Before diving headfirst into the heartwarming world of instant pot beef stew, let’s talk about perfect pairings. This dish is a classic choice for family dinners, but serving it with the right sides can elevate your meal from good to unforgettable. Here are a few ideas that’ll make your taste buds dance:
- Crusty Bread: A slice of fresh sourdough or crusty baguette is perfect for sopping up the rich sauce. Toast it lightly for a perfect crunch!
- Mixed Greens Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty stew.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: If you’re a potato lover, you can never go wrong with creamy garlic mashed potatoes. Just think about the fluffy texture melting in your mouth.
- Steamed Vegetables: A side of steamed broccoli or green beans adds a vibrant splash of color and complements the stew’s deeper flavors.
Let me tell you a little story. The cold winter evening was creeping in, and outside, the world was cloaked in a frosty chill. I longed for something warm, comforting, and wholesome. Enter: the instant pot beef stew. This dish has been a staple in my kitchen for years. The aroma wafts through the house, beckoning everyone to gather around the family table. As a registered dietitian and food enthusiast, I find immense joy in cooking healthy meals that also bring warmth and comfort. Today, I will guide you through creating the perfect instant pot beef stew, packed with flavor and nutrition.
What Is Instant Pot Beef Stew?
At its core, instant pot beef stew is a rich, flavorful dish made from tender cuts of beef, vegetables, herbs, and broth, cooked to perfection in an electric pressure cooker. The combination of pressure cooking and a variety of ingredients melds together beautifully, creating a stew that’s hearty and satisfying. With a good cut of beef, fresh vegetables, and an aromatic blend of spices, there’s no reason this meal shouldn’t be a weekly go-to in your household.
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Why This Recipe Works
- Quick Cooking Time: The Instant Pot significantly reduces cooking time compared to traditional methods, making it accessible even on a busy weeknight.
- Flavor Infusion: The pressure cooker enhances flavors, allowing the beef to become tender and absorb the rich broth and spices.
- Versatility: This recipe is flexible. You can play with ingredients and make it your own without sacrificing taste.
What You’ll Need to Make This Dish
Here’s a look at the ingredients that make this instant pot beef stew sing:
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian herb blend
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1.5 pounds beef chuck stew meat, cut into chunks
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 3 garlic cloves, finely minced
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
- 1 (16-ounce) bag of baby carrots, sliced
- 1 pound Yukon Gold potatoes, cubed
- 2.5 cups rich beef stock
- 1 (10-ounce) can pure tomato puree
- 1 sprig fresh rosemary
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons cold water
How to Make Instant Pot Beef Stew
Before we delve into the step-by-step instructions, let me just say, this recipe is incredibly straightforward! Just throw together your ingredients, follow the steps, and before you know it, dinner will be served.
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by gathering everything you need. Chop the onions, mince the garlic, slice the carrots, and cube the potatoes. Have your beef ready to go. Having everything prepped will make the cooking process seamless and enjoyable.
Step 2: Sear the Meat
Set your Instant Pot to “sauté” mode. Add the olive oil and heat it up. Once it’s hot, add the beef chunks. Sprinkle them with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Sear the beef on all sides for about 5 to 7 minutes until browned. This step adds depth and richness to the stew.
Step 3: Add Aromatics
After browning the meat, stir in the minced garlic and diced onions. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the onions become translucent. Let those aromas fill your kitchen; it’s the smell of dinner magic!
Step 4: Deglaze the Pot
Pour in the Worcestershire sauce and scrape the bottom of the pot with a spatula. This is crucial because it lifts all those flavorful browning bits from the bottom. Those little pieces are key for a full-bodied flavor.
Step 5: Build Your Stew
Now, add the carrots, cubed potatoes, beef stock, and tomato puree into the pot. Toss in the sprig of rosemary for that additional flavor boost. Give everything a gentle stir to combine.
Step 6: Pressure Cook
Close the lid of the Instant Pot, ensuring the valve is set to “sealing.” Select the “manual” or “pressure cook” button and set the timer for 35 minutes. This magical appliance will do its thing, building pressure, and cooking your ingredients to tender perfection.
Step 7: Release Pressure
Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow the pot to naturally release for about 10 minutes. After that, switch the valve to “venting” to release any remaining steam. Open the lid carefully, and behold your glorious stew!
Step 8: Thicken the Sauce
To thicken the stew, combine cornstarch and cold water in a small bowl until smooth. Stir this mixture into the stew. Set the pot back into sauté mode for just a few minutes to let it thicken.
Tips for Perfecting Your Stew
- Choose the Right Cut of Meat: Chuck roast is ideal here as it becomes tender after cooking.
- Don’t Skip Searing: It’s worth the extra time! Searing creates layers of flavor.
- Fresh Herbs: Fresh rosemary can make a significant difference in flavor. Don’t substitute with dried if you can help it.
- Adjust to Taste: Remember to taste your stew before serving. You may want to add more seasoning.
- Let it Rest: Allowing the stew to sit for a few minutes after cooking can enhance the flavors.
How to Store Leftovers
Storing leftovers is simple. Allow your beef stew to cool to room temperature. Then, transfer it into airtight containers. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to eat, reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through. You can also freeze portions for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it thaw in the fridge before reheating!
Nutrition Information
This beef stew is not only delicious but also provides a balanced nutritional profile. Each serving contains approximately:
It’s packed with protein from the beef and fiber from vegetables, making it both filling and nutritious.
How Would I Recommend Serving Instant Pot Beef Stew?
Here are some servings suggestions that will put a twist on your classic beef stew experience:
- Over Rice: Serve it over fluffy white or brown rice. The rice soaks up the rich broth, making each mouthful delightful.
- With Noodles: Try it with wide egg noodles. The stew’s sauce enhances the noodles, transforming them into a comfort food classic.
- In a Bread Bowl: Serve it in a hollowed-out bread bowl. Not only is it visually appealing, but it also allows you to enjoy every last bit of stew as you munch your way through the bread!
- With a dollop of Sour Cream: Top it off with a bit of sour cream and fresh parsley. The creaminess balances the stew’s flavors beautifully.
What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients?
Sometimes you might not have an ingredient on hand. Here are some alternatives:
- Beef Chuck: Use stew meat from the round. It is another option but may require longer cooking to achieve tenderness.
- Baby Carrots: Cut regular carrots into smaller pieces. They will work just as well for that sweet crunch.
- Beef Stock: Chicken stock or vegetable broth can be used if needed. Just be aware that the flavor will slightly change.
- Tomato Puree: Diced tomatoes can work, but just make sure to adjust the liquid accordingly, as tomatoes contain more water.
Instant Pot Beef Stew Recipe
Equipment
- Instant pot
- Lid
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian herb blend
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1.5 pounds beef chuck stew meat cut into chunks
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 3 garlic cloves finely minced
- 1 large yellow onion diced
- 1 16-ounce bag of baby carrots, sliced
- 1 pound Yukon Gold potatoes cubed
- 2.5 cups rich beef stock
- 1 10-ounce can pure tomato puree
- 1 sprig fresh rosemary
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons cold water
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
- Start by gathering everything you need. Chop the onions, mince the garlic, slice the carrots, and cube the potatoes. Have your beef ready to go. Having everything prepped will make the cooking process seamless and enjoyable.
Step 2: Sear the Meat
- Set your Instant Pot to “sauté” mode. Add the olive oil and heat it up. Once it’s hot, add the beef chunks. Sprinkle them with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Sear the beef on all sides for about 5 to 7 minutes until browned. This step adds depth and richness to the stew.
Step 3: Add Aromatics
- After browning the meat, stir in the minced garlic and diced onions. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the onions become translucent. Let those aromas fill your kitchen; it’s the smell of dinner magic!
Step 4: Deglaze the Pot
- Pour in the Worcestershire sauce and scrape the bottom of the pot with a spatula. This is crucial because it lifts all those flavorful browning bits from the bottom. Those little pieces are key for a full-bodied flavor.
Step 5: Build Your Stew
- Now, add the carrots, cubed potatoes, beef stock, and tomato puree into the pot. Toss in the sprig of rosemary for that additional flavor boost. Give everything a gentle stir to combine.
Step 6: Pressure Cook
- Close the lid of the Instant Pot, ensuring the valve is set to “sealing.” Select the “manual” or “pressure cook” button and set the timer for 35 minutes. This magical appliance will do its thing, building pressure, and cooking your ingredients to tender perfection.
Step 7: Release Pressure
- Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow the pot to naturally release for about 10 minutes. After that, switch the valve to “venting” to release any remaining steam. Open the lid carefully, and behold your glorious stew!
Step 8: Thicken the Sauce
- To thicken the stew, combine cornstarch and cold water in a small bowl until smooth. Stir this mixture into the stew. Set the pot back into sauté mode for just a few minutes to let it thicken.
Notes
- Choose the Right Cut of Meat: Chuck roast is ideal here as it becomes tender after cooking.
- Don’t Skip Searing: It’s worth the extra time! Searing creates layers of flavor.
- Fresh Herbs: Fresh rosemary can make a significant difference in flavor. Don’t substitute with dried if you can help it.
- Adjust to Taste: Remember to taste your stew before serving. You may want to add more seasoning.
- Let it Rest: Allowing the stew to sit for a few minutes after cooking can enhance the flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen beef?
Yes, but it’s best to thaw it before cooking. You can pressure cook from frozen, but the cooking time will need to increase.
What if my stew turns out too salty?
To counteract saltiness, try adding more vegetables or a tablespoon of sugar.
Can I make this stew without an Instant Pot?
Absolutely! You can use a slow cooker or stovetop. The cooking time will just be longer.
What if I want my stew thicker?
Adding cornstarch or flour mixed with water to the stew while cooking is great, or simply let it simmer longer.
Is it okay to add more veggies?
Yes! Feel free to customize with your favorites, like peas or bell peppers.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes! Stew is often even better the next day, as the flavors meld together.
Conclusion
In the end, instant pot beef stew is a true embodiment of comfort food. It warms the soul while bringing the family together around the dinner table. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a delightful dish that’s nourishing and fulfilling. Whether you’re serving it for a casual weeknight dinner or on a chilly Sunday, this recipe is bound to become a favorite. Give it a try, and I promise you’ll be left with a delightful aroma in your kitchen, and satisfied smiles around your dining table. Happy cooking!
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My name is Lori Walker. I’m a registered dietitian, food blogger and food enthusiast. I share easy healthy, delicious recipes on my blog and review necessary kitchen items. The recipes I share take less… Read more