Instant Pot Corned Beef Recipe
Imagine transforming your classic corned beef into a quick, flavorful dinner using your Instant Pot. You start with a 3 to 4-pound brisket, layering it with aromatic spices, onions, and garlic. The pressure cooker does most of the work, ensuring tender results in just 90 minutes. But what about the vegetables that make this dish complete? Carrots, potatoes, and cabbage await their turn. Are you curious about the steps to achieve this effortlessly delicious meal? There's more to explore about how this method enhances the rich flavors you love while saving you precious time in the kitchen.
Recipe
Corned beef is a beloved dish that combines the rich flavors of beef brisket with aromatic spices, making it a favorite for many. Traditionally associated with St. Patrick's Day, it has become a year-round staple for those who enjoy a hearty meal.
With the Instant Pot, you can effortlessly prepare corned beef, transforming it into a tender and flavorful dish. The pressure cooking method not only speeds up the cooking process but also guarantees that the beef is infused with spices and remains juicy.
This Instant Pot corned beef recipe requires minimal ingredients and preparation, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings. By using the Instant Pot, you can achieve the same delicious results in less time than traditional methods. The combination of brisket, fresh vegetables, and savory spices creates a comforting and satisfying meal that can be served as a main course or used for sandwiches.
Follow the steps below to make your own mouthwatering corned beef.
Ingredients:
- 3 to 4 pounds corned beef brisket with spice packet
- 4 cups water
- 1 large onion, quartered
- 3 cloves garlic, smashed
- 4 medium carrots, peeled and cut into large chunks
- 1 pound baby potatoes
- 1 small head of cabbage, cut into wedges
To prepare the corned beef, place the brisket on the trivet inside the Instant Pot. Add the water, onion, and garlic around the brisket. Sprinkle the contents of the spice packet over the beef.
Secure the lid of the Instant Pot and set the valve to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 90 minutes. After the cooking time is complete, let the pressure release naturally for about 15 minutes before manually releasing any remaining pressure.
Remove the brisket and cover it with foil to keep warm. Next, add the carrots, potatoes, and cabbage to the pot and cook on high pressure for 4 minutes. Perform a quick release to release the pressure, then serve the vegetables alongside the sliced corned beef.
For the best results, slice the corned beef against the grain to promote tenderness. If you prefer your vegetables to have a firmer texture, consider reducing the cooking time slightly.
The flavorful liquid left in the Instant Pot can be used as a broth for soups or stews, adding an extra layer of flavor to other dishes. Corned beef also stores well; keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days, providing an excellent option for meal prep during the week.
Cooking Steps
To get started with your Instant Pot corned beef, position the brisket on the trivet like a king on its throne, ready for its flavor transformation.
Next, toss in the onion and garlic, and don't forget to sprinkle the spice packet over the brisket—it's like adding a crown of flavor!
Secure the lid, seal the valve, and let the Instant Pot work its magic for 90 minutes while you kick back and dream of the feast to come.
Step 1. Position Brisket on Trivet
Start by carefully placing the brisket on the trivet inside your Instant Pot. Make sure it's snug and secure but not crammed in like you're trying to fit into last year's jeans.
The trivet lifts the brisket above the liquid, helping it cook evenly and absorb all those wonderful flavors. Use your hands or tongs to gently adjust it if needed, ensuring it sits flat.
This will help the brisket cook evenly, becoming tender and juicy. Remember, the trivet isn't just a fancy accessory; it's like the stage for your brisket to perform its culinary magic.
With everything in place, you're setting the scene for a delightful meal that's as easy as pie—and just as satisfying!
Step 2. Add Onion and Garlic
With the brisket perfectly positioned on the trivet, it's time to enhance those flavors by adding onion and garlic.
Grab a large onion, quarter it like you're about to tell it a secret, and toss it into the pot.
Next, take three cloves of garlic and give them a good smash—no need for precision here, you're not auditioning for a cooking show.
Toss them in with the onion. These aromatic gems will seep into the brisket as it cooks, making every bite a savory delight.
Don't worry about arranging them neatly; the Instant Pot doesn't care about presentation.
Just guarantee they're mingling with the water, ready to party with the brisket and bring out that bold, mouth-watering flavor.
Step 3. Sprinkle Spice Packet Over Brisket
Once the onion and garlic are nestled in the Instant Pot, grab the spice packet that accompanies your corned beef brisket. It's like a little magic potion, ready to transform your meal into something extraordinary.
Tear it open—carefully, now, no spice confetti parties—and sprinkle the mix evenly over the brisket. Imagine you're dusting fairy dust on a culinary adventure. This step guarantees the meat soaks up those wonderful flavors.
As you sprinkle, think of it as a mini workout for your wrist, a small price for big taste! Make certain every nook and cranny gets a little spice love.
These spices will marry with the meat as it cooks, creating a flavor-packed delight that's sure to impress everyone at the table.
Step 4. Secure Lid and Seal Valve
Securing the Instant Pot lid and sealing the valve are essential steps in this cooking adventure.
First, align the lid's arrow with the base's indicator, then twist clockwise until you hear a satisfying click. It's like locking in all that flavor magic!
Next, don't forget to set the valve to the "Sealing" position — not "Venting." Think of it as keeping a secret; we don't want any steam sneaking out! This guarantees your corned beef cooks to tender perfection.
If you're unsure, give the lid a gentle wiggle; it shouldn't budge. Remember, the Instant Pot's like a pressure-loving vault, and you've got the key.
Once secure, let the Instant Pot work its wonders while you relax or prepare sides.
Step 5. Cook Brisket for 90 Minutes
You've locked the lid and set the valve, so let's get cooking!
With your Instant Pot ready, it's time to transform that brisket into a tender, flavorful masterpiece. Set the Instant Pot to high pressure and program it for 90 glorious minutes.
This might feel like forever, but trust me, the results are worth the wait. While the pot works its magic, you can kick back and relax, maybe even brag to your friends about your soon-to-be culinary triumph.
Final Thoughts
A steaming plate of corned beef, tender and aromatic, is a tribute to the efficiency of the Instant Pot.
You've tackled a classic dish with modern ease, and the results are nothing short of delicious.
The Instant Pot not only saves you time but also elevates the flavors, making your meal both hearty and flavorful.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use a Frozen Corned Beef Brisket in the Instant Pot?
Yes, you can use a frozen corned beef brisket in the Instant Pot. Just increase the cooking time by about 20-30 minutes. Verify it's cooked through by checking the internal temperature reaches at least 145°F.
How Do I Adjust the Cooking Time for a Smaller Brisket?
For a smaller brisket, reduce the cooking time by 10-15 minutes. Keep an eye on tenderness. If needed, you can always add more time, but it's harder to fix overcooked meat. Enjoy experimenting with your Instant Pot!
What Can I Substitute for the Spice Packet if It's Missing?
If you're missing the spice packet, don't worry! You can substitute it with a mix of whole mustard seeds, coriander seeds, peppercorns, bay leaves, and crushed red pepper. Adjust quantities to your taste for a flavorful result.
Can I Use Chicken Broth Instead of Water for Added Flavor?
You can definitely use chicken broth instead of water for added flavor. It enhances the taste and richness of the dish. Just pour the broth into the Instant Pot with the other ingredients and cook as usual.
How Do I Prevent the Cabbage From Becoming Too Mushy?
Don't overcook the cabbage. Add it towards the end of the cooking process, and reduce the pressure cooking time to just 2-3 minutes. This way, you'll keep the cabbage firm and prevent it from becoming mushy.
