Hearty stew is a classic comfort food and we’ve got 21 EASY Stew Recipes in the Pressure Cooker you can make for dinner tonight.
Making stew in an Instant Pot is a game-changer. With an electric pressure cooker, you can whip up a delicious, hearty stew with tender beef or chicken in a fraction of the time it would traditionally take.
Let’s dive into the world of creating a savory, aromatic stew using this modern kitchen marvel.
Why Cook Stew in An Instant Pot?
Electric pressure cookers have revolutionized home cooking. These versatile appliances offer convenience without compromising on taste. Pressure cooking will give you the best beef stew (or ANY stew!) in a fraction of the time over a slow cooker version. You get a ton of flavor and the high pressure breaks down the connective tissure leaving you with tender chunks of beef with a quick cooking time. So put away your crock pot and let’s make some of our favorite instant pot recipes!
Tips for Making Stew In The Instant Pot
- Searing the Meat. Start by searing the meat in the pressure cooker to lock in those juices and intensify the flavors. A few minutes on each side should do the trick. Remove the meat and set it aside.
- Sauteing Aromatics and Vegetables. In the same cooker, use the saute button to sauté the onions, garlic, and other aromatics until fragrant. Add the vegetables (, allowing them to soften and release their flavors.
- Bringing It All Together. Return the meat to the pot. Add in the seasonings, beef broth (or beef stock, chicken broth or water), and any additional liquids (such as worcestershire sauce, soy sauce etc.) Remember, you don’t need as much liquid in a pressure cooker version as you would in a traditional stew – about half to three-fourths cup is typically sufficient. Use the liquid to deglaze the bottom of the pot and scrape up those delicious browned bits that are filled with flavor!
- Pressure Cooking. Secure the lid, set the pressure cooker to the appropriate setting with the vent in sealing position, and let it work its magic. Cook time vary depending on the type of meat and vegetables used, but typically, 20-30 minutes of high pressure does the trick.
- Natural Release and Enjoyment. Once the cooking cycle ends, allow for a natural pressure release for a few minutes before opening the lid. If you do a quick release right off the bat, you may get some splatter. The aroma that fills your kitchen will be tantalizing! Stir gently, adjust seasoning if needed, and serve piping hot.
What to Serve With Instant Pot Stew
Instant pot stew is great on it’s own, or served up with any of the following:
- Crusty bread or breadsticks
- corn bread
- green beans
- corn
- sweet potatoes
- garden salad
Electric pressure cookers have taken the stress out of creating wholesome meals. Their ability to infuse flavors quickly and efficiently makes them a go-to for busy weeknights or when you’re craving a comforting stew. Experiment with different ingredients, spices, and meats to create your signature stew. The ease and deliciousness of pressure cooker stews might just make them a staple in your kitchen repertoire.