Are you craving a mouthwatering, hearty meal that will warm your soul and impress your family? Look no further than Sandy's Instant Pot Beef Stew - a game-changing recipe that transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary culinary experience! In just under an hour, you'll create a rich, tender, and absolutely delicious stew that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you're a busy home cook or a weekend chef, this foolproof recipe is about to become your new go-to comfort food.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 35 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into cubes
- 4 carrots, sliced
- 3 potatoes, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Cut the beef chuck into 1-inch cubes, slice the carrots, dice the potatoes, and chop the onion. This will help streamline the cooking process.
- Set your Instant Pot to the 'Sauté' mode and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Allow the oil to heat up for a minute.
- Once the oil is hot, add the cubed beef chuck to the pot. Season the beef with salt and pepper. Sauté the beef for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until it is browned on all sides.
- After browning the beef, add the chopped onion to the pot. Sauté for an additional 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Next, stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste and 1 teaspoon of thyme. Mix well to coat the beef and onion evenly with the tomato paste and thyme.
- Pour in 4 cups of beef broth, scraping the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon to deglaze and release any browned bits stuck to the bottom. This adds flavor to the stew.
- Add the sliced carrots and diced potatoes to the pot. Stir everything together to combine the ingredients well.
- Close the lid of the Instant Pot and ensure that the pressure valve is set to the 'Sealing' position. Select the 'Manual' or 'Pressure Cook' setting and set the cooking time for 35 minutes.
- Once the cooking time is complete, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for about 10 minutes, then carefully switch the pressure valve to 'Venting' to release any remaining steam.
- Open the lid of the Instant Pot and give the stew a good stir. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve the beef stew hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy your hearty meal!
Tips
- Choose the Right Cut: Use beef chuck roast for the most tender and flavorful results. Its marbling ensures the meat stays juicy and falls apart beautifully.
- Brown the Meat Properly: Take time to brown the beef cubes thoroughly. This step develops deep, rich flavors that are crucial to an amazing stew.
- Don't Rush the Pressure Release: Allow a natural pressure release for at least 10 minutes to help the meat become incredibly tender and let the flavors meld together.
- Customize Your Vegetables: Feel free to add other root vegetables like parsnips or turnips for extra depth and nutrition.
- Make Ahead Friendly: This stew tastes even better the next day, so don't hesitate to make it in advance and reheat for an easy meal.
- Thickening Option: If you prefer a thicker stew, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with cold water and stir in after cooking to achieve your desired consistency.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 90mg
