Instant Pot Beef Stew recipe

Nothing beats a warm, comforting bowl of beef stew, especially when it's loaded with tender beef, flavorful vegetables, and rich broth. But making a stew doesn't have to be a time-consuming process. With the help of an Instant Pot, you can have a delicious, homemade beef stew on the table in a fraction of the time it takes with traditional cooking methods. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to make the perfect Instant Pot Beef Stew. Follow the recipe below to create a stew that's both hearty and healthy, perfect for any weeknight dinner or family gathering. Be sure to read through all the tips and tricks to ensure the best results!

this Recipe

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What is Instant Pot Beef Stew?

Instant Pot Beef Stew is a one-pot meal made with chunks of beef, vegetables, and a rich broth, cooked quickly using the pressure cooking feature of the Instant Pot. Unlike traditional slow-cooked stews, which can take hours to prepare, the Instant Pot allows you to achieve tender meat and well-developed flavors in a fraction of the time. It’s the perfect solution for busy nights when you want to serve a wholesome, home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

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Ingredients List for Instant Pot Beef Stew

To make a delicious Instant Pot Beef Stew, you'll need the following ingredients. These will serve around 6-8 people, depending on portion size.

Essential Ingredients:

1. Beef Chuck Roast – 2 lbs, cut into 1-2 inch cubes
2. Potatoes – 4 medium-sized, peeled and cubed
3. Carrots – 3 large, peeled and sliced
4. Celery – 3 stalks, chopped
5. Onion – 1 large, chopped
6. Garlic – 4 cloves, minced
7. Beef Broth – 4 cups, preferably low-sodium
8. Tomato Paste – 2 tablespoons
9. Worcestershire Sauce – 2 tablespoons
10. Olive Oil – 2 tablespoons, for sautéing
11. Bay Leaves – 2
12. Thyme – 1 teaspoon, dried or 2-3 sprigs of fresh thyme
13. Paprika – 1 teaspoon
14. Salt and Pepper – to taste
15. Flour or Cornstarch – 2 tablespoons, for thickening (optional)

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Additional Ingredients for Extra Flavor:

For an extra depth of flavor and texture, consider adding some of the following ingredients to your stew:

1. Mushrooms – 1 cup, sliced
2. Parsnips – 1 large, peeled and diced
3. Green Peas – 1 cup, added at the end for freshness
4. Red Wine – ½ cup, added to the broth for a richer flavor
5. Balsamic Vinegar – 1 tablespoon, for a subtle acidity
6. Fresh Herbs – Parsley or rosemary for garnish

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Substitutions and Variations

One of the great things about Instant Pot Beef Stew is its flexibility. If you’re missing an ingredient or want to try something different, here are a few substitution and variation ideas:

• Beef Cuts: If you don't have beef chuck roast, you can use brisket, short ribs, or even stewing beef. Just make sure it's a cut that becomes tender with cooking.
• Vegetables: Swap out potatoes for sweet potatoes, butternut squash, or turnips for a slightly different flavor and texture. You can also omit certain vegetables or add others like green beans or bell peppers.
• Broth: If you’re out of beef broth, you can use vegetable or chicken broth, although the flavor will be slightly lighter.
• Gluten-Free Option: If you're avoiding gluten, use cornstarch or arrowroot powder instead of flour to thicken the stew.
• Vegan Option: Swap the beef for plant-based protein like seitan or tofu, and use vegetable broth to make a vegan stew. You can also increase the number of vegetables to make it a vegetable-based stew.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Let’s dive into the details of making the perfect Instant Pot Beef Stew. Each step is important to achieving that mouthwatering, melt-in-your-mouth texture and well-rounded flavor.

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How to Cook Instant Pot Beef Stew: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prep the Ingredients:
   Start by cutting your beef chuck into 1-2 inch cubes and season with salt and pepper. Dice your potatoes, carrots, celery, and onion, and set them aside. Mince the garlic and gather all your other ingredients.
2. Sear the Beef:
   Turn your Instant Pot on to the “Sauté” mode. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and wait until it heats up. Add the beef cubes in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Brown the beef on all sides, about 3-5 minutes per batch. This step helps to lock in the flavor. Once browned, remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
   Add the onions, carrots, and celery to the Instant Pot and sauté for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
4. Deglaze the Pot:
   Pour in a bit of beef broth or red wine and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. This step is crucial to prevent the Instant Pot’s “burn” warning from going off during pressure cooking.
5. Add Remaining Ingredients:
   Return the beef to the pot. Add the potatoes, remaining beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, bay leaves, thyme, paprika, and any additional herbs or spices you’re using. Stir everything to combine.
6. Pressure Cook the Stew:
   Close the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to “Sealing.” Select the “Pressure Cook” or “Manual” setting and cook on high pressure for 35 minutes. Once the cooking time is up, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes before carefully turning the valve to “Venting” to release any remaining pressure.
7. Thicken the Stew (Optional):
   If you prefer a thicker stew, mix 2 tablespoons of flour or cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Switch the Instant Pot back to the “Sauté” mode and stir in the slurry. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the stew has thickened to your desired consistency.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcrowding the Pot: When searing the beef, be sure not to overcrowd the Instant Pot. This can cause the beef to steam instead of brown, leading to less flavorful meat.
• Skipping the Sear: Don’t skip the searing step. It adds an extra layer of flavor that will make your stew taste richer.
• Not Deglazing the Pot: Always deglaze the pot after sautéing the vegetables and meat. This helps prevent burnt bits from sticking to the bottom and triggering the burn warning during pressure cooking.
• Rushing the Pressure Release: Allow the pressure to release naturally for at least 10 minutes. If you do a quick release, the meat may not be as tender.

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Serving and Presentation Tips

How to Serve Instant Pot Beef Stew

• Serve the stew piping hot, ladled into deep bowls to capture all the delicious broth and tender vegetables.
• Pair it with crusty bread, like a French baguette, to soak up the broth, or serve it over mashed potatoes, rice, or even egg noodles for an extra hearty meal.
• A light side salad or steamed green beans can add a refreshing contrast to the rich stew.

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Presentation Ideas for Instant Pot Beef Stew

Presentation might not be the first thing that comes to mind with a stew, but a few simple touches can make your meal feel restaurant-worthy:

• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of chopped parsley or thyme on top adds a pop of color and freshness.
• Serve in Rustic Bowls: Opt for rustic, ceramic bowls or deep dishes for a cozy, homey vibe.
• Crusty Bread on the Side: Place a slice of warm, buttered bread on the edge of the bowl for added appeal.

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Instant Pot Beef Stew Recipe Tips

• Batch Cooking: This stew stores well in the fridge and freezer. Make a large batch and freeze individual portions for an easy meal on busy nights.
• Reheating: To reheat, place it in a saucepan on low heat until warmed through. Add a little water or broth if the stew has thickened too much.
• Adjusting Seasoning: After pressure cooking, taste the stew and adjust salt and pepper if needed. Flavors can mellow during cooking, so don’t hesitate to add more seasoning at the end.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this stew in a slow cooker instead of an Instant Pot?
   Yes, you can make this stew in a slow cooker. Simply follow the same steps but slow-cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours.
2. Can I use frozen beef in the Instant Pot?
   Yes, you can use frozen beef. Skip the searing step and add about 10 minutes to the pressure cooking time.
3. How long can I store leftover stew?
   Leftover stew can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
4. What if I don’t have Worcestershire sauce?
   You can substitute it with soy sauce or balsamic vinegar, though the flavor profile will be slightly different.
5. Can I make this stew dairy-free and gluten-free?
   Yes! Simply omit the flour and Worcestershire sauce, and check that your broth is gluten-free.

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Conclusion

With this easy-to-follow guide, you'll be able to whip up a satisfying Instant Pot Beef Stew in no time. It's the perfect recipe for when you're craving something hearty, flavorful, and nutritious. The Instant Pot makes the process quick and simple without sacrificing any of the deliciousness that comes with a slow-cooked stew. So gather your ingredients, fire up your Instant Pot, and enjoy the wonderful aroma of homemade beef stew wafting through your kitchen!

Don't forget to share this recipe with family and friends—after all, nothing brings people together like a hearty meal!

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