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.
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.