Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 210
- Protein: 10 grams
- Carbohydrates: 40 grams
- Fat: 5 grams
- Fiber: 13 grams
- Sugar: 3 grams
- Sodium: 400 mg
Why Make This Easy Instant Pot Mung Bean Stew
Mung bean stew serves as a hearty and nutritious meal that combines convenience and flavor. Cooking it in an Instant Pot saves time while allowing for a rich, complex taste that simmers together beautifully. The combination of spices, fresh vegetables, and tender mung beans creates a delightful dish that will warm you up on a chilly day. Moreover, this stew is a fantastic plant-based option, perfect for those who are looking to incorporate more legumes into their diet. It’s easy to make and promises a satisfying meal that’s packed with protein and fiber!
How to Make Easy Instant Pot Mung Bean Stew
Creating this delicious mung bean stew is a straightforward process that showcases the brilliant flavors of your ingredients. Follow these simple steps to achieve the perfect consistency and taste.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup mung beans
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Directions:
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Step 1: Preparation
Rinse the mung beans under cold water and drain.
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Step 2: Sautéing
Set the Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ mode and heat the olive oil. Add the chopped onion and garlic; sauté until the onion becomes translucent.
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Step 3: Mixing
Add the diced carrot and bell pepper, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until they soften. Then stir in the chopped tomatoes, cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper.
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Step 4: Cooking
Add the rinsed mung beans and vegetable broth. Close the lid of the Instant Pot, set the valve to sealing, and cook on ‘Manual’ or ‘Pressure Cook’ for 15 minutes. Once cooking is complete, allow a natural release for 10 minutes and then quick release any remaining pressure.
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Step 5: Finishing
Stir the stew well and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot!
How to Serve Easy Instant Pot Mung Bean Stew
Serve this comforting stew hot in bowls, and consider topping it with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like cilantro for a pop of color. A side of crusty bread or a grain like quinoa complements this stew beautifully, making it a complete meal. It’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep for lunches throughout the week.
How to Store Easy Instant Pot Mung Bean Stew
Let the stew cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, place it in freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
Expert Tips for Perfect Easy Instant Pot Mung Bean Stew
- For a creamier texture, blend a portion of the stew after cooking.
- Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste; adding a pinch of cayenne pepper can introduce a nice kick!
- Experiment with different vegetables; spinach or kale can be great additions just before serving.
- Soaking the mung beans for a few hours can help decrease cooking time slightly, but it’s not necessary.
Delicious Variations
- Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne for heat.
- Herbaceous Twist: Stir in fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro after cooking for a fresh flavor.
- Coconut Curry: Add a can of coconut milk along with the vegetable broth for a creamy twist inspired by Thai cuisine.
- Protein Boost: Mix in some cooked chicken, turkey, or tofu for a heartier version.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use dried mung beans instead? Yes, just make sure to rinse them thoroughly and note that you may need to increase the cooking time.
- What if I don’t have an Instant Pot? You can cook the stew on the stovetop; it may take about 30-45 minutes to simmer until the mung beans are tender.
- Is this stew vegan? Yes, this recipe is entirely plant-based!
- Can I add more vegetables? Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with seasonal vegetables like zucchini or spinach.
- How can I make this gluten-free? The recipe is already gluten-free, just ensure your vegetable broth is labeled gluten-free.
Conclusion
This Easy Instant Pot Mung Bean Stew is not just a dish; it’s a warm embrace on a plate! Simple to prepare, packed with nutrients, and utterly delicious, it hold all the qualities of a satisfying meal. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to brighten your day and fill your bellies. Give it a try, and enjoy the wonderful flavors!
