Instant Pot® NOLA-Style Vegan Red Beans

Turn on a multi-functional pressure cooker (such as Instant Pot®) and select Saute function. Heat oil; saute frozen vegetable blend and garlic in the hot oil until soft, about 5 minutes. Add beans, followed by water and bay leaves. Turn off Saute function. Close and lock the lid.

Select high pressure according to manufacturer's instructions; set timer for 40 minutes. Allow 10 to 15 minutes for pressure to build.

Release pressure using the natural-release method according to manufacturer's instructions for at least 20 minutes. Unlock and remove the lid. Season with liquid smoke, salt, and pepper. Mix and smash the beans up as you like before serving.