Instant Pot Beef Stew

$Here’s what you need to make Instant Pot Beef Stew: - 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes - 3 tablespoons olive oil - 1 large onion, diced - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 4 medium carrots, sliced - 3 medium potatoes, diced - 2 cups beef broth - 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce - 1 teaspoon dried thyme - 1 teaspoon dried rosemary - 1 bay leaf - 1-2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional for thickening) - Salt and pepper to taste Each ingredient plays a key role in making this stew rich and tasty. The beef chuck gives it that hearty flavor, while the vegetables add both texture and nutrition. The broth and Worcestershire sauce bring depth. Using fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary makes the aroma amazing. You can adjust salt and pepper to fit your taste. If you want a thicker stew, cornstarch helps create that perfect texture. Gather these ingredients before you start cooking, and you will be on your way to a delicious meal! Start by setting your Instant Pot to the Sauté mode. Pour in three tablespoons of olive oil. Let it heat up until it shimmers. Now, add the beef cubes in batches. Do not overcrowd the pot. Brown each side for about 3-4 minutes. This step adds rich flavor. Once browned, remove the beef and set it aside. In the same pot, add one diced large onion. Sauté until it turns translucent, about 3-4 minutes. This will soften the onion and release its sweet taste. Next, stir in three minced garlic cloves. Cook for another 30 seconds to bring out the garlic's aroma. Now, add four sliced carrots and three diced potatoes. Mix everything together well. Pour in two cups of beef broth. Add one tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce for depth. Be sure to scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. This helps prevent burning. Return the seared beef to the pot. Now, add one teaspoon of dried thyme, one teaspoon of dried rosemary, a bay leaf, and some salt and pepper. Stir everything to combine. Close the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to sealing. Cook on Manual high pressure for 30 minutes. This will tenderize the beef and blend all the flavors. When the timer goes off, let the pot release pressure naturally for about 10 minutes. After that, switch to quick release for any remaining pressure. If you want a thicker stew, mix one or two tablespoons of cornstarch with cold water. Stir this into the stew. Use the Sauté function to simmer gently until it thickens. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed before serving. Browning the meat is key. It adds a rich taste and depth. When you sear the beef, it locks in juices. This step makes your stew much better. Using fresh herbs can enhance the flavor more than dried ones. Fresh thyme and rosemary bring a bright taste. Dried herbs are fine if fresh is not an option. Just remember, use less dried than fresh. A good rule is to use one-third the amount. To thicken your stew, cornstarch works well. Mix 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch with cold water. This makes a slurry. Stir it in during the last few minutes of cooking. This method gives a smooth texture. If you want alternatives, try mashed potatoes or pureed beans. Both can thicken the stew without cornstarch. They also add extra nutrition and flavor. Garnish your stew with fresh chopped parsley. It adds color and freshness. You can also add a dollop of sour cream for creaminess. For side dishes, crusty bread is a great choice. It soaks up the stew's rich broth. A simple green salad can also add freshness. Consider serving roasted vegetables for more flavor and texture. {{image_2}} You can swap beef for chicken or pork. Chicken thighs work well, as they stay moist. For pork, choose a shoulder or tenderloin. Both options add unique flavors. Adjust cooking time based on the meat. Chicken usually cooks faster than beef. Use the same method and ingredients for a delicious twist. Feel free to boost your stew with more veggies. Peas and green beans are great choices. They add color and nutrition. You can also try corn or celery. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces. Add them to the pot with the carrots and potatoes. This way, you make the stew even heartier. Spices can change the flavor profile of your stew. Try adding paprika for a smoky taste. A dash of cayenne brings heat. Fresh or dried herbs like basil or oregano can also enhance the dish. Mix and match spices to find your favorite blend. Don’t be afraid to experiment; cooking should be fun! After enjoying your beef stew, let it cool down. Place it in an airtight container. This keeps the stew fresh. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. For best taste, eat it within two days. To freeze your beef stew, use freezer-safe containers. Leave some space at the top, as the stew expands when frozen. Label the container with the date. You can freeze it for up to three months. When you want to eat it, just thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat your stew on the stove for best results. Use a medium heat and stir often. If using a microwave, heat it in short intervals. Add a splash of beef broth if it seems thick. This keeps the flavor strong. Always check the stew's temperature before serving. It should reach 165°F to ensure it's safe to eat. Instant Pot beef stew lasts about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Store it in an airtight container. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. When you want to eat it, just thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. Yes, you can cook beef stew on the stove or in a slow cooker. If using the stove, brown the beef in a pot. Then, add the veggies and broth. Simmer for about 2 to 3 hours until tender. In a slow cooker, add everything and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours. Both methods yield a tasty stew! Beef stew pairs well with many sides. Here are some tasty options: - Crusty bread for dipping - Mashed potatoes for extra comfort - Rice for a filling meal - A fresh salad for brightness Feel free to mix and match! This blog post guided you through making a tasty Instant Pot beef stew. You now know the key ingredients, steps, and helpful tips for perfect results. Experiment with different meats and veggies to find your favorite blend. Proper storage and reheating will keep your stew delicious for days. Enjoy your cooking journey and the warm flavors of comfort food!$

Warm up your dinner routine with this savory Instant Pot beef stew recipe! This hearty dish combines tender beef, fresh vegetables, and rich flavors, all cooked in a fraction of the time. With just a few simple steps and ingredients, you can enjoy a comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Click through to discover the full recipe and impress your family with this delicious comfort food!

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Ingredients

2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes

3 tablespoons olive oil

1 large onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

4 medium carrots, sliced

3 medium potatoes, diced

2 cups beef broth

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon dried rosemary

1 bay leaf

1-2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Set your Instant Pot to the Sauté mode and heat the olive oil.

Once hot, add the beef cubes in batches, searing them on all sides until browned. Remove the beef and set aside.

In the same pot, add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.

Add the carrots and potatoes to the pot, mixing them in with the onions and garlic.

Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, scraping up any browned bits on the bottom of the pot.

Return the seared beef to the pot. Add the dried thyme, dried rosemary, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Stir well.

Close the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to sealing. Cook on Manual high pressure for 30 minutes.

Once done, allow the pot to release pressure naturally for about 10 minutes, then switch to quick release for any remaining pressure.

If you prefer a thicker stew, mix 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch with an equal amount of cold water to create a slurry. Stir it into the stew and use the Sauté function to simmer gently until thickened.

Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary before serving.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes | Servings: 6

- Presentation Tips: Serve hot in deep bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color. For added texture, include crusty bread on the side for dipping.