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Instant Pot Brisket: A Tender Triumph in Minutes

When it comes to cooking meat, brisket often reigns supreme for its rich flavour and melt-in-the-mouth texture. Traditionally, preparing a brisket can be a lengthy affair, typically requiring several hours of slow cooking. However, with the advent of the Instant Pot, you can achieve that same level of succulent tenderness in a fraction of the time. Here’s how to make the perfect Instant Pot brisket that will impress your family and friends.

What is Brisket?

Brisket is a cut of meat taken from the breast or lower chest of a cow. It’s ideal for slow cooking due to its connective tissues, which break down beautifully when subjected to low, prolonged heat. The Instant Pot’s pressure cooking capability mimics this effect by cooking the brisket quickly while retaining its juiciness and enhancing its flavour.

Ingredients

To make a delicious Instant Pot brisket, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1.5 to 2 kg of beef brisket
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 2 onions, sliced
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 500 ml beef stock
• 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tablespoons of brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons of smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation

Step 1: Season the Brisket

Start by generously seasoning the brisket with salt and pepper. This simple step will enhance the natural flavours of the meat and help create a delicious crust.

Step 2: Sear in the Instant Pot

Using the sauté function on your Instant Pot, heat the olive oil until it shimmers. Carefully place the brisket in the pot and sear each side for about 4 minutes, or until a golden brown crust forms. This step is crucial as it adds a depth of flavour that can elevate your dish.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

Once the brisket has been seared, remove it from the pot and set it aside. In the remaining juices, add the sliced onions and let them sauté until they’re soft and caramelised, about 5–7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Build the Cooking Liquid

Add the beef stock, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, and dried thyme to the pot. Stir well, scraping the bottom to release any browned bits. These bits, known as fond, are packed with flavour and will contribute to the overall richness of the dish.

Step 5: Pressure Cook the Brisket

Return the seared brisket to the pot, placing it atop the aromatic mixture. Secure the Instant Pot lid and set it to pressure cook on high for 70 minutes. For best results, allow for a natural release for about 10 to 15 minutes before manually releasing any remaining pressure.

Step 6: Rest and Slice

Once the pressure has been released, carefully remove the brisket from the pot and transfer it to a cutting board. Let it rest for at least 15 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute within the meat. This resting period is vital in achieving that ultimate tenderness.

When ready to serve, slice the brisket against the grain—this will ensure that each piece is juicy and easy to chew.

Serving Suggestions

Instant Pot brisket can be enjoyed in numerous ways. Consider serving it with creamy mashed potatoes, buttery cornbread, or a fresh, crisp salad. A drizzle of the cooking liquid over the slices will enhance the flavour and add moisture.

Conclusion

Cooking brisket doesn’t have to be a laborious task. The Instant Pot provides a convenient and efficient means of achieving a deeply flavoured, tender cut of meat worthy of any feast. Whether for a family dinner or a festive gathering, this Instant Pot brisket recipe offers a delightful solution that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Try it out and experience the delicious results for yourself!

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