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Instant Pot Minced Beef and Onions Recipe: A Comforting Classic

In the hustle and bustle of daily life, finding a quick yet delicious meal can often feel like a challenge. Fortunately, with the help of an Instant Pot, preparing hearty dishes such as minced beef and onions has never been easier or more efficient. This classic British dish is not only comforting and satisfying but also wallet-friendly, making it a perfect addition to anyone’s meal rotation. Today, we’ll explore a straightforward recipe that is sure to become a family favourite.

Ingredients

To whip up this scrumptious dish, you will need the following ingredients:

• 500g minced beef (preferably lean)
• 2 medium onions, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon tomato purée
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or a few sprigs of fresh thyme)
• 250ml beef stock (homemade or store-bought)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Optional: 1 tablespoon gravy granules for thickness
• Optional: a splash of red wine for extra depth of flavour

Equipment

• Instant Pot or any electric pressure cooker
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Chopping board and knife

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Onions

Start by turning your Instant Pot to the ‘Sauté’ setting. Once hot, add the olive oil and allow it to warm up. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.

Step 2: Brown the Minced Beef

Next, increase the heat slightly and add the minced beef to the pot. Break it up with a wooden spoon and cook until it is browned throughout. This step is crucial as it enhances the flavour of your dish. Don’t forget to season with a bit of salt and pepper during this process.

Step 3: Add the Flavourings

Once the beef has browned, stir in the tomato purée, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, and any other herbs you fancy. If you’re feeling adventurous, now is the time to add a splash of red wine for additional richness. Stir everything together to ensure the flavours meld nicely.

Step 4: Pressure Cook

Pour the beef stock into the pot, scraping up any bits that may have stuck to the bottom to prevent burning during the pressure cooking phase. Close the lid and ensure the steam valve is set to ‘Sealing’. Select the ‘Manual’ or ‘Pressure Cook’ setting and set the timer for 10 minutes. Once the cooking cycle is complete, let the pressure release naturally for about 5 minutes before performing a quick release to let out any remaining steam.

Step 5: Thicken (if necessary)

If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can whisk in a tablespoon of gravy granules at this point. Turn the Instant Pot back to ‘Sauté’ mode and let it simmer for a few minutes until it thickens to your desired consistency. Adjust the seasoning if necessary.

Serving Suggestion

Serve your minced beef and onions with fluffy mashed potatoes, creamy polenta, or freshly made rice for a hearty meal. It’s also excellent over a bed of freshly cooked pasta or nestled in a crusty bread roll for a delightful beef sandwich.

Storage and Reheating

This recipe is perfect for meal prep — it keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days and freezes beautifully, making it a great option for busy weeknights. When reheating, ensure that it is piping hot all the way through. You can either microwave it or reheat it gently on the stove.

Conclusion

This Instant Pot minced beef and onions recipe is a fantastic way to bring a touch of warmth and comfort to your table while staying frugal. Not only is it quick and simple, but it also allows for creativity with additional herbs and flavours. So, why not give it a go? Your taste buds (and your wallet) will thank you! Happy cooking!