Looking to make a delicious and easy meal with your Instant Pot? Corned beef and cabbage is a traditional Irish dish that is perfect for St. Patrick’s Day or any other time you’re craving a hearty meal. And with an Instant Pot, you can have this flavorful dish on the table in no time!
First, let’s talk about what corned beef is. Corned beef is a salt-cured beef product that is commonly used in Irish and British cuisine. It gets its name from the large grains of salt, called “corns,” that are used to cure the meat. The brisket cut is the most popular choice for corned beef, and it is typically accompanied by vegetables like cabbage, potatoes, and carrots.
The Instant Pot is a game-changer for cooking corned beef and cabbage. It allows you to cook this traditionally slow-cooked dish in a fraction of the time, without sacrificing any flavor. The pressure cooking function of the Instant Pot tenderizes the meat and infuses it with all the delicious flavors of the spices. Plus, it keeps the vegetables perfectly cooked and not mushy.
Step-by-step guide to cook corned beef and cabbage in instant pot
Are you craving a delicious corned beef and cabbage meal? Look no further than your instant pot! With its quick cooking time and tenderizing abilities, the instant pot is the perfect tool for cooking this classic dish. Follow this easy step-by-step guide to create a mouthwatering meal for you and your family.
Here’s what you’ll need:
Ingredients: | Equipment: |
– 3 pounds of corned beef | – Instant pot |
– 1 head of cabbage, cut into wedges | – Trivet or steamer basket |
– 6 peeled carrots | – Tongs |
– 6 peeled potatoes, halved | – Cutting board |
– 1 chopped onion | – Knife |
– 3 cloves of minced garlic | – Measuring cups |
– 2 bay leaves | – Measuring spoons |
– 1 teaspoon of black peppercorns | |
– 4 cups of water |
Now let’s get started:
1. Place the corned beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, bay leaves, black peppercorns, and water into the instant pot.
2. Secure the lid of the instant pot and set the valve to the sealing position.
3. Select the “Pressure Cook” setting and set the timer for 90 minutes.
4. Once the timer goes off, allow the pressure to naturally release for 10 minutes. Then, carefully do a quick release to release any remaining pressure.
5. Using tongs, carefully remove the corned beef from the instant pot and set it aside to rest.
6. Add the cabbage wedges, carrots, and potatoes to the instant pot on top of the cooking liquid.
7. Place the trivet or steamer basket on top of the vegetables, then place the corned beef on the trivet.
8. Secure the lid of the instant pot and set the valve to the sealing position.
9. Select the “Pressure Cook” setting and set the timer for 5 minutes.
10. Once the timer goes off, carefully do a quick release to release the pressure.
11. Remove the corned beef and vegetables from the instant pot and transfer them to a serving platter.
12. Slice the corned beef against the grain and serve it alongside the cabbage, carrots, and potatoes.
13. Enjoy your perfectly cooked corned beef and cabbage!
Now you can impress your family and friends with this delicious instant pot recipe. Bon appétit!
Gather the ingredients
To cook corned beef and cabbage in an instant pot, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 pounds of corned beef brisket
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 4 cups of beef broth
- 1 head of cabbage, cut into wedges
- 8 small red potatoes, halved
- 4 carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
- 1 teaspoon of mustard seeds
- 1 teaspoon of black peppercorns
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
Make sure you have all these ingredients ready before starting the cooking process. Adjust the quantities according to your preferences and the number of servings needed.
Prepare the corned beef
To prepare the corned beef for cooking in the Instant Pot, follow these steps:
Ingredients:
- 3-4 pound corned beef brisket
- 1 tablespoon pickling spice
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cups water
Instructions:
- Remove the corned beef brisket from its packaging and rinse it under cold water.
- Place the corned beef in the Instant Pot and sprinkle the pickling spice, minced garlic, and diced onion on top.
- Add the water to the Instant Pot.
Meat Setting | Pressure | Time |
---|---|---|
Beef | High | 90 minutes |
Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then manually release any remaining pressure.
Prepare the cabbage
After the corned beef is finished cooking, remove it from the instant pot and set it aside to rest. Keep the cooking liquid in the pot.
While the corned beef is resting, prepare the cabbage. Start by removing the outer leaves of the cabbage and discarding them. Rinse the cabbage under cold water to remove any dirt or debris.
Next, cut the cabbage into wedges by cutting it in half and then into quarters. Remove the core from each wedge by making a diagonal cut. This will make the cabbage easier to eat and cook more evenly.
Once the cabbage is cut and cored, add it to the instant pot with the cooking liquid. Make sure the cabbage is submerged in the liquid as much as possible.
Close the instant pot lid and set the valve to the sealing position. Cook the cabbage on high pressure for 5 minutes.
After the cooking time is complete, do a quick release of the pressure by moving the valve to the venting position. Be careful of the steam that will escape.
Once the pressure has fully released, carefully open the instant pot lid. The cabbage should be tender and cooked through.
Remove the cabbage from the pot using a slotted spoon and transfer it to a serving dish. Serve the cooked cabbage alongside the corned beef for a delicious and traditional St. Patrick’s Day meal.
Cooking in the Instant Pot
The Instant Pot is a versatile kitchen appliance that can make your cooking experience easier and faster. Here are a few tips for cooking in the Instant Pot:
1. Read the manual: Before using your Instant Pot, make sure to read the manual and familiarize yourself with the different settings and functions. This will help you understand how to use the appliance properly and get the best results.
2. Use the correct amount of liquid: The Instant Pot requires a certain amount of liquid to build up pressure and cook the food. Make sure to follow the recipe instructions and use the recommended amount of liquid, whether it’s water, broth, or any other liquid specified.
3. Don’t overfill: To ensure proper cooking and avoid clogging the vent, never overfill the Instant Pot. Leave enough space for the food to expand and release steam during cooking.
4. Use the right cooking time: The Instant Pot has different cooking modes and preset timers. Make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the recipe you’re following. If you’re uncertain, it’s always better to start with a shorter cooking time and add more time if needed.
5. Use the sealing ring correctly: The Instant Pot comes with a sealing ring that helps create airtight conditions for cooking. Make sure the sealing ring is properly seated and clean to avoid any leaks or unwanted smells during cooking.
6. Quick release vs. natural release: The Instant Pot offers two methods to release pressure after cooking: quick release and natural release. Quick release means manually releasing the steam valve to quickly release pressure. Natural release means allowing the Instant Pot to depressurize naturally without intervention. Follow the recipe instructions to determine which method is recommended.
7. Experiment and have fun: The Instant Pot is a great appliance for experimenting with new recipes and flavors. Don’t be afraid to try new things and have fun while cooking in your Instant Pot. Remember, practice makes perfect!
By following these tips, you’ll be able to make the most out of your Instant Pot and enjoy delicious and hassle-free meals.
Serving and enjoying
Once the corned beef and cabbage is done cooking in the Instant Pot, it’s time to serve and enjoy this delicious dish. Here are some suggestions on how to serve and enjoy your corned beef and cabbage:
- Remove the corned beef from the Instant Pot and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Slice the corned beef against the grain into thin slices. This will make it more tender and easier to eat.
- Place the sliced corned beef on a serving platter or individual plates.
- Using a slotted spoon, remove the cabbage and potatoes from the Instant Pot and place them next to the corned beef.
- Drizzle some of the cooking liquid from the Instant Pot over the sliced corned beef, cabbage, and potatoes. This will add extra flavor and moisture.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or chopped green onions for added freshness and color.
- Serve the corned beef and cabbage hot, and enjoy!
This hearty and flavorful dish pairs well with a side of Irish soda bread or crusty bread rolls. It’s also delicious served with a dollop of mustard or horseradish sauce for an extra kick of flavor. Don’t forget to accompany your meal with a pint of your favorite beer or a glass of Guinness for a true Irish experience!
FAQ
What is corned beef?
Corned beef is a type of salt-cured beef product. It is made by curing beef with large grains of salt, known as corns of salt, and other spices. It is a popular dish, especially around St. Patrick’s Day.
How do I cook corned beef and cabbage in an instant pot?
To cook corned beef and cabbage in an instant pot, first, place the corned beef brisket in the instant pot along with the seasoning packet that usually comes with it. Add enough water to cover the brisket, then lock the instant pot lid in place and set it to high pressure for about 90 minutes. Once the cooking time is up, release the pressure manually and carefully remove the lid. Add the cabbage and any other vegetables you’d like, then cook for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender. Serve hot and enjoy!
Can I cook corned beef without an instant pot?
Yes, you can cook corned beef without an instant pot. One popular method is to boil it on the stovetop. Simply place the corned beef brisket in a large pot, cover it with water, and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 3 hours or until the meat is tender. You can also add vegetables like cabbage, carrots, and potatoes to the pot during the last hour of cooking. Another option is to slow cook it in a crockpot for about 8 hours on low heat.
What are some variations I can try when cooking corned beef and cabbage?
While the classic recipe calls for corned beef, cabbage, carrots, and potatoes, there are several variations you can try. You can add additional vegetables such as onions, turnips, or parsnips for added flavor. Some people also like to add a few cloves of garlic or bay leaves to the cooking liquid for extra taste. Another variation is to glaze the corned beef with a mixture of brown sugar and mustard before cooking to give it a sweet and tangy flavor. Feel free to experiment and find your own unique twist!