Introduction
Corned beef is a beloved dish, especially around St. Patrick’s Day, but it’s also a comforting meal that can be enjoyed year-round. Traditionally, corned beef is slow-cooked for hours, but with the help of the Instant Pot, you can achieve tender, flavorful results in a fraction of the time.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about making Instant Pot corned beef, from the essential ingredients to step-by-step instructions. Whether you’re new to using an Instant Pot or an experienced cook, this recipe will help you master the art of cooking corned beef in an Instant Pot, ensuring it turns out perfectly every time.
Ingredients for Instant Pot Corned Beef
The key to a delicious Instant Pot corned beef lies in the quality of the ingredients you choose. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what you’ll need and the role each ingredient plays in the recipe.
1. Corned Beef Brisket (3-4 pounds)
Role: The corned beef brisket is the star of the dish. It’s a beef brisket that has been cured in a salt brine, often with spices like coriander, mustard seeds, and peppercorns. The curing process infuses the beef with its distinctive flavor.
Substitutions: If you can’t find corned beef brisket, you can make your own by curing a beef brisket with pickling spices, salt, and sugar for several days. However, this requires advanced preparation.
2. Pickling Spice (1 tablespoon)
Role: Most store-bought corned beef briskets come with a packet of pickling spice, but if yours doesn’t, you can make your own or buy it separately. Pickling spice typically includes mustard seeds, bay leaves, coriander, and peppercorns, which add depth and complexity to the flavor of the beef.
Substitutions: You can create your own mix using common spices like mustard seeds, coriander, allspice, bay leaves, and peppercorns if you don’t have a pre-made blend.
3. Water or Beef Broth (4 cups)
Role: The liquid is essential for cooking the corned beef in the Instant Pot. Water is the most common choice, but beef broth can add extra flavor to the dish.
Substitutions: Vegetable broth can be used as a substitute if you’re looking for a different flavor profile, or you can combine water with a bit of apple cider vinegar for added tang.
4. Garlic Cloves (4-6, smashed)
Role: Garlic adds a subtle, aromatic flavor to the corned beef, complementing the pickling spices.
Substitutions: If you don’t have fresh garlic, you can use 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, though fresh garlic will provide a more robust flavor.
5. Onion (1 large, quartered)
Role: Onion adds sweetness and depth to the broth, enhancing the overall flavor of the corned beef.
Substitutions: Shallots or leeks can be used as substitutes, offering a slightly different but equally delicious flavor.
6. Carrots (4 large, peeled and cut into large pieces)
Role: Carrots add a touch of sweetness and are a traditional vegetable pairing with corned beef. They also soak up the flavors of the broth, making them a delicious side.
Substitutions: Parsnips can be used in place of carrots for a similar sweetness with a slightly different texture.
7. Potatoes (6 medium, halved)
Role: Potatoes absorb the flavors of the cooking liquid and serve as a hearty side dish to the corned beef.
Substitutions: You can use sweet potatoes or Yukon Gold potatoes for a slightly different flavor and texture.
8. Cabbage (1 small head, cut into wedges)
Role: Cabbage is a classic vegetable served with corned beef. When cooked in the broth, it becomes tender and flavorful.
Substitutions: Napa cabbage or savoy cabbage can be used if you prefer a milder flavor.
Ingredient Summary
The ingredients for Instant Pot corned beef are straightforward, but each one plays an important role in creating a dish that’s full of flavor and satisfying to eat. While substitutions are possible, sticking to the traditional ingredients will yield the most authentic and delicious results.
Step-by-Step Guide to Preparing Instant Pot Corned Beef
With your ingredients ready, it’s time to prepare your Instant Pot corned beef. Follow these steps to ensure your corned beef turns out tender, flavorful, and perfectly cooked.
Step 1: Prepare the Instant Pot
Start by setting up your Instant Pot. Place the trivet in the bottom of the pot, which will keep the corned beef elevated above the liquid and allow it to cook evenly.
Step 2: Add the Ingredients
Place the corned beef brisket on the trivet in the Instant Pot. Sprinkle the pickling spice over the brisket. Add the smashed garlic cloves and quartered onion around the brisket. Pour in the water or beef broth, ensuring the brisket is mostly submerged but not completely covered.
Step 3: Cook the Corned Beef
Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and set the valve to the sealing position. Select the “Pressure Cook” or “Manual” setting and adjust the time to 90 minutes. For a more tender brisket, you can cook it for up to 100 minutes.
Step 4: Natural Release
Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally. This usually takes about 15-20 minutes. The natural release process helps the meat stay tender and juicy.
Step 5: Add the Vegetables
After the pressure has released, carefully open the lid. Remove the corned beef and set it aside, covering it with foil to keep it warm. Add the carrots, potatoes, and cabbage wedges to the Instant Pot. Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for an additional 3-5 minutes.
Step 6: Quick Release
Perform a quick release of the pressure by carefully turning the valve to the venting position. Once the pressure has fully released, open the lid and check that the vegetables are tender.
Step 7: Slice and Serve
Slice the corned beef against the grain into thick slices. Serve it hot with the cooked vegetables on the side. Optionally, drizzle some of the cooking liquid over the meat and vegetables for added flavor.
Step 8: Enjoy
Your Instant Pot corned beef is now ready to enjoy. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or a comforting weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to please.
Tips and Tricks for Perfecting Instant Pot Corned Beef
Making Instant Pot corned beef is simple, but these tips and tricks can help you get the best results every time.
1. Choose the Right Cut
When selecting your corned beef brisket, look for one with a good balance of fat and meat. A well-marbled brisket will yield a more flavorful and tender result.
2. Don’t Rush the Natural Release
Allowing the pressure to release naturally after cooking is crucial for tender corned beef. This slow release of pressure prevents the meat from becoming tough.
3. Rest the Meat
After removing the corned beef from the Instant Pot, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, keeping it moist.
4. Slice Against the Grain
Always slice the corned beef against the grain. This means cutting perpendicular to the lines of muscle fibers, which will make the meat more tender and easier to chew.
5. Customize the Vegetables
Feel free to customize the vegetables to your liking. Add root vegetables like parsnips or turnips for added variety, or skip the cabbage if you prefer.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I cook the vegetables with the corned beef from the beginning?
It’s better to cook the vegetables separately after the corned beef is done. If cooked together from the beginning, the vegetables may become too soft and mushy.
2. Can I make this recipe without an Instant Pot?
Yes, you can cook corned beef using a slow cooker or on the stovetop. However, the cooking times will be much longer—around 7-8 hours in a slow cooker or 3-4 hours on the stovetop.
3. How can I store leftover corned beef?
Store leftover corned beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.
4. Can I use this recipe for corned beef sandwiches?
Absolutely! Leftover corned beef makes fantastic sandwiches. Slice it thinly and serve it on rye bread with mustard and pickles.
5. What if my corned beef is too salty?
If your corned beef is too salty, you can soak it in cold water for a few hours before cooking, changing the water once or twice. This will help draw out some of the excess salt.
Pairing Suggestions for Instant Pot Corned Beef
Instant Pot corned beef is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are some pairing suggestions to complete your meal:
1. Irish Soda Bread
Serve warm slices of Irish soda bread with butter alongside your corned beef. The bread’s slightly sweet flavor complements the savory meat.
2. Mustard and Horseradish Sauce
A tangy mustard or horseradish sauce adds a zesty kick to the rich flavors of corned beef. Serve it on the side for dipping or spreading.
3. Colcannon
Colcannon, a traditional Irish dish made from mashed potatoes and cabbage or kale, is a perfect side dish for corned beef. Its creamy texture pairs beautifully with the tender meat.
4. Roasted Root Vegetables
If you prefer a more robust side, roast a mix of root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes. Their caramelized flavors will enhance the taste of the corned beef.
5. Sauerkraut
For a tangy contrast, serve sauerkraut alongside your corned beef. The acidity of the sauerkraut cuts through the richness of the meat.
Conclusion
The Instant Pot corned beef recipe is a game-changer for anyone who loves this classic dish but doesn’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. The Instant Pot dramatically reduces cooking time while still delivering a tender, flavorful corned beef that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a holiday meal or a comforting family dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. By following the detailed instructions and tips provided in this guide, you can create a delicious corned beef meal that will impress everyone at the table.