Instant Pot Corned Beef Recipe

Craving a tender and flavorful corned beef dish that's quick and easy to prepare? This Instant Pot Corned Beef recipe is just what you need! Using the pressure-cooking power of the Instant Pot, you can have perfectly cooked corned beef in a fraction of the time it normally takes. Follow this recipe for a delicious, hearty meal that's sure to impress your family and friends.

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What is Instant Pot Corned Beef?

Instant Pot Corned Beef is a simplified version of the traditional corned beef dish, cooked using an electric pressure cooker. Corned beef is typically brisket cured in a salt brine, and cooking it in the Instant Pot significantly reduces the time required while maintaining all the flavors and tenderness. The result is a juicy, flavorful corned beef that's perfect for any meal.

Ingredients List for Instant Pot Corned Beef

To make this delicious corned beef, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 3-4 pounds corned beef brisket (with spice packet)
• 1 large onion, quartered
• 4 cloves garlic, peeled and smashed
• 3 cups beef broth or water
• 1 cup dark beer (optional, for added flavor)
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 pound baby carrots
• 1 pound small red potatoes, halved
• 1 small head of cabbage, cut into wedges

Ingredients List for Instant Pot Corned Beef (Continued)

For additional flavor, you can also include:

• 1 tablespoon mustard seeds
• 1 teaspoon whole cloves
• 1 teaspoon coriander seeds

These optional ingredients will enhance the flavor of your corned beef.

Substitutions and Variations

This recipe is flexible and can be adjusted to suit your preferences. Here are some substitutions and variations you can try:

• Broth: Use chicken broth or vegetable broth if you prefer a different flavor profile.
• Beer: Substitute dark beer with apple juice or omit it entirely if you prefer not to use alcohol.
• Vegetables: Add or substitute vegetables such as turnips, parsnips, or sweet potatoes.
• Spices: Adjust the spices to your taste, or use a pre-made pickling spice mix for convenience.

These variations allow you to customize the dish to your liking.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by gathering and prepping all your ingredients. Quarter the onion, peel and smash the garlic cloves, halve the potatoes, and cut the cabbage into wedges.

Step 2: Rinse the Corned Beef

Rinse the corned beef brisket under cold water to remove excess salt from the curing process. Pat it dry with paper towels.

Step 3: Set Up the Instant Pot

Place the trivet in the bottom of the Instant Pot. Add the onion, garlic, beef broth (or water), beer (if using), apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, black peppercorns, bay leaves, and any additional spices.

Step 4: Cook the Corned Beef

Place the rinsed corned beef brisket on top of the trivet. Sprinkle the contents of the spice packet over the beef. Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and ensure the valve is set to the sealing position. Select the Manual/Pressure Cook setting and set the timer for 90 minutes.

Step 5: Natural Release

Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 15 minutes. After 15 minutes, carefully turn the valve to the venting position to release any remaining pressure.

Step 6: Add Vegetables

Open the Instant Pot and remove the corned beef to a plate. Cover it with aluminum foil to keep it warm. Add the carrots, potatoes, and cabbage wedges to the cooking liquid in the pot. Secure the lid again and set the timer for an additional 5 minutes on Manual/Pressure Cook.

Step 7: Quick Release

When the cooking time is complete, perform a quick release by turning the valve to the venting position. Carefully open the lid and check that the vegetables are tender.

Step 8: Serve

Slice the corned beef against the grain and serve it with the cooked vegetables. Spoon some of the cooking liquid over the meat and vegetables for added flavor.

How to Cook Instant Pot Corned Beef: A Step-by-Step Guide

Cooking corned beef in the Instant Pot is straightforward if you follow these steps:

1. Prepare Ingredients: Quarter the onion, smash garlic, halve potatoes, and cut cabbage.
2. Rinse Corned Beef: Rinse and pat dry the corned beef brisket.
3. Set Up Instant Pot: Place trivet and add liquids, onion, garlic, and spices.
4. Cook Corned Beef: Place beef on trivet, sprinkle spice packet, and cook for 90 minutes.
5. Natural Release: Allow pressure to release naturally for 15 minutes.
6. Add Vegetables: Remove beef, add vegetables, and cook for 5 minutes.
7. Quick Release: Release pressure quickly and check vegetables.
8. Serve: Slice beef and serve with vegetables, spooning cooking liquid over.

Following these steps ensures a delicious and perfectly cooked corned beef dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common mistakes to ensure your corned beef turns out perfectly:

• Skipping the Rinse: Rinsing the corned beef removes excess salt and prevents the dish from being too salty.
• Overcooking Vegetables: Adding the vegetables at the start will result in mushy vegetables. Add them after the beef is cooked.
• Not Allowing Natural Release: Natural release helps keep the meat tender by letting the pressure drop gradually.
• Slicing With the Grain: Always slice the corned beef against the grain for the most tender results.

By avoiding these mistakes, you’ll achieve a perfect Instant Pot corned beef every time.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation can make your dish more appealing. Here are some tips:

• Garnish: Sprinkle fresh parsley or chives over the corned beef for a pop of color.
• Accompaniments: Serve with mustard, horseradish sauce, or a side of Irish soda bread.
• Plating: Arrange the sliced beef on a platter with the vegetables around it for a beautiful presentation.

How to Serve Instant Pot Corned Beef

Serve this dish hot, straight from the Instant Pot. Here’s how to make it extra special:

• Plating: Slice the beef and arrange it on a serving platter with the vegetables.
• Sides: Pair with crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad.
• Toppings: Offer toppings like mustard, horseradish sauce, and fresh herbs for guests to customize their servings.

Presentation Ideas for Instant Pot Corned Beef

Make your dish stand out with these presentation ideas:

• Color Contrast: Use bright, fresh herbs and colorful vegetables for visual interest.
• Serving Dish: Present in a beautiful, large serving dish or platter.
• Layering: Ensure the beef is sliced against the grain and vegetables are evenly distributed.

Instant Pot Corned Beef Recipe Tips

• Prep Ahead: Prepare and chop vegetables ahead of time for quicker assembly.
• Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove.
• Freezing: Corned beef freezes well. Slice it and store in freezer bags for up to 3 months.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook the corned beef ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before serving.

Can I freeze Instant Pot Corned Beef?

Absolutely! Slice the cooked corned beef and store it in freezer bags for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat gently.

How long do leftovers last?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove for the best taste.

Can I use a different type of meat?

While this recipe is specifically for corned beef brisket, you can use similar cooking methods for other cuts of beef. Adjust the cooking time as needed.

What can I serve with this dish?

This dish pairs well with crusty bread, mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, or a simple green salad.

Conclusion

Instant Pot Corned Beef is a quick, delicious, and tender dish that's perfect for any occasion. With its rich flavors and easy preparation, it's sure to become a family favorite. Try this recipe today and enjoy a delightful meal that everyone will love. Don’t forget to experiment with substitutions and variations to make it your own!

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