Name: Easy Instant Pot Beef & Vegetable Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound beef stew meat, cubed; 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, potatoes, peas); 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups beef broth; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons olive oil

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Easy Instant Pot Beef & Vegetable Stew is a heartwarming dish that brings comfort and nourishment to your table. With tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and savory broth, this recipe offers a delightful mix of flavors and textures. It’s the perfect meal for busy weeknights or for when you’re looking to impress family and friends with minimal effort.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 350
Protein: 30 grams
Carbohydrates: 35 grams
Fat: 12 grams
Fiber: 5 grams
Sugar: 4 grams
Sodium: 800 mg

Why Make This Easy Instant Pot Beef & Vegetable Stew

This Easy Instant Pot Beef & Vegetable Stew is a game changer for your kitchen routine. Not only does it come together in about 50 minutes, but the Instant Pot makes it incredibly easy to achieve tender beef and perfectly cooked vegetables. The rich flavors develop beautifully as the ingredients mix together, resulting in a stew that smells just as delightful as it tastes. This recipe is also versatile, allowing you to use whatever vegetables you have on hand.

How to Make Easy Instant Pot Beef & Vegetable Stew

Ingredients:

1 pound beef stew meat, cubed
2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, potatoes, peas)
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups beef broth
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil

Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

Set the Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ mode. Add olive oil and brown the beef cubes until they have a nice sear, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 2: Mixing

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-5 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Step 3: Cooking

Stir in the tomato paste, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper, allowing the flavors to meld. Then, add in the mixed vegetables and beef broth. Close the Instant Pot lid tightly.

Step 4: Finishing

Set the Instant Pot to ‘Manual’ mode and cook on high pressure for 35 minutes. Once cooking is complete, let the pressure naturally release for 10 minutes. After that, carefully quick release any remaining pressure. Open the lid and serve hot.

How to Serve Easy Instant Pot Beef & Vegetable Stew

Serve this stew warm in bowls, optionally garnished with fresh parsley. It’s perfect on its own or with a side of crusty bread for dipping. You can also pair it with a light salad for a well-rounded meal.

How to Store Easy Instant Pot Beef & Vegetable Stew

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the stew for up to 3 months. Just reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.

Expert Tips for Perfect Easy Instant Pot Beef & Vegetable Stew

Make sure to brown the beef properly for maximum flavor.
Experiment with different vegetables, like bell peppers or green beans, depending on what you have available.
If you prefer a thicker stew, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water and stir it in after cooking, then sauté on ‘Sauté’ mode for a few more minutes.

Delicious Variations

Swap out beef with chicken for a lighter protein option.
Add a splash of red wine for a deeper flavor profile.
Try using different herbs such as rosemary or oregano for a unique twist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, you can use frozen vegetables. Just don’t thaw them beforehand; add them directly to the pot during cooking.
Is it necessary to brown the beef?
Browning the beef adds great flavor and depth to the stew, so it’s highly recommended.
Can I make this stew in advance?
Absolutely! The flavors often improve after a day in the fridge, making it a great make-ahead meal.
What can I serve with the stew?
This stew pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, rice, or a fresh salad.
Is this stew gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is gluten-free as long as you ensure your broth and other ingredients don’t contain gluten.

Conclusion

With its ease and rich flavor, Easy Instant Pot Beef & Vegetable Stew is sure to become a beloved dish in your home. Perfect for those busy days when you need something hearty and delicious without hours spent in the kitchen, this recipe offers a warm hug in a bowl. Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!