Beef stew is a classic comfort food dish that never goes out of style. It’s a staple in many cuisines around the world, and for good reason – it’s hearty, flavorful, and can be made with a variety of ingredients to suit any taste. In this article, we’ll show you how to make a delicious beef stew in an Instant Pot pressure cooker, a versatile kitchen appliance that can help you cook a wide range of dishes quickly and efficiently.
Why Use an Instant Pot Pressure Cooker?
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s talk about why using an Instant Pot pressure cooker is a great idea. Here are just a few benefits:
- Faster Cooking Time: The Instant Pot can cook food up to 70% faster than traditional cooking methods, making it perfect for busy home cooks who want to get a meal on the table quickly.
- Easy to Use: The Instant Pot is incredibly easy to use, even for those who are new to pressure cooking. Simply add your ingredients, close the lid, and let the Instant Pot do the work for you.
- Versatile: The Instant Pot is not just a pressure cooker – it’s also a slow cooker, rice cooker, yogurt maker, and sauté pan. This means you can use it to make a wide range of dishes, from soups and stews to grains and desserts.
Ingredients and Equipment Needed
To make this recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients and equipment:
- 2 pounds beef stew meat (such as chuck or round)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Instant Pot pressure cooker
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Choosing the Right Cut of Beef
When it comes to making beef stew, the type of beef you use is important. You want to choose a cut that’s tough and chewy, as this will become tender and flavorful during the cooking process. Some good options include:
- Chuck: This is a classic choice for beef stew, and for good reason. It’s tender, flavorful, and has a great texture.
- Round: This is another popular choice for beef stew, and it’s known for its lean flavor and tender texture.
- Brisket: This is a great choice if you want a heartier, more robust stew. It’s got a lot of connective tissue, which will break down during cooking and add flavor to the stew.
Instructions
Now that we’ve covered the ingredients and equipment needed, let’s move on to the instructions. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making beef stew in an Instant Pot pressure cooker:
Browning the Beef
The first step in making beef stew is to brown the beef. This will add flavor to the stew and create a rich, caramelized crust on the beef. To do this:
- Heat the olive oil in the Instant Pot using the “saute” function.
- Add the beef to the pot and cook until it’s browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
- Remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.
Soften the Onions and Garlic
Next, you’ll want to soften the onions and garlic. This will add flavor to the stew and create a rich, savory aroma. To do this:
- Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until it’s softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional minute.
Add the Remaining Ingredients
Now it’s time to add the remaining ingredients to the pot. This includes the chopped carrots and potatoes, beef broth, red wine (if using), thyme, and rosemary. Stir to combine, then add the browned beef back to the pot.
Cook the Stew
To cook the stew, simply close the lid of the Instant Pot and set the valve to “sealing”. Then, press the “meat/stew” button or “manual” mode and set the cooking time to 30 minutes at high pressure.
Let the Pressure Release
Once the cooking time has elapsed, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10-15 minutes. This will help the stew to cool down and the flavors to meld together.
Season and Serve
Finally, it’s time to season and serve the stew. To do this:
- Taste the stew and add salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve the stew hot, garnished with fresh herbs or crusty bread.
Tips and Variations
Here are a few tips and variations to keep in mind when making beef stew in an Instant Pot pressure cooker:
- Use a Variety of Vegetables: While carrots and potatoes are classic additions to beef stew, you can also use other vegetables like peas, corn, and mushrooms.
- Add Some Heat: If you like spicy food, you can add some red pepper flakes or diced jalapenos to the stew for an extra kick.
- Use Different Types of Broth: While beef broth is a classic choice for beef stew, you can also use chicken or vegetable broth for a different flavor.
- Make it a Stew and Dumplings: To make a stew and dumplings, simply add some biscuit or dumpling mix to the pot during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
Conclusion
Making beef stew in an Instant Pot pressure cooker is a great way to create a delicious, comforting meal with minimal effort. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can create a rich, flavorful stew that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a busy home cook or an experienced chef, the Instant Pot is a versatile kitchen appliance that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
What are the benefits of making beef stew in an Instant Pot pressure cooker?
Making beef stew in an Instant Pot pressure cooker offers several benefits. One of the main advantages is the significant reduction in cooking time. Traditional beef stew recipes can take hours to cook, but with an Instant Pot, you can have a delicious and tender stew ready in under an hour. This is especially useful for busy home cooks who want to prepare a hearty meal without spending too much time in the kitchen.
Another benefit of using an Instant Pot is that it allows for even cooking and tenderization of the beef. The high pressure and heat of the Instant Pot break down the connective tissues in the meat, resulting in a tender and fall-apart texture that is hard to achieve with traditional cooking methods.
What type of beef is best for making beef stew in an Instant Pot?
The best type of beef for making beef stew in an Instant Pot is a tougher cut of meat that becomes tender with slow cooking. Some popular options include chuck roast, round roast, and short ribs. These cuts of meat are perfect for the Instant Pot because they are relatively inexpensive and become tender and flavorful with the high pressure and heat of the cooker.
When selecting a cut of beef for your stew, look for one that is well-marbled with fat, as this will add flavor and tenderness to the dish. You can also use a combination of different cuts of beef for added texture and flavor.
How do I brown the beef for the stew in the Instant Pot?
Browning the beef for the stew is an important step that adds flavor and texture to the dish. To brown the beef in the Instant Pot, press the “Saute” button and heat the pot until it reads “HOT”. Then, add a small amount of oil to the pot and swirl it around to coat the bottom. Add the beef to the pot and cook until it is browned on all sides, stirring occasionally.
It’s essential to brown the beef in batches if necessary, to ensure that each piece is cooked evenly. This will also prevent the beef from steaming instead of browning. Once the beef is browned, remove it from the pot and set it aside until it’s time to add it back to the stew.
Can I add other ingredients to the stew, such as potatoes and carrots?
Yes, you can add other ingredients to the stew, such as potatoes and carrots. In fact, these ingredients are classic additions to beef stew and add natural sweetness and texture to the dish. When adding potatoes and carrots, make sure to peel and chop them into bite-sized pieces before adding them to the pot.
Other ingredients you can add to the stew include onions, garlic, celery, and mushrooms. These ingredients will add flavor and texture to the dish, and can be sautéed with the beef at the beginning of the recipe. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time and liquid levels according to the ingredients you add.
How long does it take to cook the stew in the Instant Pot?
The cooking time for the stew in the Instant Pot will depend on the type and amount of ingredients you use, as well as your personal preference for tenderness. Generally, a beef stew recipe will take around 30-40 minutes to cook in the Instant Pot, including the time it takes for the pot to come to pressure.
Once the cooking time is up, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10-15 minutes before opening the lid and checking the stew. If the beef is not tender, you can close the lid and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes.
Can I make the stew ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze it?
Yes, you can make the stew ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze it for later use. In fact, the flavors of the stew will meld together and intensify over time, making it even more delicious. To refrigerate the stew, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container and storing it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To freeze the stew, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag. Frozen stew will keep for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, simply thaw the stew overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it in the Instant Pot or on the stovetop.
How do I serve the beef stew?
The beef stew can be served hot, garnished with fresh herbs and crusty bread on the side. You can also serve it with mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice for a heartier meal. If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mix a little cornstarch or flour with water and add it to the pot before serving.
Another option is to serve the stew with a side of steamed vegetables, such as broccoli or green beans, for a well-rounded and nutritious meal. You can also serve the stew in bowls and let everyone add their own toppings, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, or diced onions.