Instant Pot Beef Stew Hearty and Simple Recipe

Are you ready for a warm and hearty meal? My Instant Pot Beef Stew recipe is simple, quick, and oh-so-delicious. With tender beef, fresh veggies, and savory seasonings, this dish warms you up from the inside out. I’ll show you how easy it is to whip up this crowd-pleaser in your Instant Pot. Let’s dive into the ingredients and get cooking!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

– 1 large onion, chopped

– 3 cloves garlic, minced

– 4 medium carrots, sliced

– 3 medium potatoes, chopped into bite-sized pieces

The main ingredients bring flavor and texture to the stew. Beef chuck gives a rich taste. Olive oil helps brown the beef, adding depth. Onions and garlic provide a savory base. Carrots and potatoes add sweetness and heartiness.

Seasonings and Other Additions

– 3 cups beef broth

– 1 tablespoon tomato paste

– 1 teaspoon dried thyme

– 1 teaspoon dried rosemary

– 2 bay leaves

– Salt and pepper to taste

The seasonings elevate the dish. Beef broth adds moisture and flavor. Tomato paste gives a hint of acidity. Thyme and rosemary bring warmth. Bay leaves add a herbal note. Salt and pepper balance the flavors.

Optional Ingredients

– 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

– 2 tablespoons water (optional, for cornstarch slurry)

If you want a thicker stew, use cornstarch. Mix it with water to create a slurry. This will help achieve the perfect consistency.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Steps

– Sautéing the beef

First, set your Instant Pot to Sauté mode. Add two tablespoons of olive oil. Once the oil gets hot, add two pounds of beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes. Brown the beef in batches. This step adds flavor. After browning, remove the beef and set it aside.

– Sautéing onions and garlic

In the remaining fat, add one large chopped onion and three minced garlic cloves. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onions turn translucent. This softens the onions and releases their sweetness for a great base flavor.

Combining Ingredients

– Adding seasonings and broth

Next, stir in one tablespoon of tomato paste, one teaspoon each of dried thyme and dried rosemary, and salt and pepper to taste. Cook this mixture for one minute. This blending of flavors will enhance the stew. After that, pour in three cups of beef broth.

– Returning beef to the pot

Now, return the seared beef to the pot. Add four sliced carrots and three chopped potatoes. Stir everything together until well mixed. Lastly, add two bay leaves to the mixture for depth.

Cooking in the Instant Pot

– Setting pressure cooking time

Secure the lid on the Instant Pot. Set it to Manual or Pressure Cook for 35 minutes. This high-pressure cooking will tenderize the beef and meld the flavors.

– Natural pressure release process

Once the cooking time is up, allow for a natural pressure release for about 10-15 minutes. This step lets the stew settle and keeps it juicy. After that, manually release any remaining pressure. If you want a thicker stew, mix two tablespoons of cornstarch with two tablespoons of water. Stir this slurry into the stew and set the Instant Pot to Sauté mode again for 5-10 minutes. This will thicken your stew nicely. Don’t forget to remove the bay leaves before serving!

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the Recipe

To get tender beef in your stew, always choose beef chuck. Cut it into 1-inch cubes for even cooking. Sear the beef first to lock in the juices. This step makes a big difference in texture. For flavor, don’t skip the fresh herbs. Dried thyme and rosemary add depth. A splash of tomato paste boosts umami.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One mistake is overcrowding the pot. Sear the beef in batches to brown it well. If you skip this step, the meat will steam instead of sear. This leads to tough beef. Another mistake is not seasoning enough. Taste your stew before serving. Adjust the salt and pepper to your liking.

Serving Suggestions

For a nice presentation, serve the stew in deep bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley for color. A sprinkle of black pepper adds a nice touch. Pair your stew with crusty bread. It’s perfect for dipping and adds texture. You can also serve it with a simple salad for balance.

Variations

Ingredient Substitutions

You can switch the beef with other meats. Try using pork or chicken instead. Both options will give a different taste but still be delicious. If you want more veggies, add peas or celery. These veggies cook well and add extra color and nutrition.

Dietary Adaptations

For a gluten-free stew, use gluten-free broth. Check labels on all ingredients to ensure they are safe for you. If you want a low-carb option, skip the potatoes. Instead, use turnips or cauliflower. These choices will keep the stew hearty without the extra carbs.

Flavor Variations

You can boost the flavor by adding spices. Try paprika or cumin for a warm taste. If you love a richer flavor, add red wine or Worcestershire sauce. Both will deepen the stew’s taste and make it even more satisfying. Adjust the seasoning to your liking and enjoy the new flavors!

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

To keep your beef stew fresh, cool it first. Then, store it in an airtight container. Glass containers work best, as they do not stain and seal well. The stew will last for up to three days in the fridge. Always label your containers with the date. This helps you track how long it’s been stored.

Freezing Instructions

Freezing beef stew is easy. Pour the cooled stew into freezer-safe bags or containers. Leave some space at the top, as it will expand. Seal the bags tightly and label them. Storing the stew this way can keep it fresh for up to three months. To thaw, place it in the fridge overnight or use the microwave.

Reheating Guidelines

For reheating, I recommend using the stovetop. This method warms the stew evenly and keeps it tasty. Just pour it into a pot and heat it over medium-low heat. Stir often to prevent sticking. If you need it quick, the microwave works too. Place it in a microwave-safe bowl, cover it, and heat in short bursts. Stir in between to ensure it heats through.

FAQs

How long can I store beef stew in the refrigerator?

You can store beef stew in the fridge for up to four days. Make sure to keep it in an airtight container. This helps keep it fresh and safe to eat. If you need more time, consider freezing it.

Can I make Instant Pot beef stew without beef broth?

Yes, you can. Use water or vegetable broth instead. You can also try red wine or a mix of both. These options add flavor and keep the stew rich. Just remember that the taste may change slightly.

What can I use to thicken the stew if I don’t have cornstarch?

If you don’t have cornstarch, use flour instead. Mix it with water to create a slurry. You can also mash some of the potatoes in the stew for thickness. Another option is to use arrowroot powder. Each thickener will change the stew’s texture a bit.

You learned how to make a great beef stew in the Instant Pot. We covered the main ingredients, cooking steps, and helpful tips. I shared ways to store and reheat your stew, plus easy variations. Remember to sauté your beef and veggies well for the best flavor. Avoid overcrowding your pot to keep the stew tender. With these tips, you’ll create a warm, tasty dish every time. Enjoy your cooking journe