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Instant Pot Roast Beef and Gravy: A Hearty Delight

When it comes to preparing a comforting meal for family and friends, few dishes rival the classic roast beef and gravy. Thanks to the modern marvel that is the Instant Pot, you can whip up this traditional favourite in no time, achieving tender, flavourful meat and rich gravy without the hours of cooking typically required. This guide will walk you through the process of creating a mouth-watering Instant Pot roast beef and gravy that’s sure to impress.

Why Use an Instant Pot?

The Instant Pot is a multi-functional kitchen appliance that combines the functionalities of a pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker, and more. Its ability to cook food quickly while preserving moisture makes it the ideal tool for achieving succulent roast beef. In just a fraction of the time it would take in a conventional oven, you can create a meal that’s bursting with flavour.

Ingredients

For a classic Instant Pot roast beef and gravy, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1.5-2 kg beef joint (chuck or brisket works well)
• Salt and black pepper (to taste)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, peeled and diced
• 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups beef stock (homemade or shop-bought)
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 2-3 carrots, chopped
• 2-3 potatoes, peeled and diced (optional)
• 1 tablespoon cornflour (for thickening the gravy)
• Fresh parsley (to garnish, optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Meat: Start by seasoning your beef joint generously with salt and black pepper. This not only enhances flavour but also aids in the browning process.

2. Sear the Beef: Set the Instant Pot to the ‘Sauté’ mode and allow it to heat up. Add the vegetable oil to the pot, and when it shimmers, carefully place the beef joint inside. Sear each side for about 4-5 minutes until a deep golden brown crust forms. This step adds depth of flavour to the dish.

3. Sauté the Vegetables: Once the beef is browned, remove it from the pot and set it aside. In the remaining oil, add the diced onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until soft. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

4. Deglaze the Pot: Pour in a splash of beef stock to the pot to deglaze it, scraping up any browned bits stuck to the bottom. This ensures that you retain all the flavour for your gravy.

5. Add the Liquid and Aromatics: Return the beef to the pot and add the remaining beef stock, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce (if using), and dried thyme. Arrange the chopped carrots and potatoes around the beef.

6. Pressure Cook: Secure the lid of the Instant Pot, ensuring the vent is set to sealing. Set it to ‘Manual’ or ‘Pressure Cook’ on high for 60-70 minutes, depending on the size of your beef joint. The larger the joint, the longer it will need.

7. Release Pressure: Once the cooking time has elapsed, allow for a natural pressure release for about 10-15 minutes, then perform a quick release for any remaining pressure.

8. Make the Gravy: Carefully remove the beef and vegetables from the pot and set aside. Select ‘Sauté’ mode again and bring the liquid to a simmer. To thicken the gravy, mix the cornflour with a bit of water to create a slurry and stir it into the pot. Cook for a few minutes until it thickens to your desired consistency.

9. Serve: Slice the roast beef against the grain and serve it with the vegetables and plenty of rich gravy. A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top adds a lovely finishing touch.

Tips for Success

• Choose the Right Cut: Tougher cuts such as chuck or brisket become incredibly tender when cooked under pressure, making them ideal for this recipe.
• Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to tweak the seasonings and vegetables according to your taste. Mushrooms, parsnips, or swede can be delightful additions.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to three days or frozen for future delicious meals.

Conclusion

Making roast beef and gravy in an Instant Pot is not just a time-saver; it’s also a fantastic way to enjoy a traditional British meal with convenience. Whether it’s a Sunday family dinner or a festive gathering, this recipe guarantees tender meat and flavoursome gravy that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Dive into this comforting dish and experience the joys of home-cooked goodness in a fraction of the time. Enjoy!

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