Cozy Instant Pot Beef Stew

$To make my cozy Instant Pot beef stew, I use simple, fresh ingredients. Each component adds its own flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need: - Beef and vegetables: - 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes - 4 medium carrots, sliced into rounds - 3 medium potatoes, diced into 1-inch pieces - 1 large onion, finely chopped - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1 cup frozen peas - Broth and seasonings: - 4 cups beef broth - 2 tablespoons tomato paste - 2 teaspoons dried thyme - 1 teaspoon dried rosemary - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste - Optional thickening: - 2 tablespoons cornstarch - 2 tablespoons olive oil The beef chuck gives a rich flavor and tender texture. I love using carrots and potatoes for sweetness and heartiness. The onions and garlic add depth to the dish. Don't forget the herbs and spices; they bring warmth and aroma. If you want a thicker stew, you can use cornstarch. The olive oil helps in browning the beef, which adds a nice crust. Enjoy gathering these ingredients for a warm meal! {{ingredient_image_2}} Start by setting your Instant Pot to the 'Sauté' function. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and let it heat until it shimmers. Cut 2 lbs of beef chuck into 1-inch cubes. Add the beef in batches. Avoid crowding the pot. Brown each side for about 4-5 minutes. This step is key. It locks in flavor and gives your stew a rich taste. Once browned, transfer the beef to a plate and set it aside. Without wiping the pot, toss in 1 large chopped onion. Sauté it until it turns translucent, which takes about 3-4 minutes. Next, add 3 minced garlic cloves. Stir frequently for another minute. This helps release the garlic's lovely aroma. The onions and garlic add depth to your stew. Now, return the browned beef to the pot. Toss in 4 sliced carrots and 3 diced potatoes. Add 2 teaspoons of dried thyme, 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary, and 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste. Make sure everything is well coated. This blend of flavors creates a solid base for your stew. Carefully pour in 4 cups of beef broth. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to scrape the bottom of the pot. This releases any browned bits that cling to the pot. These bits add extra flavor and help prevent a burn notice during cooking. Secure the Instant Pot lid and set the pressure valve to Sealing. Select 'Manual' or 'Pressure Cook' on high pressure. Set the timer for 35 minutes. This pressure cooking method makes the beef tender and the flavors meld beautifully. When the cooking time is up, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes. After that, switch the valve to Venting to release any remaining pressure. Open the lid carefully. Stir in 1 cup of frozen peas for a pop of color and sweetness. If you want a thicker stew, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with a small amount of cold water. Stir this slurry into the stew. Switch the Instant Pot back to 'Sauté' and let it simmer for a few more minutes until it thickens to your liking. To make your beef stew great, start by browning the meat. This step adds rich flavor. Brown the beef in batches, so it sears well. When the beef is nicely browned, set it aside. Next, sauté the onions and garlic. This helps build a strong base for your stew. Use fresh garlic for the best taste. Choose high-quality beef broth for a deep flavor. A good broth makes a big difference. Look for low-sodium options to control salt levels. Always check the label for natural ingredients. When serving your stew, crusty bread is a perfect match. It’s great for dipping and adds a nice crunch. A slice of sourdough or a baguette works well. Garnish your stew with fresh parsley. This adds color and a fresh taste. Just sprinkle some on top before serving. It’s a simple way to brighten up your dish. Setting the table can make your meal feel special. Use warm colors and nice dishes. Add cloth napkins for a cozy touch. Soft lighting helps create a warm vibe. To enhance the dining experience, play soft music. This sets a calm mood. Enjoying your meal with loved ones makes it even better. A warm drink, like tea or mulled cider, can add to the comfort. Pro Tips Brown the Beef Well: Ensure that you brown the beef cubes in batches to achieve a nice crust, which adds depth of flavor to the stew. Use Fresh Herbs: For an extra layer of flavor, consider using fresh thyme and rosemary instead of dried, as they can enhance the aroma and taste of the stew. Don’t Skip the Scraping: After adding the broth, make sure to scrape the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits, which are packed with flavor and prevent burning. Adjust Thickness to Taste: If you prefer a thicker stew, use the cornstarch slurry method, but remember to let it simmer for a few minutes for the best results. {{image_4}} You can change up the beef in your stew. Try using brisket or round. These cuts work well and can add different flavors. For veggies, you can use sweet potatoes, parsnips, or even squash. Seasonal vegetables add freshness and color to your dish. If you need a gluten-free option, check your beef broth. Some broth has gluten, so read the label. You can also use coconut flour or almond flour to thicken the stew instead of cornstarch. This keeps it low-carb and still tasty. To boost flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine. It gives depth and richness to the stew. You can also try different herbs like oregano or bay leaves for a nice twist. If you like heat, add chili powder or a dash of hot sauce. This will make your stew warm and exciting! To store your beef stew, allow it to cool first. Place the stew in airtight containers. This keeps the stew fresh and safe. In the fridge, beef stew lasts about 3 to 4 days. Make sure to label the container with the date. This way, you know when to eat it. Freezing beef stew is a smart way to save it for later. First, allow the stew to cool completely. Then, pour it into freezer-safe containers or bags. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Beef stew can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you are ready to eat, thaw the stew in the fridge overnight. For reheating, use the stove or microwave. Stir well to keep the texture smooth and flavors rich. Preparing beef stew in advance is great for busy days. You can make a big batch and portion it out. Store each portion in individual containers. This makes it easy to grab a meal when you are in a rush. You can also pair the stew with side dishes like bread or salad. This way, you have a full meal ready to enjoy. Yes, you can. To cook on the stovetop, first brown the beef in a large pot. Use medium heat and add olive oil. After browning, remove the beef and sauté the onions and garlic. Add the rest of the ingredients, including the broth. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and let it cook for about 1.5 to 2 hours. Stir occasionally. This method gives you a nice, rich flavor as well. You can thicken beef stew without cornstarch. One method is to mash some of the potatoes against the pot's side. This releases starch and thickens the stew naturally. Another option is to simmer the stew uncovered for a while to reduce the liquid. You can also add pureed vegetables, like carrots or beans, for extra body. Beef stew pairs well with many sides. Here are some great options: - Crusty bread for dipping - Mashed potatoes for added creaminess - Rice or noodles for a hearty meal - A fresh green salad to balance the dish Beef stew lasts about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Store it in airtight containers. Signs of spoilage include off smells, changes in color, or mold. If you notice any, it's best to discard the stew. You can use frozen beef, but adjust the cooking time. When using frozen beef, add a few extra minutes to the pressure cooking time. Always make sure to brown the beef first, even if it's frozen. This adds flavor and depth to your stew. To sum it up, we explored how to make a delicious beef stew. We covered key ingredients, step-by-step cooking instructions, and tips to enhance flavor. You learned about ingredient swaps, dietary options, and storage advice to keep your stew fresh. Remember, cooking is about enjoyment and creativity. Use this guide to make your stew your own. Happy cooking!$

Cozy Instant Pot Beef Stew

A hearty and comforting beef stew made in the Instant Pot, perfect for cold days.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 35

Total Time 1

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 6

Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients

2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
4 medium carrots, sliced into rounds
3 medium potatoes, diced into 1-inch pieces
1 large onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups beef broth
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 teaspoons dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
to taste salt and freshly ground black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup frozen peas
2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
to taste fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Begin by setting the Instant Pot to the 'Sauté' function and adding the olive oil. Allow the oil to heat until shimmering. In batches, add the beef cubes, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Brown the beef on all sides for about 4-5 minutes per batch. Once browned, transfer the beef to a plate and set aside.
Without wiping out the pot, add the chopped onion. Sauté until they turn translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Incorporate the minced garlic and continue cooking for an additional minute, stirring frequently to release its fragrance.
Return the browned beef to the pot. Add in the sliced carrots, diced potatoes, dried thyme, dried rosemary, smoked paprika, and season generously with salt and pepper. Mix in the tomato paste, ensuring that all the ingredients are well coated and distributed evenly.
Carefully pour in the beef broth. Using a wooden spoon or spatula, scrape the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits, which add flavor and prevent a burn notice.
Secure the Instant Pot lid and ensure the pressure valve is set to Sealing. Select 'Manual' or 'Pressure Cook' on high pressure and set the timer for 35 minutes.
After the cooking cycle completes, allow the pressure to naturally release for 10 minutes. Then, carefully switch the pressure valve to Venting to release any remaining pressure quickly.
Open the lid and stir in the frozen peas. For a thicker stew, make a cornstarch slurry by mixing cornstarch with a small amount of cold water in a separate bowl. Stir the slurry into the stew and switch the Instant Pot back to 'Sauté'. Let it simmer for a few more minutes until the stew reaches your desired thickness.
Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Ladle the steaming stew into bowls, and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor.

Notes

Serve with crusty bread for dipping and garnish with fresh parsley.

Keyword beef stew, comfort food, hearty meal, Instant Pot