Introduction
Indulge in the heartwarming delight of a classic beef stew, perfect for cozy evenings and family gatherings. This recipe utilizes an Instant Pot for quick and easy preparation, resulting in a tender and flavorful dish. With wholesome ingredients and a touch of baking for added depth, this stew will become a beloved staple in your kitchen.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 2 lbs. beef chuck roast, fat trimmed, cut into 1–2-inch chunks
– 1 medium onion, sliced thinly
– 2 stalks celery, sliced diagonally in thick pieces
– 6 carrots, sliced diagonally in thick pieces
– 2 tablespoons small tapioca pearls
– 1/2 cup tomato juice
– 2 teaspoons salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 35 minutes (plus natural pressure release)
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour
Yield: Serves 4-6 people
This beef stew recipe offers not only delicious flavor but also the comfort of a warm, homemade meal. The small tapioca pearls work effortlessly as a thickening agent, while the final baking step elevates the stew’s richness. Enjoy this savory dish with crusty bread or over a bed of mashed potatoes for a complete and satisfying meal.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Ingredients
Trim the fat from the beef chuck roast and cut it into 1–2-inch chunks. Slice the onion thinly, and diagonally slice the celery and carrots into thick pieces.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
Place all prepared ingredients, including the beef, onion, celery, carrots, tapioca pearls, tomato juice, salt, and sugar, into the Instant Pot.
Step 3: Set Cooking Program
Select the stew/meat setting on the Instant Pot, which is approximately 35 minutes on high pressure.
Step 4: Pressure Release
Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for about 10 minutes. Afterward, carefully manually release any remaining pressure.
Step 5: Transfer and Bake (Optional)
Transfer the stew to an oven-safe dish. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the stew uncovered for 10–20 minutes, or until the top is caramelized and the gravy has thickened, enhancing flavor and texture.
Notes
Tapioca Pearls as Thickening Agent
The small tapioca pearls in the recipe act as a thickening agent for the stew, helping to achieve the desired consistency.
Optional Oven Finish
Finishing the stew in the oven is optional, but it is recommended as it adds depth of flavor and improves the overall texture of the dish.
Cook techniques
Pressure Cooking
Using the Instant Pot to pressure cook the beef chuck roast helps to tenderize the meat quickly while infusing flavors from the vegetables and seasonings.
Natural Pressure Release
Allowing the pressure to release naturally for about 10 minutes helps retain moisture in the stew, resulting in a more flavorful and tender dish.
Baking for Texture
Transferring the stew to an oven-safe dish and baking it helps caramelize the top and thicken the gravy, enhancing the overall flavor and texture.
Using Tapioca Pearls
The small tapioca pearls serve as a thickening agent, giving the stew a nice consistency while adding subtle texture.
Flavor Enhancement
Adding sugar along with the salt balances the flavors, bringing out the sweetness of the vegetables and enhancing the overall taste of the stew.
FAQ
Can I use other cuts of beef?
Yes, you can use other cuts like beef stew meat or brisket, but cooking times may vary.
What if I don’t have an Instant Pot?
You can use a slow cooker or a stovetop pot, but cooking times will be longer.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables such as potatoes, peas, or mushrooms.
Is the oven step necessary?
No, it’s optional, but baking enhances the flavor and texture of the stew.
How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
What is the purpose of the tomato juice?
Tomato juice adds acidity and depth of flavor to the stew, balancing the richness of the beef.
Conclusion
This hearty beef stew offers a comforting and flavorful dish, perfect for any occasion. The combination of tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and a glossy gravy enriched with tapioca pearls makes for a satisfying meal. Whether served alone or with crusty bread, this stew is sure to be a hit with family and friends.
Beef and Mushroom Stew
Add sliced mushrooms along with the other vegetables for an earthy flavor that enriches the stew.
Spicy Beef Stew
Incorporate diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to introduce a warming spice to the stew.
Beef and Potato Stew
Include diced potatoes for a heartier meal, adding them to the Instant Pot along with the other ingredients.
Herbed Beef Stew
Mix in fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary to enhance the aromatic qualities of the dish.
Creamy Beef Stew
Stir in a splash of heavy cream or sour cream after cooking for a rich and creamy texture.
Asian-Inspired Beef Stew
Introduce soy sauce and sesame oil, along with ginger and garlic, for a delightful twist on traditional flavors.
