The Instant Pot—my kitchen hero, especially on those days when time feels like a luxury. This beef stew, oh, it’s like a warm hug in a bowl—seriously cozy and bursting with flavors that’ll make you want to dance (or maybe just sigh contentedly). Imagine tender chunks of beef, carrots, and potatoes mingling in a rich, savory broth—it’s the kind of dish that makes me think of rainy Sundays and the smell of damp earth, and I can’t help but smile.
Steps
- Start by adding olive oil to the Instant Pot and select the sauté function. Once the oil is hot, add the beef and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, cooking until all sides are browned.
- Pour in the beef broth and use a spoon to deglaze the pot by scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Add Worcestershire sauce, garlic, onion, carrots, potatoes, and tomato sauce.
- Secure the lid and close the steam valve. Set the Instant Pot to cook on high pressure for 35 minutes, allowing the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes before performing a quick release.
- In a small bowl, mix together cornstarch and cold water. Stir this mixture into the stew while it’s still hot until the desired thickness is achieved.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 pounds beef, cut into cubes
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 carrots, sliced
- 4 potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons cold water
Nutritional Values
Calories: 1536kcal | Carbohydrates: 92g | Protein: 168g | Fat: 48g | Saturated Fat: 12g | Cholesterol: 420mg | Sodium: 5332mg | Potassium: 4984mg | Fiber: 12g | Sugar: 8g | Vitamin A: 140IU | Vitamin C: 66.8mg | Calcium: 412mg | Iron: 32.8mg
FAQ
- How many servings does this Instant Pot Beef Stew recipe make?
- This recipe yields enough to serve four people. However, there’s sufficient room in the Instant Pot if you wish to double the recipe for more servings.
- Can I double the recipe in my Instant Pot?
- Yes, the Instant Pot has ample space which allows you to double the recipe if needed, making it ideal for serving a larger group.
- Why is it important to sear the meat before pressure cooking?
- Searing the meat before pressure cooking enhances the flavor of the stew, giving it a richer and more robust taste compared to simply adding the meat without browning it first.
- What is the recommended method for releasing pressure from the Instant Pot in this recipe?
- For optimal results, use the natural release method to allow the pressure to drop. This helps maintain the texture of the meat and ensures the stew has the best possible flavor.
- How can I achieve a thicker stew consistency?
- To thicken the stew, add the cornstarch and water mixture while the stew is still hot. If you prefer an even thicker consistency, you can double the cornstarch mixture.
Tips
- Before adding the beef to the Instant Pot, make sure to sear it well. This step enhances the flavor of the stew significantly by caramelizing the meat and creating a richer taste profile.
- Allow the pressure to naturally release for about 10 minutes after cooking. This method is recommended for recipes with hot liquids, as it results in better texture and tenderness in the meat.
- Add the cornstarch and water mixture while the stew is still hot. This ensures effective thickening. If you prefer an even thicker stew, consider doubling the cornstarch mixture.
Equipment
- Instant Pot (Pressure Cooker) – Essential for following this recipe as it is designed specifically for an Instant Pot.
- Saute Function Compatible Utensil – Such as a wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula, for stirring and scraping.
- Small Mixing Bowl – For mixing cornstarch and cold water.
- Kitchen Scale (optional) – If you need precise measurements for ingredients.
