There’s something undeniably cozy about the scent of a warm, hearty Instant Pot Beef Stew wafting through your home. Picture this: tender chunks of beef swimming in a savory broth, surrounded by colorful veggies that practically dance with flavor. It’s like a warm hug from grandma on a chilly holiday evening, or maybe the culinary equivalent of snuggling under your favorite blanket while watching holiday movies.
Now, let me take you down memory lane. I remember the first time I made this stew—there I was, an eager culinary novice, flinging ingredients into my Instant Pot like confetti at a parade. The result? A delicious concoction that not only filled my belly but also brought my family together around the dinner table, sharing stories and laughter. Trust me; you’ll want this delightful dish to make its appearance at your next holiday feast or cozy family gathering!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Instant Pot Beef Stew is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy holiday schedules.
- Packed with rich flavors and tender meat, each bite will leave you craving more.
- The vibrant colors of the vegetables make it visually appealing and festive on any table.
- Enjoy this dish as a comforting weeknight dinner or a showstopper for special occasions.
Ingredients for Instant Pot Beef Stew (Holiday Style)
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Beef Chuck Roast: Look for well-marbled cuts; they become tender and flavorful after cooking.
- Carrots: Fresh, bright orange carrots add sweetness and color to the stew.
- Potatoes: Use waxy potatoes for their creamy texture; they hold up well during cooking.
- Onions: Sweet yellow onions enhance the stew’s overall flavor profile.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves add a delightful aroma and depth of flavor.
- Beef Broth: Opt for low-sodium beef broth to control salt levels in your dish.
- Red Wine: A splash of red wine amplifies the richness; just be sure it’s one you’d drink!
- Thyme: Fresh thyme sprigs infuse the stew with an earthy essence that’s just heavenly.
- Bay Leaves: These aromatic leaves add depth and complexity to the overall flavor.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Instant Pot Beef Stew (Holiday Style)
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Sear the Meat
Start by turning on your Instant Pot and selecting the sauté function. Add a splash of olive oil and let it heat up. Season your beef chuck roast generously with salt and pepper before placing it into the pot. Sear each side until browned—about four minutes per side will do wonders for flavor.
Step 2: Add Aromatics
Remove the beef from the pot (don’t worry, we’ll get back to it). Toss in chopped onions and minced garlic into that glorious drippings left behind. Stir them around until they’re soft and fragrant—this is where magic starts happening!
Step 3: Deglaze with Wine
Pour in that delicious red wine like you’re Julia Child herself—go ahead and scrape any tasty bits stuck at the bottom of the pot. Let it simmer for about two minutes until reduced slightly; this adds even more depth to your stew.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Return the seared beef back into your pot along with diced carrots, cubed potatoes, beef broth, bay leaves, and thyme sprigs. Give everything a gentle stir as if you’re coaxing all those flavors together for one big happy family reunion.
Step 5: Pressure Cook
Seal your Instant Pot lid securely (make sure that little valve is set to sealing!) and select manual pressure cook mode for about thirty-five minutes. Breathe in deep; soon you’ll be rewarded with an aroma that could bring anyone running from miles away!
Step 6: Serve with Love
Once cooked, allow natural pressure release for about ten minutes before finishing off with quick release remaining steam. Remove bay leaves (they’ve done their job), scoop out generous portions onto plates or bowls, and if you’re feeling fancy—a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top never hurt anyone.
Enjoy every mouthful of this warm-hearted delight! With its rich flavors enveloping tender meat and hearty vegetables, every bite will transport you straight into holiday bliss!
You Must Know
- This Instant Pot Beef Stew (Holiday Style) is not just comfort food; it’s a warm hug in a bowl.
- Perfectly tender beef, rich gravy, and hearty veggies come together for a festive feast that’s quick and easy.
- Your holiday dinners will never be the same!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
First, sear the beef to lock in all that juicy goodness before tossing in your vegetables. While the stew cooks, prepare your side dishes so everything comes together seamlessly. Timing is key for a perfect meal.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the beef for chicken or use a mix of root vegetables based on what’s in your fridge. Add spices like paprika or thyme for an extra flavor kick that’ll impress your guests.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave until heated through, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Searing the meat is crucial; it builds flavor and texture that makes this dish unforgettable.
- Don’t overcrowd the pot when cooking; give each piece space to brown properly.
- Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving—your palate deserves it!
Cooking this dish reminds me of my first holiday dinner with friends. I was nervous but excited as they raved about how delicious my Instant Pot Beef Stew turned out! Nothing beats that feeling of sharing good food and laughter around the table.
FAQs:
What ingredients do I need for Instant Pot Beef Stew (Holiday Style)?
To make Instant Pot Beef Stew (Holiday Style), gather the essentials: 2 pounds of beef chuck, 4 cups of beef broth, 3 carrots, 3 potatoes, one onion, and two cloves of garlic. You will also need herbs like thyme and rosemary for added flavor, as well as salt and pepper to taste. Optional ingredients include peas or mushrooms for extra texture. These ingredients create a heartwarming dish perfect for holiday gatherings.
How long does it take to cook Instant Pot Beef Stew?
Cooking Instant Pot Beef Stew (Holiday Style) is quick and efficient. After sautéing the meat and vegetables, you set the pressure cooker for about 35 minutes on high pressure. However, remember to allow time for natural pressure release, which takes an additional 10-15 minutes. In total, you can expect the entire process to take around one hour from start to finish.
Can I freeze Instant Pot Beef Stew leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers of Instant Pot Beef Stew (Holiday Style). To ensure the best texture upon reheating, let the stew cool completely before transferring it into airtight containers. It can last in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
What can I serve with Instant Pot Beef Stew?
Instant Pot Beef Stew (Holiday Style) pairs wonderfully with various sides! Consider serving it with crusty bread or rolls to soak up the flavorful broth. A simple green salad adds freshness, while mashed potatoes elevate your meal further. For a festive touch, consider adding roasted vegetables or a holiday-inspired cranberry sauce on the side.
Conclusion for Instant Pot Beef Stew (Holiday Style):
In summary, Instant Pot Beef Stew (Holiday Style) is a delightful dish that combines tender beef and hearty vegetables in a rich broth. It’s quick to prepare thanks to the efficiency of the Instant Pot, making it ideal for busy holiday gatherings. With easy-to-find ingredients and versatile pairings, this stew is sure to become a favorite at your table. Enjoy its comforting flavors and share it with family and friends this season!
Instant Pot Beef Stew (Holiday Style)
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Pressure Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Warm up with this comforting Instant Pot Beef Stew, featuring tender beef and vibrant vegetables simmered in a savory broth. A perfect dish for cozy gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into chunks
- 4 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 3 carrots, chopped
- 3 medium waxy potatoes, cubed
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1 tsp dried)
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Sear the Meat: Turn on the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add olive oil and heat. Season beef with salt and pepper, then sear each side until browned (about 4 minutes per side). Remove and set aside.
- Add Aromatics: In the same pot, add onions and garlic. Sauté until soft and fragrant, about 3 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the seared beef to the pot along with carrots, potatoes, beef broth, thyme, bay leaves, and additional salt and pepper. Stir gently to combine.
- Pressure Cook: Secure the lid on your Instant Pot, ensuring the valve is set to sealing. Select manual pressure cook mode and set for 35 minutes. Allow natural pressure release for about 10 minutes before quick releasing any remaining steam.
- Serve: Remove bay leaves and serve hot in bowls or plates, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: For a lighter option, substitute beef with chicken or turkey. Feel free to add peas or mushrooms for extra texture. Adjust seasoning as needed before serving.
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