Description
A hearty and flavorful Instant Pot Beef Stew with tender beef chunks, vegetables, and a rich tomato-based broth, perfect for a comforting meal ready in under an hour.
Ingredients
Scale
Beef Stew Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef chuck roast (cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large onion (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 4 medium carrots (cut into 1-inch pieces)
- 3 medium potatoes (peeled and cubed)
- 2 celery stalks (chopped)
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
Instructions
- Season the beef: Generously season the beef cubes with salt and pepper to enhance flavor before cooking.
- Preheat the Instant Pot: Set the Instant Pot to Sauté mode and add the vegetable oil, heating it until shimmering.
- Brown the beef: In batches, brown the beef cubes in the oil, ensuring a good sear for depth of flavor. Remove browned beef to a plate.
- Sauté aromatics: Add diced onion and minced garlic to the pot, cooking until softened and fragrant.
- Add ingredients to pot: Return the beef to the pot and add carrots, potatoes, celery, beef broth, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves.
- Pressure cook: Secure the lid, set the valve to sealing, and cook on High Pressure for 20 minutes to tenderize the beef and meld flavors.
- Release pressure: Allow a natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure to safely open the Instant Pot.
- Add peas: Stir in the frozen peas to add color and sweetness to the stew.
- Thicken stew (optional): If desired, mix cornstarch with 1/4 cup cold water and stir into the stew. Use Sauté mode to simmer until the stew thickens.
- Adjust seasoning and serve: Taste the stew and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot for a comforting meal.
Notes
- For an even richer flavor, brown the beef in batches without overcrowding the pot.
- If you prefer a thicker stew, the cornstarch slurry step is recommended but optional.
- Feel free to substitute frozen mixed vegetables if peas are unavailable.
- Use fresh herbs if available; just adjust quantities accordingly.
- Leftovers store well and taste even better the next day.
