Beef Stew Pressure Cooker Recipe: The Easiest Way To Make Tender, Flavorful Stew

Savory, comforting, and effortlessly delicious, beef stew is a culinary classic that warms the soul. In this guide, we will embark on a step-by-step journey to create an unforgettable beef stew using the magic of a pressure cooker.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery sticks, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1/2 cup dry red wine (optional)
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup water
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried rosemary
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Brown the Beef: Heat the olive oil in the pressure cooker. Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper and brown them in batches to avoid overcrowding. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.

2. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and sauté until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.

3. Deglaze the Pot: Pour in the tomato paste and cook for a minute, stirring constantly. Add the red wine (if using) and let it simmer until reduced by half.

4. Add the Liquids: Return the beef to the pot and add the beef broth, water, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf.

5. Pressure Cook: Close the lid and set the pressure cooker to high pressure for 30 minutes.

6. Release Pressure: Once the cooking time is complete, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release the remaining pressure.

7. Thicken the Stew: Remove the lid and bring the stew to a simmer. If desired, thicken the stew with a slurry made from cornstarch and water.

8. Serve: Ladle the beef stew into bowls and serve hot with crusty bread or mashed potatoes.

Tips for a Perfect Beef Stew

• Choose the Right Beef: Chuck roast is a flavorful and tender cut that is perfect for stews.
• Brown the Beef: Browning the beef adds depth of flavor and helps to create a rich sauce.
• Use a Variety of Vegetables: Add your favorite vegetables to the stew for a colorful and nutritious dish.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pot: Brown the beef in batches to avoid overcrowding and ensure even cooking.
• Deglaze the Pot: Deglazing the pot with red wine or broth helps to release the flavorful brown bits from the bottom.
• Season to Taste: Add salt and pepper to taste and adjust the seasonings as needed.
• Serve Hot: Beef stew is best served hot and fresh, accompanied by warm bread or mashed potatoes.

Variations

• Red Wine Beef Stew: Add 1/2 cup of dry red wine to the stew for a rich and flavorful twist.
• Vegetable Beef Stew: Omit the beef and add extra vegetables, such as potatoes, peas, and green beans.
• Spicy Beef Stew: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder for a spicy kick.
• Slow Cooker Beef Stew: Transfer the ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

FAQs

Q: What is the best way to cut the beef for stew?
A: Cut the beef into 1-inch cubes for even cooking.

Q: Can I use frozen beef for this recipe?
A: Yes, but make sure to thaw the beef completely before cooking.

Q: How long will the beef stew keep in the refrigerator?
A: Beef stew can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Q: Can I freeze beef stew?
A: Yes, beef stew can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Q: What can I serve with beef stew?
A: Beef stew is traditionally served with crusty bread or mashed potatoes.