culture, curry has taken on a near-religious status, and I’ve found that immersing myself in its rich flavors and aromas lifts my mood significantly.
Happily, many curry recipes already incorporate coconut milk, making them relatively easy to modify to suit vegan dietary preferences. When substituting meat with cauliflower florets, it’s essential to use larger pieces to prevent them from disintegrating during cooking. This way, you’ll maintain the desired texture and enjoy a satisfying, plant-based version of this classic dish.
Instant Pot Golden Lentil & Spinach Soup
Little do we know that a delicious and nutritious soup can be cooked in just 12 minutes! The combination of lentils and other ingredients makes this dish truly exceptional, even if the color isn’t the most appealing. I must admit, my initial impression was not enthusiastic about the green-brown hue, but one spoonful is enough to convince me that this soup is something special. Like any good soup, the foundation lies in the aromatic mixture of sautéed onions, carrots, and celery.
To enhance the flavors, you’ll add some pungency with garlic, along with a blend of spices including cumin, turmeric, thyme, salt, and pepper. Once you’ve added the broth and dry lentils to the pot, simply seal it up and let it cook for about 10 minutes to warm up before finishing off the remaining 12 minutes to cook the soup to perfection.
Instant Pot Carrots
Knowing how to manage multiple components of a meal simultaneously can be quite a challenge. Keeping this in mind, it’s essential to focus on specific elements that can be prepared quickly, such as these carrots. Fortunately, cooking them in an Instant Pot is incredibly efficient and only requires 12 minutes from start to finish – including the time it takes for the device to heat up.
A simple yet effective way to add a touch of luxury to your carrots is by incorporating a small amount of vegan butter towards the end of the cooking process, which results in a silky texture.
Instant Pot Masoor Dal (Red Lentil Dahl)
Dahl, a classic lentil stew originating from South Asia and India, is renowned for its rich protein content. While traditional recipes often recommend cooking it low and slow, the Instant Pot allows for a significant time reduction, making it possible to prepare this dish in approximately 30 minutes. Given that dahl is typically a vegetarian option, adapting it to be vegan is remarkably easy.
The core ingredients include onions, garlic, ginger, tomatoes, and coconut milk, which provide an excellent foundation. For added texture and depth, consider incorporating roasted vegetables towards the end of cooking.
Indulgent Instant Pot Vegan Mac and Cheese
Understanding that traditional mac & cheese often relies on dairy products, this vegan version takes a different approach. Rather than opting for soaked almonds or nutritional yeast to mimic the taste of cheese, it instead incorporates cashew (or any dairy-free) milk and a sprinkle of nooch for added flavor. The use of vegan cheese has come a long way in recent years, offering a more authentic alternative to its dairy-based counterpart.
If you’re new to trying vegan cheese, I recommend checking out this post to get an idea of what options might work best for you. In my own kitchen, I’ve found that the Just Like Parmesan wedge and So Delicious cheddar shreds offer surprisingly convincing results.
Instant Pot Vegetable Soup
Not surprisingly, soups are one of the simplest dishes to adapt to a vegan diet, as many traditional recipes rely heavily on vegetables. This recipe takes advantage of that fact by keeping things straightforward with a base of vegetable stock, complemented by a blend of herbs and an assortment of root vegetables like potatoes, carrots, onion, and celery.
If you’re only preparing a single batch, consider using store-bought soup mixes that include the essential ingredients, thereby reducing waste and saving you from buying excessive amounts of individual components, such as extra stalks of celery.
Instant Pot Vegan Chili
Amazingly versatile, chili recipes can vary greatly from region to region and even within families. Depending on where you’re from or what kind of recipe you’ve grown up with, your list of ingredients may include a wide range of items like kidney beans and canned tomatoes, corn, ground meat, or other vegetables. The beauty of chili lies in its adaptability, making it incredibly easy to create a plant-based version by simply omitting the meat.
As long as you have the right balance of spices, you’ll hardly notice the absence of the protein. Serve this vegan chili with a warm slice of cornbread for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Instant Pot Jackfruit Pulled “Pork”
Look for young jackfruit that is green, unripe, and packaged in water or brine, rather than syrup. Many canned varieties come ripe, which may seem appealing due to its tender texture. However, this also means it will continue to soften during cooking, ultimately resulting in a mushy consistency. To achieve the desired texture of pulled pork, it’s essential to start with unripe jackfruit. This way, you’ll be able to maintain some of its natural texture even after cooking.
Instant Pot Green Beans with Garlic & Lemon
Freshly harvested vegetables often come with a delicate balance of nutrients and flavors. Unfortunately, boiling them can lead to a significant loss of these essential compounds. The Instant Pot’s steam function offers an excellent solution to this problem, allowing you to preserve the goodness and flavor of your vegetables while cooking.
Instant Pot Brussels Sprouts
Keep in mind that Brussels sprouts have been unfairly maligned in popular culture. Not only do they contain an impressive array of essential nutrients, including fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, but research suggests they also offer several health benefits. These benefits include reducing inflammation, improving blood sugar control, and even potentially decreasing the risk of cancer.
Despite their somewhat pungent reputation, Brussels sprouts can be surprisingly enjoyable when roasted with a tangy dressing and paired with sweet sun-dried tomatoes.
Instant Pot Rice Pudding
Understanding the requirements of rice pudding, one of the key elements is its texture – it should be creamy and indulgent by design. Fortunately, with the ‘porridge setting on your Instant Pot, creating this dessert has become incredibly convenient. One notable aspect of this vegan version is the substitution of almond milk for traditional cream.
In my case, I used coconut milk as a substitute due to its added sweetness, although it’s worth noting that oat milk may not be the best choice, as it can impart an unpleasant oat-like texture.
Instant Pot Vegan Tomato Soup
Peculiarly enough, a common combination of ingredients in certain soups is tomatoes, cashews, and oats – which initially raised my eyebrows. The presence of cashews wasn’t too surprising, but oats as a base? It caught me off guard, to say the least. To prepare this unusual soup, combine tomatoes, water, cashews, rolled oats, bouillon cubes, basil, and garlic in a pot. Then cook on high pressure for five minutes. After cooking, blend the mixture thoroughly with an immersion blender.
I was astonished at how the oats transformed into a creamy texture, adding a rich depth to the soup.
Instant Pot Mushroom Risotto
Joining traditional risotto with modern simplicity, this version streamlines the cooking process without compromising on flavor or texture. Gone are the days of constant stirring; instead, you can cook the ingredients without hovering over the pot. Just like a normal sauté, start by cooking the onions and mushrooms until they’re soft and golden brown. This helps to develop their natural sweetness, which is essential for balancing the dish’s savory notes.
Next, toast the rice briefly in the pan before adding the liquid. This crucial step creates a crust around the rice grains, allowing them to absorb the broth slowly and evenly. As a result, the risotto cooks without becoming mushy or separated, achieving that perfect balance between creamy and firm.
Instant Pot Potato Leek Soup
Creating a delicious meal out of a culinary mistake can be quite the adventure! I’m one of those people who likes to order groceries online, and on this particular day, I was in a bit of a hurry. I had ordered what I thought were scallions, but, as it often does, life had other plans. And let’s just say, I wasn’t expecting the massive bunch of leeks that arrived instead! With no choice but to make the best of the situation, I decided to create a hearty batch of leek and potato soup.
In fact, I think some leftovers from that day are still lurking in the depths of my freezer, waiting to be rediscovered. The good news is that this soup gets an instant creamy boost thanks to the generous portion of potatoes it contains. But for an extra layer of richness, you can easily add a splash of coconut milk.
Vegan Gumbo
Knowing that authentic gumbo relies heavily on its rich and complex flavor profile, it’s no wonder why cooks take the time to develop a dark roux base. A good gumbo is all about balancing bold flavors with tender ingredients like chicken, sausage, and shrimp. To achieve this perfect balance, you’ll need to cook your roux for an extended period of time – just like regular roux, but longer in duration.
Begin by adding flour and oil to the pot, then whisk it over low heat until it reaches a deep, dark brown color that’s full of flavor. This crucial step is often overlooked, but trust us when we say it’s essential for bringing your gumbo to life! Since this particular recipe doesn’t include shrimp, I added some crispy tofu towards the end of cooking as a pop of contrasting texture and lighter color to the dish.
Failproof Instant Pot Rice
Eagerly embracing the simplicity of Instant Pot cooking, I’ve found myself relying on this versatile appliance for a multitude of tasks, but perhaps none more so than preparing perfectly cooked rice. Over the years, I’ve undoubtedly ruined countless pots due to my impatience and misjudged water levels. Thankfully, with the introduction of this foolproof technique, even the most novice cooks can achieve exceptional results without fear of experimentation gone wrong.
To execute this method, you’ll require a basic ratio of 1:1 (water to rice), which surprisingly adapts well to various types of rice, although cooking times may vary accordingly. For example, for a standard cup of white rice, set the Instant Pot for three minutes, followed by allowing the pressure to release naturally, ensuring your rice is cooked to perfection with minimal effort.
Instant Pot Vegan Cabbage Soup
While cabbage may not be the first ingredient that comes to mind when thinking about nutrient-dense foods, it’s actually a powerhouse of vitamins and minerals. With high levels of vitamins C and K, it’s an excellent addition to any meal, particularly those looking to boost their immune system and support bone health. Not only is cabbage packed with vitamins, but it also has anti-inflammatory properties, making it an ideal choice for reducing inflammation in the body.
Additionally, its low calorie count and high fiber content make it a great option for those looking to manage their weight or improve digestion. What’s more, its mild flavor and affordability make it a versatile ingredient that can be added to a wide range of dishes. In this recipe, for example, the cabbage will add bulk to the soup, allowing you to stretch the meal further and feed more people with minimal additional cost.
Once your stock basics are soft, simply add the cabbage, parsley, vegetable broth, beans, tomatoes, water, chili powder, thyme, salt & pepper, then cook for five minutes.
Vegan Instant Pot Corn Chowder
Taking a closer look at corn chowder, it’s easy to see why I’m so enamored with this soup/stew. Its unique combination of flavors is unmatched by other soups, offering a symphony of sweet, crispy, savory, creamy notes that make it impossible to resist. Furthermore, the addition of jalapeños brings an intriguing depth to the dish, elevating its overall flavor profile. To add another layer of complexity, consider grilling or lightly roasting the corn over an open flame for a smoky undertone.
When preparing the ingredients, don’t forget to soak the nuts beforehand so they’re soft and blend seamlessly into the pot. For those with nut allergies or dietary restrictions, feel free to modify the recipe by omitting the cashews and adding extra potatoes instead.
Vegan Butternut Squash Soup
Generally speaking, butternut squash shares a striking resemblance with pumpkin in terms of color and taste. However, it’s worth noting that the squash has a slightly sweeter flavor profile and a mild nutty undertone. Not only is this a more readily available ingredient throughout the year compared to pumpkins, which are typically seasonal, but it’s also a versatile addition to various recipes.
To add depth and warmth to your soup, start by sautéing carrots and onion in a pan until they’re tender. Then, stir in some minced garlic, grated ginger, curry powder, cumin, and nutmeg to create a fragrant blend of spices that will elevate the flavors of your dish.
Instant Pot Vegan Lentil Sloppy Joes
Recent culinary trends have popularized Sloppy Joes as a comfort food staple, typically made with tender ground beef, soft onions, tomato sauce (or ketchup), and Worcestershire sauce. Rich in flavor, these classic sandwiches are often characterized by their messy, indulgent nature and the nostalgia they evoke in many people. Rather than relying on traditional ingredients, this lentil recipe offers a protein-packed alternative that captures the same great flavors and textures.
One of the advantages of making this lentil version is that it yields a sauce so deliciously flavorful that it’s worth making extra for serving with rice or another side dish the following day. Furthermore, when served over a baked sweet potato, the combination of flavors and textures is truly exceptional.
Perfect Instant Pot Sweet Potatoes
Understanding the cooking time of multiple sweet potatoes in the Instant Pot is crucial for achieving perfectly cooked results every time. Unbeknownst to some, smaller sweet potatoes can be ready in as little as 15 minutes, while larger ones might take up to 60 minutes to cook thoroughly.
Utilizing the Instant Pot’s pressure cooking function allows for faster cooking times compared to traditional oven baking methods, making it a convenient and efficient way to prepare multiple sweet potatoes at once. This post provides a step-by-step guide on how to determine the optimal cooking time for your specific batch of sweet potatoes, ensuring you get it right every time. Just remember not to forget to add water to the bottom of the Instant Pot before cooking.
Vegan Instant Pot BBQ Meatballs
Often overlooked by some, vegan meat alternatives are becoming increasingly popular, with options like Trader Joe’s vegan meatballs being a favorite among many. These meatballs have been a game-changer in my kitchen, and I can confidently say they’re almost indistinguishable from their traditional counterparts. Whether you’re using them in place of beef for a hearty pasta dish or as the main attraction in a meatball sub, they never disappoint.
And if Trader Joe’s isn’t an option, this recipe offers a fantastic alternative to try at home. One of the best things about this dish is that it makes cooking incredibly easy – simply cook the meatballs right in the sauce and then switch your Instant Pot over to sauté mode to create a rich, sticky glaze once everything is cooked.
Instant Pot Corn on the Cob
Prolonged shucking of ears of corn can be a tedious task, but there’s a quicker way to get around it. Using the microwave is an efficient method that can significantly cut down on preparation time.
Instant Pot Penne Puttanesca
Yet again, the classic Puttanesca sauce has stolen hearts with its bold and pungent flavor profile, characteristic of Naples’ culinary tradition. This iconic Italian condiment is comprised of a medley of potent ingredients, including tomatoes, olive oil, olives, capers, garlic, and in some variations, anchovies.
What’s interesting about Puttanesca is that it translates to ‘whore’s pasta,’ an old-fashioned term that refers to its origins as a dish made with affordable ingredients, rather than any salacious connotation. Unlike many rich sauces that rely on butter or cream for flavor, Puttanesca gets its depth from the combination of these humble yet flavorful components. One thing to consider when working with this sauce is its intense acidity, which gives it a distinctive salt and vinegar taste.
While this might not appeal to everyone’s palate, fans of strong flavors will find themselves drawn back to Puttanesca again and again.
Instant Pot Asparagus Soup
Just like many other vegetables, asparagus has a unique flavor profile that can be tricky to describe. Its slightly bitter taste is reminiscent of sprouts and cabbage, yet it also shares some similarities with broccoli. Essentially, this vegetable tends to elicit strong reactions from people – they either love or hate its distinctive flavor. If you’re not particularly fond of asparagus, feel free to skip to the recipe below because this soup is a pure celebration of the vegetable’s essence.
To determine if the stalks are ready for use, gently bend them at both ends until they naturally break; it’s worth noting that only the upper section of the stem is suitable for cooking, so be sure to discard the lower part.
Instant Pot Indian Butter Tofu
Instant Pot Broccoli
Finding itself at the top of the list when it comes to nutritious vegetables, broccoli is packed with not only fiber but also an abundance of antioxidants. Its health benefits extend further by helping to reduce bad cholesterol levels in the body. Similar to green beans, boiling broccoli can result in a significant loss of its natural advantages. When attempting to roast it, another common issue arises – the ends tend to burn before the stalks are cooked evenly.
To avoid these problems, consider steaming broccoli in the Instant Pot instead. This method is surprisingly quick and efficient, with a batch ready in just minutes. However, don’t forget to promptly remove the broccoli from the pot once it’s done to prevent overcooking.
Date Sweetened Instant Pot Carrot Cake
Sweet treats like dates are naturally incredibly sweet and chewy, adding a wonderful caramel flavor when incorporated into cakes. Cooking cakes within the Instant Pot environment may not be the first consideration, but it’s actually ideal for maintaining crumb moisture. To prevent any messy drips on top, ensure that you cover the pan with foil – an extra precaution you might want to take is investing in an Instant Pot Sling, which allows for safe lifting of the pan.
Instant Pot Baked Apples
Purely speaking, baked apples are an incredibly versatile dessert option that can be enjoyed at various times of the day. Whether it’s as a sweet breakfast treat or a delightful after-dinner indulgence, they’re sure to satisfy your cravings. I find that sweeter apple varieties like Fuji or Honey Crisp work exceptionally well in this recipe, but if you prefer a hint of tartness with your sweetness, Granny Smith apples are an excellent alternative.
To prepare the baked apples, start by carefully cutting out their core to create a cavity. Then, fill the space with a mixture of sugar, cinnamon, raisins, and chopped nuts for added texture and flavor. I had the pleasure of serving these delicious treats at breakfast time, using some leftover granola as a crunchy topping and pairing it with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a drizzle of honey – absolutely divine!
The combination was nothing short of delightful, making each bite an experience to remember.
30 Best Vegan Instant Pot Recipe Collection
Creating a world of instant gratification with delicious and nutritious vegan options, these Instant Pot recipes cater to various tastes and dietary needs. Whether it’s comforting bowls of soup, creamy mac and cheese, or flavorful vegetables and rice combinations, the possibilities are endless and incredibly easy to prepare.
Instructions
Reviewing your collection of recipes is a great place to start. Gather all the necessary ingredients and measure them accurately. Cooking with an Instant Pot can be achieved in under 30 minutes, making it a convenient option for busy days.
