There’s nothing quite like the aroma of a rich, savory stew wafting through your home, especially on a chilly holiday evening. Picture this: tender beef dancing in a sea of vibrant vegetables, infused with aromatic herbs and spices, all coming together to create a warm hug in a bowl. That’s what you get with Instant Pot Beef Stew (Holiday Style) – it’s like your grandma’s classic recipe but on turbo speed.
Now, let’s be real; when I think of beef stew, I remember my first attempt at cooking it during the holidays. I was young, ambitious, and had no clue that cooking beef could be as tricky as navigating through a mall parking lot during Black Friday sales. Spoiler alert: my kitchen looked like a beefy tornado hit it. But the taste? Oh boy! It was still worth it. This Instant Pot version will save you from that chaos while delivering all the cozy flavors you crave.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Instant Pot Beef Stew is incredibly easy to prepare while delivering bold flavors that will warm your heart.
- The vibrant colors of the vegetables make it visually appealing for holiday gatherings.
- You can adapt the ingredients based on what’s in your fridge, making it versatile for any occasion.
- Plus, it cooks in less than an hour, so you can spend more time with loved ones instead of slaving away in the kitchen.
Ingredients for Instant Pot Beef Stew (Holiday Style)
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Beef Chuck Roast: Cut into bite-sized pieces for tenderness; look for marbling for added flavor.
- Carrots: Use fresh and firm carrots; they add sweetness and color to the stew.
- Potatoes: Choose Yukon Gold or red potatoes; they hold their shape well during cooking.
- Onions: Yellow onions work best, providing a sweet base flavor as they caramelize.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is essential for depth; use more if you’re feeling adventurous!
For the Broth:
- Beef Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth to control salt levels; it enhances the meat’s flavor beautifully.
- Red Wine: A splash adds richness and complexity; choose one you’d enjoy drinking (no cooking wine here).
- Dried Thyme: A must-have herb for that earthy flavor; fresh thyme works too if you have it.
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: Sauté the Meat
Begin by setting your Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode. Once hot, add a drizzle of oil and brown the beef cubes until they’re golden on all sides. This step caramelizes the meat and boosts flavor – trust me!
Step 2: Add Aromatics
Toss in chopped onions and minced garlic with those beautiful browned beef cubes. Stir them around until fragrant – about two minutes should do it! Your kitchen will feel like a cozy restaurant.
Step 3: Deglaze the Pot
Pour in that glorious red wine, scraping up any tasty bits stuck to the bottom of the pot. This not only adds flavor but also prevents burning during pressure cooking.
Step 4: Load Up on Veggies
Now it’s time to add chopped carrots and potatoes along with beef broth and dried thyme. Give everything a gentle stir so those veggies mingle with the meat.
Step 5: Pressure Cook
Secure the lid on your Instant Pot and set it to cook on high pressure for about 35 minutes. If only life came together as easily as this stew!
Step 6: Release and Serve
Once done, allow a natural release for about ten minutes before switching to quick release for any remaining pressure. Ladle that steaming stew into bowls and enjoy!
Transfer to plates and garnish with fresh parsley if you’re feeling fancy.
With every comforting spoonful of this Instant Pot Beef Stew (Holiday Style), you’ll find yourself transported back to those nostalgic holiday memories – minus the kitchen disaster! Enjoy every moment spent savoring this hearty delight with family or friends around you!
You Must Know
- This Instant Pot Beef Stew (Holiday Style) is not just a meal; it’s a heartwarming hug in a bowl.
- With tender beef and rich flavors, it will leave your guests asking for seconds—and maybe even thirds!
- Perfect for busy holiday gatherings or cozy dinners.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the beef until it’s beautifully browned, then sauté the vegetables while you prepare your broth. Add everything to the Instant Pot, set it, and let the magic happen. This sequence ensures maximum flavor and tender meat without turning your kitchen into a disaster zone.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the potatoes for sweet potatoes or throw in some mushrooms for extra umami. You can even toss in a splash of red wine to elevate that flavor profile. Get creative; your stew should reflect your taste!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Instant Pot Beef Stew (Holiday Style) in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, simply warm it on low heat on the stove or use the microwave and enjoy that deliciousness all over again!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always pat the beef dry before searing to achieve that golden crust many strive for.
- Letting your beef rest after cooking enhances tenderness and flavor.
- A tablespoon of balsamic vinegar at the end brightens up all those rich flavors beautifully.
The first time I made this Instant Pot Beef Stew (Holiday Style), my friends gobbled it down faster than I could serve it. They insisted I start charging for my culinary skills—who knew my kitchen could be so popular?
FAQs
What ingredients do I need for Instant Pot Beef Stew (Holiday Style)?
To prepare Instant Pot Beef Stew (Holiday Style), gather essential ingredients like beef chuck, carrots, potatoes, onions, garlic, beef broth, and herbs such as thyme and bay leaves. You can also include optional items like red wine or mushrooms for added flavor. Make sure to choose high-quality beef for the best texture and taste. Fresh vegetables enhance the stew’s aroma and nutrition. This combination of ingredients creates a hearty meal perfect for holiday gatherings.
How long does it take to cook Instant Pot Beef Stew (Holiday Style)?
Cooking Instant Pot Beef Stew (Holiday Style) is quick compared to traditional methods. The actual cooking time is around 35 minutes under pressure. However, you should account for the time it takes to sauté the vegetables and brown the meat beforehand, which may add an additional 15-20 minutes. Once cooking is complete, allow for a natural pressure release of about 10 minutes before manually releasing any remaining pressure. The total time from start to finish will be approximately one hour.
Can I make Instant Pot Beef Stew (Holiday Style) in advance?
Yes, you can prepare Instant Pot Beef Stew (Holiday Style) in advance! This dish actually benefits from sitting overnight as the flavors meld together beautifully. After cooking, let the stew cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze it for longer storage. When reheating, ensure it’s heated thoroughly on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving again.
What side dishes pair well with Instant Pot Beef Stew (Holiday Style)?
Instant Pot Beef Stew (Holiday Style) pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh garden salad. You can also serve it alongside buttery mashed potatoes or creamy polenta for a comforting meal. For a lighter option, consider steamed green beans or sautéed Brussels sprouts as refreshing side dishes. These pairings complement the richness of the stew while adding color and variety to your holiday table.
Conclusion for Instant Pot Beef Stew (Holiday Style)
In summary, Instant Pot Beef Stew (Holiday Style) offers a flavorful and convenient way to enjoy a classic dish during holiday gatherings. With its rich ingredients and simple preparation, this stew is sure to please family and friends alike. Remember that you can customize your recipe by adding different vegetables or spices according to your taste preferences. Enjoy this warm comfort food that brings everyone together during festive occasions!
Instant Pot Beef Stew (Holiday Style)
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Pressure Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Warm your heart this holiday season with a savory Instant Pot Beef Stew, featuring tender beef and vibrant vegetables, all ready in under an hour.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 medium carrots, chopped
- 2 cups Yukon Gold potatoes, diced
- 1 large yellow onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 1 tsp dried thyme
Instructions
- Sauté the Meat: Set your Instant Pot to 'Sauté' mode. Add a drizzle of oil and brown the beef cubes until golden on all sides for enhanced flavor.
- Add Aromatics: Stir in chopped onions and minced garlic with the browned beef. Cook for about two minutes until fragrant.
- Deglaze the Pot: Pour in the low-sodium beef broth, scraping up any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom of the pot to prevent burning during pressure cooking.
- Load Up on Veggies: Add chopped carrots and potatoes along with dried thyme. Stir gently to combine all ingredients.
- Pressure Cook: Secure the lid on your Instant Pot and set it to high pressure for 35 minutes.
- Release and Serve: Allow a natural release for about ten minutes before manually releasing any remaining pressure. Ladle into bowls and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: - Feel free to substitute Yukon Gold potatoes with sweet potatoes or add mushrooms for extra flavor. - Enhance flavor by adding a tablespoon of balsamic vinegar just before serving.
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