Turn your Instant Pot to the “Sauté” function. Add the coconut oil. When melted, add the finely chopped shallot, minced ginger, and garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant and shallot is translucent.
Stir in the curry powder, ground turmeric, coconut sugar, and cayenne pepper. Toast the spices for an additional minute to enhance flavors.
Add the lentils to the pot and stir to coat with the spice mixture, infusing flavor.
Pour in 1 cup of water and the can of coconut milk. Add kosher salt and stir to combine, ensuring lentils are submerged.
Secure the Instant Pot lid, set valve to “Sealing.” Select “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” on high pressure for 15 minutes.
Allow pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then switch valve to “Venting” to release remaining pressure.
Open the lid and stir the curry. Add more water if too thick. Stir in freshly squeezed lemon juice to brighten flavors.
Serve the lentil curry over cooked brown rice and garnish with chopped fresh cilantro.