Nothing beats a warm, hearty bowl of beef stew on a chilly evening. This Easy Instant Pot Beef Stew is perfect for those who crave comfort food without the fuss. Packed with tender beef, flavorful broth, and wholesome vegetables, it’s a cozy dish that comes together in no time. Whether you’re short on time or just want a no-mess dinner option, this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen.
Steps
- Start by adding olive oil to the Instant Pot and activate the sauté mode. Once the oil is hot and sizzling, add the beef, and season it with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook the beef until it is browned on all sides.
- Pour in the beef broth and use a spoon to scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. This step enhances the flavor of the stew.
- Add Worcestershire sauce, garlic, onion, carrots, potatoes, and tomato sauce to the pot. Secure the lid and ensure the steam valve is closed.
- Set the Instant Pot to high pressure and cook the stew for 35 minutes. After cooking, allow the pressure to naturally release for 10 minutes, then perform a quick release for any remaining pressure.
- In a small bowl, combine cornstarch with cold water, mixing until smooth. Stir this mixture into the hot stew to thicken it to your desired consistency.
Ingredients
- Olive oil
- 1.5 pounds beef, cubed
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Italian seasoning, to taste
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 carrots, sliced
- 4 potatoes, cubed
- 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
- Can I double the Instant Pot Beef Stew recipe?
- Yes, you can easily double the recipe as there is ample room in the Instant Pot to accommodate a larger batch. This makes it great for serving more people or having leftovers.
- Why is it important to sear the meat before cooking the stew in the Instant Pot?
- Searing the meat enhances the flavor of the stew. This simple step helps to develop a deeper and more complex taste compared to just adding the meat directly without browning.
- What is the best way to release pressure from the Instant Pot for beef stew?
- It’s recommended to use the natural release method for beef stew. This ensures the meat and vegetables maintain their best texture and allows the boiling liquids to settle safely.
- How should I thicken the stew, and when should this be done?
- To thicken the stew, mix cornstarch with cold water and add it to the piping hot stew. This should be done while the stew is still hot to ensure it thickens properly. If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can double the cornstarch mixture.
- What are the nutritional values of the Instant Pot Beef Stew?
- The stew contains approximately 384 calories per serving, with 23g of carbohydrates, 42g of protein, and 12g of fat. Nutritional information should be considered an estimate, as it is automatically calculated.
Tips
- Always sear the beef first as it enhances the flavor of the stew, making it more delicious.
- Use the natural release method after cooking to achieve the best meat texture and to safely handle the hot liquids.
- Add the cornstarch and water mixture while the stew is still hot to ensure proper thickening. For a thicker stew, consider doubling the cornstarch mixture.
Equipment
- Instant Pot – A multi-functional electric pressure cooker used for cooking the beef stew.
- Sauté Function – While this is part of the Instant Pot, it’s essential for searing the meat, and not all pressure cookers have this feature.
