Corned beef and cabbage is a classic dish that’s often associated with St. Patrick’s Day, but it’s a delicious meal that can be enjoyed any time of the year. The traditional method of cooking corned beef and cabbage involves boiling the ingredients in a large pot of water, but this can be a time-consuming and labor-intensive process. Fortunately, the Instant Pot has made it possible to cook this dish quickly and easily, with minimal effort required.
Why Use an Instant Pot to Cook Corned Beef and Cabbage?
There are several reasons why using an Instant Pot to cook corned beef and cabbage is a great idea. Here are a few of the benefits:
- Faster Cooking Time: The Instant Pot can cook corned beef and cabbage up to 70% faster than traditional cooking methods. This means that you can have a delicious, home-cooked meal on the table in under an hour.
- Easier to Use: The Instant Pot is incredibly easy to use, even for those who are new to pressure cooking. Simply add your ingredients, set the timer, and let the Instant Pot do the work for you.
- Tender and Flavorful Results: The Instant Pot’s pressure cooking function helps to break down the connective tissues in the corned beef, resulting in a tender and flavorful final product.
Ingredients and Equipment Needed
Before you start cooking, make sure you have the following ingredients and equipment:
- 1 pound corned beef brisket
- 1 medium-sized cabbage, cut into wedges
- 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Instant Pot or other electric pressure cooker
- Large bowl or container for serving
Choosing the Right Cut of Corned Beef
When it comes to choosing the right cut of corned beef, there are several options to consider. Here are a few of the most popular cuts:
- Flat Cut: This is the most popular cut of corned beef, and it’s known for its tender and lean texture.
- Point Cut: This cut is taken from the thicker end of the brisket, and it’s known for its rich, beefy flavor.
- Round Cut: This cut is taken from the rear leg of the cow, and it’s known for its tender and lean texture.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Cooking Instant Pot Corned Beef and Cabbage
Now that you have all of the ingredients and equipment you need, it’s time to start cooking. Here’s a step-by-step guide to cooking delicious Instant Pot corned beef and cabbage:
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Before you start cooking, make sure to prepare all of the ingredients. This includes slicing the onion, mincing the garlic, and cutting the cabbage into wedges.
Step 2: Brown the Corned Beef
Browning the corned beef is an important step in the cooking process, as it helps to create a rich and flavorful crust on the outside of the meat. To brown the corned beef, press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the pot until it reads “HOT”. Then, add the corned beef to the pot and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until it’s nicely browned.
Step 3: Add the Remaining Ingredients
Once the corned beef is browned, it’s time to add the remaining ingredients to the pot. This includes the sliced onion, minced garlic, beef broth, brown sugar, mustard seeds, salt, and pepper. Stir all of the ingredients together, then add the cabbage and potatoes to the pot.
Step 4: Close the Lid and Set the Timer
Now that all of the ingredients are in the pot, it’s time to close the lid and set the timer. Make sure the valve is set to “SEALING”, then press the “Meat/Stew” button or “Manual” mode and set the cooking time to 90 minutes at high pressure.
Step 5: Let the Pressure Release
Once the cooking time has elapsed, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10-15 minutes. Then, quick-release any remaining pressure by opening the valve.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once the pressure has been released, it’s time to serve and enjoy your delicious Instant Pot corned beef and cabbage. Remove the corned beef from the pot and slice it thinly against the grain. Serve the sliced corned beef with the cabbage, potatoes, and onions, and spoon some of the juices from the pot over the top.
Tips and Variations for Cooking Instant Pot Corned Beef and Cabbage
Here are a few tips and variations to keep in mind when cooking Instant Pot corned beef and cabbage:
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure that the corned beef is cooked to a safe internal temperature, use a meat thermometer to check the temperature of the meat. The internal temperature should be at least 160°F (71°C).
- Add Some Spice: To add some extra flavor to your corned beef and cabbage, try adding some spices to the pot. Some options include ground cloves, ground allspice, and ground ginger.
- Use Different Types of Cabbage: While green cabbage is the most traditional type of cabbage to use in corned beef and cabbage, you can also use red cabbage or savoy cabbage for a different flavor and texture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cooking Instant Pot Corned Beef and Cabbage
Here are a few common mistakes to avoid when cooking Instant Pot corned beef and cabbage:
- Not Browning the Corned Beef: Browning the corned beef is an important step in the cooking process, as it helps to create a rich and flavorful crust on the outside of the meat. Make sure to brown the corned beef before adding the remaining ingredients to the pot.
- Not Cooking the Corned Beef Long Enough: Corned beef can be a tough and dense type of meat, and it needs to be cooked for a long time to become tender. Make sure to cook the corned beef for at least 90 minutes to ensure that it’s tender and flavorful.
- Not Letting the Pressure Release: After the cooking time has elapsed, it’s essential to let the pressure release naturally for 10-15 minutes. This helps to prevent the corned beef from becoming tough and dense.
Conclusion
Cooking Instant Pot corned beef and cabbage is a simple and delicious way to prepare this classic dish. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can create a tender and flavorful corned beef with perfectly cooked cabbage and potatoes. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy meal or a special occasion dish, Instant Pot corned beef and cabbage is sure to please.
What is the best cut of corned beef to use in the Instant Pot?
The best cut of corned beef to use in the Instant Pot is a flat cut or a point cut. A flat cut is leaner and has less fat, making it a popular choice for those looking for a healthier option. On the other hand, a point cut has more fat, which makes it more tender and flavorful. Both cuts work well in the Instant Pot, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference.
When selecting a cut of corned beef, look for one that is labeled “flat cut” or “point cut.” You can also ask your butcher for a recommendation. Keep in mind that a larger cut of corned beef may need to be trimmed to fit in the Instant Pot, so be sure to plan accordingly.
How long does it take to cook corned beef and cabbage in the Instant Pot?
The cooking time for corned beef and cabbage in the Instant Pot will depend on the size and type of corned beef you are using. Generally, a 2-3 pound flat cut of corned beef will take around 90 minutes to cook, while a point cut may take around 60-90 minutes. Cabbage typically takes around 5-10 minutes to cook, so you can add it to the Instant Pot during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
It’s also important to note that the Instant Pot will take some time to come to pressure before the cooking time begins. This can take around 10-15 minutes, depending on the size of your Instant Pot and the amount of liquid you are using. Be sure to factor this time into your overall cooking time to ensure that your corned beef and cabbage are cooked to perfection.
Do I need to soak the corned beef before cooking it in the Instant Pot?
Soaking the corned beef before cooking it in the Instant Pot is not necessary, but it can help to reduce the sodium content of the dish. Corned beef is typically cured in a salty brine, which can make it quite salty. Soaking the corned beef in water or a flavorful liquid can help to rinse away some of this excess salt.
If you do choose to soak your corned beef, be sure to pat it dry with paper towels before cooking it in the Instant Pot. This will help to remove excess moisture and promote even cooking. You can also add aromatics like onions and garlic to the soaking liquid for added flavor.
Can I cook corned beef and cabbage in the Instant Pot without liquid?
No, it’s not recommended to cook corned beef and cabbage in the Instant Pot without liquid. The Instant Pot uses steam pressure to cook food, and liquid is necessary to create this steam. Without liquid, the Instant Pot may not be able to come to pressure, and the corned beef and cabbage may not cook evenly.
Instead, use a flavorful liquid like beef broth or Guinness stout to cook the corned beef and cabbage. This will not only help to create steam, but it will also add flavor to the dish. You can also add aromatics like onions and carrots to the liquid for added flavor.
How do I prevent the corned beef from becoming tough in the Instant Pot?
To prevent the corned beef from becoming tough in the Instant Pot, it’s essential to cook it low and slow. This means cooking the corned beef at a lower pressure and for a longer period. You can also use a natural release instead of a quick release to help the corned beef retain its tenderness.
Another tip is to slice the corned beef against the grain after it’s cooked. This will help to break down the fibers and make the corned beef more tender. You can also use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the corned beef. It should be at least 160°F (71°C) for medium-rare and 180°F (82°C) for medium.
Can I cook frozen corned beef in the Instant Pot?
Yes, you can cook frozen corned beef in the Instant Pot, but it will take longer to cook. Frozen corned beef will need to be cooked for an additional 30-60 minutes, depending on the size and type of corned beef. It’s also essential to make sure that the corned beef is fully submerged in liquid to ensure even cooking.
When cooking frozen corned beef, it’s also important to note that the texture and flavor may be slightly different than fresh corned beef. Frozen corned beef can be more prone to drying out, so be sure to check on it regularly to ensure that it’s not overcooking.
How do I store leftover corned beef and cabbage?
Leftover corned beef and cabbage can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. When storing leftovers, be sure to cool them to room temperature first to prevent bacterial growth. Then, transfer the leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate or freeze.
When reheating leftovers, you can use the Instant Pot or a stovetop. Simply add a little liquid to the pot and heat the leftovers over low heat until warmed through. You can also add some fresh cabbage or other vegetables to the leftovers for added flavor and nutrition.