Press the SAUTE setting on your Instant Pot or electric pressure cooker and add 1/4 cup water or broth. When hot, add onion and sauté for 4 minutes. Add the smoked paprika and garlic powder, cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant, stirring frequently.
Next add the lentils, water/broth, tomato paste, maple syrup, lemon juice, mustard, ground pepper and salt, gently stir until the tomato paste is dissolved completely and everything is well combined.
Attach the lid, and make sure the vent is in the SEALED position. On the Instant Pot, push the PRESSURE COOKER button, and manually set at HIGH for 10 minutes (or equivalent on electric pressure cooker). When done, let the steam vent on its own for about 15 minutes. Open the vent to release remaining steam, careful not to burn yourself. Remove lid, lifting away from your face, and let cool a bit; add salt to taste.
If too thick, add a 2 tablespoons of water at a time, mix well, and repeat until desired consistency.