How to Make Instant Pot Beef Stew with Potatoes & Carrots

Delicious Instant Pot beef stew with potatoes and carrots

Are you craving a hearty, comforting meal that's easy to prepare and packed with flavor? Look no further than this Instant Pot beef stew recipe with potatoes and carrots. Imagine the rich aroma of tender beef, the warmth of hearty vegetables, and the comforting embrace of a savory broth. This isn't just a meal; it's an experience that will transport you to a cozy cabin on a chilly winter evening. Let's dive into the magic of the Instant Pot and create a beef stew that will become a family favorite.

Why Choose the Instant Pot for Beef Stew?

The Instant Pot is a game-changer in the kitchen. It combines the functions of a pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker, and more into one versatile appliance. For beef stew, the Instant Pot excels by tenderizing the beef quickly and infusing the flavors of the vegetables and spices into the broth. The result? A delicious, hearty stew in a fraction of the time it would take on the stovetop or in a traditional slow cooker.

Ingredients You'll Need

Before we get started, let's gather our ingredients. You'll need:

2 lbs beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tbsp olive oil
1 large onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
2 cups beef broth
1 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried rosemary
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
2 tbsp water (if using cornstarch)

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Instant Pot Beef Stew

Preparing the Beef

Brown the Beef: Start by selecting the "Sauté" function on your Instant Pot. Add the olive oil and let it heat up. Once hot, add the beef stew meat in batches to avoid overcrowding the pot. Brown the beef on all sides for about 5 minutes per batch. Remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.

Adding the Aromatics

Sauté the Onions and Garlic: In the same pot, add the diced onions and minced garlic. Cook until the onions are translucent, about 3-5 minutes. The aroma of sautéed onions and garlic will fill your kitchen, setting the stage for the rich flavors to come.

Incorporating the Vegetables

Add Carrots and Potatoes: Next, add the sliced carrots and cubed potatoes to the pot. Stir to combine with the onions and garlic. The vibrant colors of the vegetables will add a visual appeal to your stew.

Building the Broth

Pour in the Beef Broth: Add the beef broth to the pot. Stir in the tomato paste, dried thyme, dried rosemary, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. The combination of these ingredients will create a flavorful base for your stew.

Pressure Cooking

Pressure Cook: Return the browned beef to the pot. Stir everything together to ensure the beef and vegetables are well coated in the broth. Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and set the valve to "Sealing." Select the "Manual" or "Pressure Cook" function and set the time for 30 minutes at high pressure.

Thickening the Stew

Release the Pressure: Once the cooking time is up, allow the pressure to release naturally for about 10 minutes, then manually release any remaining pressure. Carefully remove the lid and give the stew a good stir. If you prefer a thicker stew, mix the cornstarch with water in a small bowl and stir it into the pot. Select the "Sauté" function again and let the stew simmer for a few minutes until it thickens to your desired consistency.

Serving Your Instant Pot Beef Stew

Your Instant Pot beef stew with potatoes and carrots is now ready to be enjoyed. Ladle the stew into bowls and serve it with crusty bread or a side salad. The tender beef and hearty vegetables will warm your soul and satisfy your hunger.

Tips for the Perfect Beef Stew

Brown the Beef: Browning the beef adds a depth of flavor that can't be achieved by simply cooking it in the broth. Don't skip this step!
Fresh Herbs: While dried herbs are convenient, fresh herbs can elevate the flavor of your stew. Consider using fresh thyme and rosemary if you have them on hand.
Customize Your Stew: Feel free to add other vegetables like celery, peas, or mushrooms to make the stew your own.

Conclusion

Creating a delicious Instant Pot beef stew with potatoes and carrots is easier than you might think. With the right ingredients and a little bit of time, you can enjoy a hearty, comforting meal that will become a staple in your kitchen. The Instant Pot makes the process quick and efficient, allowing you to savor the flavors without spending hours in the kitchen. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your Instant Pot and get cooking!

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe? Yes, you can use other cuts of beef like chuck or round. Just make sure to cut them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
How can I make this beef stew gluten-free? This recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure that your beef broth and any additional seasonings are gluten-free.
Can I freeze leftover beef stew? Absolutely! Let the stew cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What can I serve with beef stew? Beef stew pairs well with crusty bread, dinner rolls, or a side salad. You can also serve it with mashed potatoes for an extra hearty meal.
How do I adjust the thickness of the stew? If you prefer a thicker stew, you can add a cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) and simmer until it reaches your desired consistency. For a thinner stew, simply add more beef broth.

With these tips and tricks, you're well on your way to mastering the art of Instant Pot beef stew. Enjoy the process and savor the delicious results!