Sizzling success: cooking flat iron steak in the instant pot – your time-saving solution

Flat iron steak, known for its tender texture and rich flavor, is a popular choice for grilling or pan-frying. However, with the convenience of an Instant Pot, you can cook a juicy and perfectly cooked flat iron steak in a fraction of the time. If you’re wondering “how long to cook flat iron steak in instant pot,” this comprehensive guide will provide you with all the essential information you need.

Choosing the Right Flat Iron Steak

The first step in cooking a great flat iron steak is selecting a quality cut of meat. Look for a steak that is about 1-inch thick and has a nice marbling of fat. This will ensure that your steak cooks evenly and remains tender.

Seasoning the Steak

Before cooking, season the steak generously with salt and pepper. You can also add other spices or herbs, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or rosemary. Seasoning the steak helps to enhance its natural flavor and create a delicious crust.

Cooking the Steak

Now it’s time to cook the steak in your Instant Pot. Here are the steps:

1. Add liquids: Pour 1 cup of beef broth or water into the Instant Pot. This liquid will help create steam and cook the steak evenly.
2. Place the steak in the pot: Place the seasoned steak on a trivet or steamer rack inside the Instant Pot.
3. Set the cooking time: For a medium-rare steak, cook for 10-12 minutes at high pressure. For a medium steak, cook for 12-14 minutes. For a medium-well steak, cook for 14-16 minutes.
4. Natural release: Once the cooking time is complete, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes. This will help the steak continue cooking and ensure it is tender.
5. Quick release: After 10 minutes, release any remaining pressure by turning the pressure release valve to the venting position.

Resting the Steak

After cooking, it’s important to let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.

Slicing and Serving

Slice the steak against the grain into thin slices. Serve immediately with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a side salad.

Tips for Cooking Flat Iron Steak in Instant Pot

• Use a meat thermometer: To ensure your steak is cooked to your desired doneness, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature.
• Don’t overcrowd the pot: If cooking multiple steaks, cook them in batches to avoid overcrowding the pot.
• Deglaze the pot: After cooking the steak, remove it from the pot and deglaze the pot with a little bit of red wine or beef broth. This will create a delicious sauce that you can serve with the steak.
• Add vegetables: To make a complete meal, add vegetables such as carrots, onions, or potatoes to the pot along with the steak.

Troubleshooting

• Steak is tough: If your steak is tough, it may have been overcooked. Try reducing the cooking time next time.
• Steak is dry: If your steak is dry, it may not have been cooked with enough liquid. Try adding more beef broth or water next time.
• Steak is not cooked evenly: If your steak is not cooked evenly, it may have been overcrowded in the pot. Try cooking the steaks in batches next time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the best way to season a flat iron steak?
A: Season the steak generously with salt and pepper. You can also add other spices or herbs, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or rosemary.

Q: How long should I cook a flat iron steak in the Instant Pot for it to be medium-rare?
A: Cook a flat iron steak for 10-12 minutes at high pressure for a medium-rare steak.

Q: Can I cook vegetables in the Instant Pot with the steak?
A: Yes, you can add vegetables such as carrots, onions, or potatoes to the pot along with the steak.