Instant Pot Beef Stew

$- 2 lbs beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes - 4 cups beef broth - 3 medium carrots, sliced - 2 medium potatoes, diced - 1 onion, chopped - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 tablespoon tomato paste - 1 teaspoon dried thyme - 1 teaspoon dried rosemary - 1 bay leaf - Salt and pepper to taste - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce - 1 cup frozen peas You can customize this beef stew by adding your favorite veggies. Try bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor. If you like spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. Fresh vegetables and good meat make your stew taste better. Look for bright, crisp carrots and firm potatoes. Choose beef that is red and marbled. This gives the stew a rich flavor. For beef broth, I love using brands like Kitchen Basics or Swanson. They offer a deep flavor that enhances your stew. Always check the label for low-sodium options to control salt levels. Using high-quality ingredients will ensure your Instant Pot beef stew is a hit! Start by cutting your vegetables. For the carrots, slice them into rounds about 1/2 inch thick. Dice the potatoes into 1-inch cubes. Chop the onion finely. Mince the garlic. This prep helps the stew cook evenly and taste great. Next, we need to sear the beef. Set your Instant Pot to the Sauté mode and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Let it heat up. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onion looks clear. Now, add the beef stew meat, about 2 lbs. Season it with salt and pepper. Brown the meat on all sides, which takes about 5-7 minutes. This step adds flavor to your stew. Now, let's cook the stew. After browning the beef, stir in 1 tablespoon of tomato paste. Make sure the beef is well-coated. Pour in 4 cups of beef broth along with 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, the carrots, diced potatoes, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary, and 1 bay leaf. Mix well. Close the lid of the Instant Pot and seal the vent. Set it to High Pressure for 35 minutes. This is where the magic happens! While it cooks, the flavors meld together beautifully. Once the timer goes off, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes. After that, carefully open the vent to release any remaining pressure. For the final touch, stir in 1 cup of frozen peas. Let the stew sit for another 5 minutes. This warms the peas perfectly without overcooking them. Now, taste your stew and adjust the seasoning if needed. If you want it thicker, you can cook it a bit longer on Sauté mode to reduce the liquid. Don’t forget to remove the bay leaf before serving. That's all! You just made a hearty and quick beef stew using your Instant Pot. For the full recipe, check out the detailed steps above. - Overcrowding the Instant Pot: If you add too much meat or veggies, they won’t cook evenly. Stick to the recipe amounts for best results. - Incorrect pressure settings: Make sure to set the Instant Pot correctly. High pressure is key for tender meat. - Suggestions for additional spices and herbs: Add a pinch of paprika for warmth. Try a dash of cumin for depth. Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro can brighten the stew. - How to thicken the stew if desired: Mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water. Stir it in during the last few minutes of cooking for a thicker stew. - How to adjust cooking time for different cuts of beef: For tougher cuts, like chuck roast, increase the cooking time to 45 minutes. For tender cuts, you can reduce it to 30 minutes. - Ideas for side dishes to pair with beef stew: Serve with warm crusty bread or fluffy rice. A fresh salad can also balance the meal nicely. You can find the full recipe above to get started on this delicious meal. {{image_2}} You can switch up the beef stew by using other meats. Chicken or pork works well. If you prefer plant-based options, try tempeh or tofu. Each protein needs different cook times. For chicken, set the Instant Pot for 25 minutes. For pork, use 30 minutes. Plant-based proteins may need only about 15 minutes. To make a vegetarian or vegan stew, skip the meat. Use mushrooms for a hearty texture. For broth, opt for vegetable stock instead of beef broth. Add more veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or beans. You can even throw in lentils for extra protein. This makes a filling stew that everyone can enjoy. Want to spice things up? Try an Asian twist by adding soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil. You can use bok choy instead of peas for a fresh crunch. For a Southwest flavor, mix in cumin, chili powder, and corn. Top with fresh cilantro to brighten the dish. Each variation gives a unique taste to your stew. For the full recipe, check out the detailed steps and ingredients list. After you make beef stew, let it cool down. Store leftovers in a tight container. This keeps it fresh. You can keep it in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to enjoy it later, freezing is the way to go. To freeze beef stew, let it cool fully. Use freezer-safe containers or bags. Be sure to remove air to avoid freezer burn. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. Stir it well to ensure even heat. For easy lunches, portion the stew into single servings. This makes it quick to grab when you are busy. Pair it with rice or noodles for a more filling meal. You can even add fresh herbs on top for extra flavor. These tips help you enjoy your beef stew and save time on busy days. For the full recipe, check out the details above. Making beef stew in an Instant Pot is quick. Here is the time breakdown: - Prep time: About 15 minutes. - Cook time: 35 minutes on high pressure. - Release time: 10 minutes for natural release, then quick release for any remaining pressure. In total, expect to spend about an hour from start to finish. Yes, you can use frozen beef. Just remember a few tips: - Increase the cooking time by about 5-10 minutes. - Cut the meat into smaller pieces if possible. - Don’t thaw it first. The Instant Pot will handle it. Using frozen beef is a great way to save time. Pressure cooking cooks food fast, while slow cooking takes longer. Here are some pros and cons: - Pressure cooking: - Pros: Quick meal, tender meat, rich flavors. - Cons: Less time for flavors to develop. - Slow cooking: - Pros: Deep flavors, great for tough cuts. - Cons: Takes several hours to cook. Choose based on your time and taste needs. Absolutely! If you want to switch up the flavor, try these: - Chicken broth: Lighter taste, works well with beef. - Vegetable broth: Great for a lighter, plant-based option. - Mushroom broth: Adds a deep, umami flavor. Experimenting with broth can change the stew's personality. For the full recipe, check out the section above! You now have a clear guide for making beef stew in an Instant Pot. We covered ingredients, preparation, and cooking steps. You learned how to avoid common mistakes and enhance flavors. I shared storage tips and meal prep ideas, so your stew lasts longer. Remember, customization is key. Experiment with different proteins and flavors. Enjoy making this hearty dish your own!$

Discover the ultimate Savory Instant Pot Beef Stew recipe that will warm your heart and satisfy your cravings. This hearty dish combines tender beef, fresh vegetables, and rich flavors, all cooked to perfection in your Instant Pot. In just an hour, you can create a comforting meal that serves six, perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in. Click through to explore this easy recipe and elevate your cooking game today!

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Ingredients

2 lbs beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes

4 cups beef broth

3 medium carrots, sliced

2 medium potatoes, diced

1 onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon tomato paste

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon dried rosemary

1 bay leaf

Salt and pepper to taste

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

1 cup frozen peas

Instructions

Begin by setting your Instant Pot to the Sauté mode. Add the olive oil and let it heat up.

Once hot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onions are translucent and fragrant.

Add the cubed beef stew meat to the pot. Season with salt and pepper, then brown the meat on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.

Stir in the tomato paste, ensuring that the beef is coated well before adding the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, carrots, potatoes, thyme, rosemary, and the bay leaf.

Close the lid of the Instant Pot and seal the vent. Set it to High Pressure for 35 minutes.

Once the cooking time is up, allow the pressure to naturally release for 10 minutes, then carefully open the vent to release any remaining pressure.

Stir in the frozen peas and let the stew sit for an additional 5 minutes to warm them up.

Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Remove the bay leaf before serving.

Prep Time: 15 min | Total Time: 1 hr | Servings: 6