Are you tired of the same old weeknight meals? Look no further! With the Instant Pot and farro, a delicious and nutritious grain, you can create a variety of flavorful dishes that are perfect for busy evenings. Farro is an ancient Italian grain that has gained popularity in recent years due to its nutty flavor and chewy texture. Paired with the Instant Pot’s pressure cooking abilities, farro becomes incredibly versatile.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 different Instant Pot farro recipes that are sure to become staples in your meal rotation. From hearty bowls to creamy pilafs, these dishes are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch. Whether you’re a fan of savory flavors or bright and zesty, there’s something on this list for everyone.
Stay tuned for the next installment of our Instant Pot Farro recipes, where we’ll dive into the first 5 delicious options!
Instant Pot Farro with Mushrooms and Thyme
This recipe is a perfect combination of nutty farro, earthy mushrooms, and savory thyme. With minimal prep time and quick cooking in the Instant Pot, you’ll have a delicious and satisfying side dish to accompany your favorite main courses.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup farro
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 8 oz mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start browning, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the farro, water or broth, thyme sprigs, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 6 minutes at high pressure.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 16 minutes (including pressure release)
Garlic Parmesan Instant Pot Farro
Elevate your grain game with this simple and flavorful recipe that combines nutty farro with savory garlic, rich parmesan cheese, and a hint of creaminess. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side dish for your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup farro
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt the butter.
2. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add farro and stir to coat with butter and garlic mixture. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
4. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Close the lid and set valve to “Sealing”.
5. Pressure cook on high for 6-8 minutes, followed by a 10-minute natural release.
6. Stir in parmesan cheese and heavy cream until melted and creamy.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 16-18 minutes
Mediterranean Instant Pot Farro Salad
Discover a flavorful and nutritious salad that combines the heartiness of farro with the bold flavors of the Mediterranean.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup farro
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 small red onion, finely chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the farro and add it to the Instant Pot with 2 cups of water.
2. Close the lid and set the valve to “sealing”. Cook on high pressure for 6 minutes, followed by a 10-minute natural release.
3. Release any remaining steam and open the lid.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, chopped red onion, artichoke hearts, feta cheese, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
5. Add the cooked farro to the bowl and toss to combine.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 16 minutes (including natural release)
Instant Pot Farro and Black Bean Bowl
A nutritious and flavorful one-pot meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup farro
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Press “Saute” on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the farro, black beans, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Add the chicken broth and stir again.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook on “Manual” mode at high pressure for 6 minutes, followed by a 10-minute natural release.
6. Open the lid and fluff the farro with a fork. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 16 minutes
Lemon Herb Instant Pot Farro Pilaf
This vibrant pilaf combines the nutty flavor of farro with the brightness of lemon and herbs, perfect for accompanying your favorite dishes. With just 10 minutes of hands-on time, this Instant Pot recipe is quick, easy, and delicious.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup farro
– 4 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, lemon juice, parsley, and thyme. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the farro and water or broth. Stir to combine.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 6 minutes at high pressure.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
7. Fluff the pilaf with a fork and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 11 minutes (including natural pressure release)
Instant Pot Farro Risotto with Asparagus
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of farro with the tender crunch of asparagus, all within the convenience of an Instant Pot. Perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup farro
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil. Add the onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the farro, chicken broth, and asparagus. Stir well.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 6 minutes at high pressure.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
6. Fluff the farro with a fork and stir in Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 16-17 minutes
Spicy Instant Pot Farro and Chickpea Stew
Looking for a hearty and flavorful one-pot meal? This Spicy Instant Pot Farro and Chickpea Stew is a perfect solution! With the combination of creamy farro, tender chickpeas, and a kick of heat from the red pepper flakes, you’ll be coming back for more.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup farro
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz)
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Press “Saute” on the Instant Pot and heat oil until shimmering.
2. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add farro, water or broth, chickpeas, cumin, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes. Stir to combine.
4. Close lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Cook on “Manual” mode at high pressure for 10 minutes, followed by a 10-minute natural release.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Instant Pot Farro with Roasted Vegetables
This recipe combines the nutty goodness of farro with the natural sweetness of roasted vegetables, all cooked to perfection in your Instant Pot. It’s a great option for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup farro
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, peeled and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 medium Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your choice of herbs (e.g., thyme, rosemary)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, carrots, and Brussels sprouts. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the farro and water to the Instant Pot. Stir to combine.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 10 minutes at high pressure.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
7. Season with salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs (if using).
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Creamy Instant Pot Farro with Spinach and Feta
This comforting dish combines the nutty flavor of farro, the creaminess of Greek yogurt, and the tanginess of feta cheese, all in a quick and easy Instant Pot recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup farro
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the farro, water or broth, and salt. Stir to combine.
5. Close the lid, set the valve to “Sealing”, and cook on high pressure for 6 minutes.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
7. Stir in the Greek yogurt and crumbled feta cheese. Add spinach leaves and stir until wilted.
8. Serve hot, with a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.
Cooking Time: 16-18 minutes
Instant Pot Farro and Sweet Potato Hash
This hearty, one-pot dish combines creamy farro with sweet and savory roasted sweet potatoes and a hint of smokiness from the chipotle peppers. Perfect for a comforting breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup farro
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and chipotle pepper; cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the farro, sweet potatoes, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” and set the cooking time to 6 minutes at high pressure.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 16 minutes (includes natural pressure release)
Instant Pot Farro with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Basil
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of farro with the sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes and the freshness of basil, all in a creamy Instant Pot dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup farro
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the farro, water, sun-dried tomatoes, basil, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 6 minutes at high pressure.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 16 minutes
Instant Pot Farro and Kale Soup
Warm up with a hearty and nutritious bowl of Instant Pot Farro and Kale Soup, perfect for a cozy night in or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup farro
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt 2 tablespoons of your favorite cooking oil.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
4. Add the farro, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 10 minutes at high pressure.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
7. Stir in the chopped kale and cook on “Saute” mode until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Instant Pot Farro with Sausage and Peppers
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of farro with spicy Italian sausage and sweet bell peppers, all cooked to perfection in your Instant Pot. It’s a satisfying and filling meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup farro
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Press “Saute” on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil. Add the sausage and cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onion, garlic, bell peppers, and oregano. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the farro, diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” and cook at high pressure for 6 minutes.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 16 minutes
Instant Pot Farro and Lentil Curry
This hearty, flavorful curry is a perfect blend of comforting grains and nutritious lentils, all cooked to perfection in the Instant Pot. With minimal prep time and easy cooking, this recipe makes a delicious meal for any day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup farro
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, cumin, and curry powder; cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the farro, lentils, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Close the lid, ensuring the valve is set to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 10 minutes at high pressure.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
7. Open the lid and garnish with fresh cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Instant Pot Farro with Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of farro with the creamy richness of pesto, all in one convenient Instant Pot meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup farro
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup freshly made or store-bought pesto
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add farro and toast for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently.
3. Add water and pesto, stir to combine.
4. Close the lid and make sure the valve is set to “SEALING”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 5 minutes at high pressure.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
6. Open the lid and add cherry tomatoes. Stir gently to combine.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Instant Pot Farro and Butternut Squash Stew
This autumnal stew combines the nutty flavor of farro with the sweetness of roasted butternut squash, all in one convenient and easy-to-make Instant Pot recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup farro
– 2 cups water
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil until shimmering.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the farro and water to the pot; stir to combine.
5. Place the squash on top of the farro mixture.
6. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook on “High Pressure” for 10 minutes, followed by a 10-minute natural release.
7. Open the lid and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Instant Pot Farro with Caramelized Onions and Goat Cheese
This hearty side dish combines the nutty flavor of farro with the sweetness of caramelized onions and the tanginess of goat cheese, all in one convenient pot.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup farro
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil until shimmering.
2. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until caramelized (about 10-12 minutes).
3. Add the farro, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and balsamic vinegar. Close the lid and make sure the valve is set to “Sealing”.
5. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and cook at high pressure for 6 minutes.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
7. Stir in the crumbled goat cheese and serve.
Cooking Time: 16-18 minutes
Instant Pot Farro and Chicken Skillet
This hearty one-pot meal combines flavorful farro with juicy chicken, tender vegetables, and a hint of Italian seasoning.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup farro
– 2 cups water or chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot. Add olive oil, onion, garlic, and red bell pepper. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
2. Add chicken, farro, water or broth, diced tomatoes, and oregano. Stir to combine.
3. Close the lid, making sure the valve is set to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set cooking time to 6 minutes at high pressure.
4. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
5. Open the lid and fluff farro with a fork. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 6 minutes at high pressure, plus 5 minute natural release
Instant Pot Farro with Avocado and Lime Dressing
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of farro with the creaminess of avocado and a burst of citrus from lime juice, all cooked to perfection in an Instant Pot. Perfect as a side dish or add some protein for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup farro
– 4 cups water
– 1/2 avocado, diced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt to taste
– Optional: protein of your choice (chicken, shrimp, etc.)
Instructions:
1. Add farro and water to the Instant Pot. Close lid and set valve.
2. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Let natural pressure release for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
3. Drain excess liquid from farro and add diced avocado, lime juice, and olive oil.
4. Stir well to combine. Season with salt to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional lime wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Instant Pot Farro and White Bean Chili
Warm up with this comforting, one-pot chili recipe that’s perfect for a cozy night in. This Instant Pot version is easy to make and packed with nutritious farro, tender white beans, and flavorful spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried farro
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and cook the onion until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic, farro, cannellini beans, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and cook at high pressure for 10 minutes.
4. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your weeknight meals with these 20 flavorful Instant Pot Farro recipes! From comforting bowls to vibrant salads, there’s something for everyone. Try pairing farro with sautéed mushrooms and thyme, or adding some heat with spicy chickpea stew. Other standout dishes include a creamy pilaf with spinach and feta, a hearty black bean bowl, and a Mediterranean-inspired salad. With these quick and easy recipes, you’ll never tire of the same old weeknight meals again.