Instant Pot Pumpkin Curry

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Warm, hearty, and brimming with fall flavors, this Instant Pot Pumpkin Curry is the perfect recipe for cozy dinners or family gatherings. Imagine a velvety bowl of curry that not only satisfies your taste buds but also fills your home with the delightful aroma of spices and fresh ingredients. Whether you’re looking to elevate your weeknight meals or impress guests with an exotic dish, this pumpkin curry is a go-to option that also packs a nutritional punch.

Why not combine the sweet, earthy flavor of pumpkin with the creaminess of coconut milk and the satisfying texture of lentils? You’ll have a dish that’s not only delicious but also easy to prepare in your Instant Pot. Let’s dive into the recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This Instant Pot Pumpkin Curry is a must-try for several reasons:

• Quick and Easy: With the Instant Pot, you can whip up this curry in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful and Nourishing: The combination of spices, pumpkin, and lentils creates a burst of flavors while adding essential nutrients to your meal.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This dish stores well, meaning you can make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week.
• Customizable: Feel free to adapt the spices and vegetables based on what you have on hand.

Ingredients

To prepare this scrumptious Instant Pot Pumpkin Curry, you will need the following ingredients:

• ½ small pumpkin, peeled and cubed (about 4 cups)
• 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and cubed (about 1 cup)
• ½ cup dry red lentils, rinsed and drained
• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, peeled then grated or diced
• 2 green chiles, deseeded
• 1 can light coconut milk
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon ground coriander
• 1 tablespoon ground turmeric
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon salt (add more later if desired)
• 2 cups water

How To Make Instant Pot Pumpkin Curry

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by peeling and cubing the pumpkin and sweet potato. Make sure to rinse the red lentils and chop the onion, garlic, ginger, and green chiles. Having everything prepped will streamline your cooking process.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Turn on your Instant Pot and set it to the sauté setting. Add a splash of water to the pot (or a little oil if preferred) and sauté the diced onion until translucent, about 3 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic, grated ginger, and chopped green chiles. Stir for another minute to release their fragrant aromas.

Step 3: Mix in the Spices

Add the ground coriander, turmeric, cumin, and salt into the pot. Stir everything together, allowing the spices to toast for a minute. This step enhances their flavors and gives your curry a warm, aromatic base.

Step 4: Add the Vegetables and Lentils

Next, add the cubed pumpkin, sweet potato, and rinsed lentils. Give everything a good mix to combine with the spice mixture.

Step 5: Add Coconut Milk and Water

Pour in the can of light coconut milk and the 2 cups of water. Stir well to make sure everything is submerged in liquid.

Step 6: Cook Under Pressure

Close the lid of the Instant Pot, making sure the valve is set to sealing. Set to cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. It will take some time for the pot to come to pressure, so be patient!

Step 7: Release the Pressure

Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes, then carefully switch the valve to venting to release any remaining pressure. Once the steam has fully escaped, carefully open the lid.

Step 8: Final Touches

Give your curry a good stir, tasting for seasoning. Feel free to add more salt if desired. If you prefer a creamier consistency, you can use an immersion blender to blend a bit of the curry while leaving some chunks for texture.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the pumpkin curry hot, garnished with fresh herbs or a drizzle of coconut milk if desired. Pair it with rice or quinoa for a complete meal.

Expert Tips

• Make sure to deseed and finely chop the green chiles according to your heat preference. You can adjust the amount based on your tolerance for spice.
• If you don’t have red lentils, yellow lentils can be a great substitute. Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.
• For additional flavor, consider adding a splash of lime juice or a handful of fresh cilantro just before serving.
• Always taste the dish before serving; sometimes an extra pinch of salt or a dash of spices can elevate the flavors further.

Variations and Customizations

• Add your favorite vegetables such as spinach, kale, or carrots for added nutrition and colors.
• For a protein boost, toss in some chickpeas or shredded cooked chicken.
• For a more traditional Indian flavor, add a cinnamon stick and a few whole cardamom pods during the cooking process.
• Swap out the pumpkin for butternut squash or carrots if you’re looking for a slight change in flavor.

How to Store Leftovers

Once you’ve savored this delightful curry, you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Alternatively, this dish freezes beautifully! Let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It will keep well for up to 3 months—simply thaw and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy it again.

FAQ

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned for this recipe?

Yes, using fresh pumpkin will add great flavor and nutrition. Just make sure to peel and cube it before adding it to the curry.

Is this recipe spicy?

The spice level can be easily adjusted based on the number of green chiles you use. Feel free to omit them entirely for a milder dish.

Can I make this curry vegan?

Yes! This recipe is naturally vegan-friendly as it uses coconut milk and plant-based ingredients.

How long can I keep leftovers?

Leftover curry can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember to let it cool before freezing!

Conclusion

This Instant Pot Pumpkin Curry is a beautiful blend of flavors and textures that will keep everyone coming back for seconds. It’s easy to make, full of nutrition, and adaptable to your own tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you’re snuggled up at home or hosting a gathering, this curry is sure to warm your heart and fill your belly with comfort. Embrace the flavors of fall and enjoy this delightful dish with friends and family!

Share the flavor, share the love.