Set Instant Pot to Saute on High, and add the olive oil.
¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
Once the oil is hot, add the onion, carrots, celery and garlic. Saute the veggies, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften.
1 medium onion, 2 medium carrots, 3 stalks of celery, 6 cloves of garlic
Stir in the diced tomatoes and saute for another 1-2 minutes. Use the acidity of the tomatoes to scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
1 14.5-ounce can diced tomatoes
Add the potatoes, water, and spices. Stir to combine.
2 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, 6 cups water, 1 tbsp sea salt, 1 tsp ground black pepper, 2 bay leaves
Stir in the dried lentils. Set the Instant Pot to Pressure Cook on High for 15 minutes. Once cooking time is complete, quick-release the pressure according to the manufacturer's directions.
16 oz dried lentils
Carefully open the Instant Pot and stir in the red wine vinegar.
1 tbsp red wine vinegar
Remove the bay leaves and enjoy with fresh bread (or cheddar biscuits)!
Notes
Note - Lentils: I use brown lentils in my Fakes. I recommend brown or green lentils (not to be confused with French green lentils). Brown or green lentils are soft-firm when cooked and are great for soups.