Elevate your weeknights: how to make mouthwatering beef stew in the instant pot

Craving a hearty and comforting beef stew? Look no further than your trusty Instant Pot! This beloved kitchen appliance takes the hassle out of cooking, making it effortless to create a delectable beef stew in a fraction of the time. Follow this comprehensive guide to master the art of beef stew in your Instant Pot and savor a flavorful dish that will warm your soul.

Ingredients for a Perfect Beef Stew

To craft a mouthwatering beef stew, gather the following ingredients:

• 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup red wine (optional)
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon dried thyme
• 1 tablespoon dried rosemary
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Guide to Instant Pot Beef Stew

1. Sauté the Vegetables:

• Turn on your Instant Pot to the “Sauté” setting.
• Add olive oil and sauté the onion, carrots, and celery until softened.
• Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.

2. Brown the Beef:

• Add the beef cubes to the pot and brown them on all sides.

3. Deglaze the Pot (Optional):

• If using red wine, pour it into the pot and scrape up any browned bits. Let it simmer until the wine has reduced by half.

4. Add Liquids and Seasonings:

• Pour in the beef broth, diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Pressure Cook:

• Secure the lid and set the Instant Pot to “Pressure Cook” on high for 30 minutes.

6. Natural Release:

• Once the timer goes off, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes.

7. Thicken the Stew (Optional):

• If desired, remove the lid and simmer the stew on the “Sauté” setting until thickened. You can also make a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water) and whisk it into the stew to thicken it.

Tips for Enhancing Flavors

• Use a good quality beef chuck roast for a richer flavor.
• Marinate the beef overnight in a mixture of red wine, herbs, and spices for extra depth of flavor.
• Add a splash of balsamic vinegar to enhance the sweetness and acidity.
• Stir in some chopped mushrooms or peas for added texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Instant Pot beef stew with:

• Mashed potatoes
• Crusty bread
• Rice
• A side salad

Takeaways: Savoring the Comfort of Beef Stew

With this foolproof guide, you can effortlessly create a mouthwatering beef stew in your Instant Pot. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a comforting meal for one, this hearty and flavorful dish will delight your taste buds and warm your soul. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your Instant Pot, and embark on a culinary adventure that will leave you craving for more.

Top Questions Asked

Q: What is the best cut of beef for stew?
A: Chuck roast, brisket, or bottom round roast are excellent choices for beef stew.

Q: Can I use frozen beef for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen beef. However, it will need to be thawed before cooking.

Q: How can I make my beef stew thicker?
A: You can thicken your beef stew by simmering it on the “Sauté” setting until it reaches your desired consistency. You can also add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch ++ 2 tablespoons water) to thicken it.

Q: Can I add other vegetables to my beef stew?
A: Yes, you can add other vegetables to your beef stew, such as potatoes, green beans, or corn.

Q: How long can I store beef stew in the refrigerator?
A: Beef stew can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.