Introduction
This Instant Pot Pot Roast is a warm, hearty meal perfect for chilly days. Tender beef, flavorful vegetables, and savory gravy come together effortlessly with the convenience of a pressure cooker. With minimal hands-on time, you can enjoy a comforting dinner with your family without the fuss.
Detailed Ingredients
1.5 kg beef chuck roast
30 ml vegetable oil
2 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
500 ml beef broth
60 ml soy sauce
120 ml red wine
400 g baby potatoes, halved
250 g carrots, cut into chunks
1 large onion, quartered
30 ml tomato paste
2 sprigs fresh thyme
2 sprigs fresh rosemary
15 g cornstarch
45 ml water
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 95 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
**Detailed Directions and Instructions**
Step 1: Prepare the Instant Pot
Set the Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ mode. Pour in the vegetable oil and allow it to heat up.
Step 2: Season and Brown the Beef
Season the beef chuck roast generously with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Once the oil is hot, add the beef to the pot. Sear the meat on all sides for about 5-7 minutes until it forms a beautiful brown crust. After browning, remove the beef and set it aside on a plate.
Step 3: Deglaze the Pot
With the pot still on ‘Sauté’, pour in the beef broth, soy sauce, and red wine. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pot. This step is crucial for developing deeper flavors.
Step 4: Add Vegetables and Herbs
Stir in the tomato paste, ensuring it dissolves well. Next, add the halved baby potatoes, chopped carrots, quartered onion, thyme, and rosemary into the pot, creating a colorful bed of vegetables.
Step 5: Combine Beef and Vegetables
Place the browned beef roast back into the pot, laying it on top of the vegetable assortment. This will allow the flavors to meld beautifully as they cook together.
Step 6: Pressure Cook the Pot Roast
Seal the Instant Pot lid firmly. Set the cooker to ‘Pressure Cook’ on high for 60 minutes. This gives the beef ample time to become tender and soak up all the flavors.
Step 7: Release Pressure
Once the cooking cycle completes, allow the pressure to release naturally for 15 minutes. After that, perform a quick release for any remaining steam.
Step 8: Remove and Rest
Carefully take out the beef and vegetables using tongs or a slotted spoon. Set them on a serving platter and allow the beef to rest before slicing.
Step 9: Make the Gravy
Skim off any excess fat from the cooking liquid in the pot. Switch the pot back to ‘Sauté’. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into the pot, cooking until the liquid thickens into a rich gravy that coats the back of a spoon.
Step 10: Serve
Slice the pot roast into thick pieces and serve alongside the tender vegetables. Generously drizzle the homemade gravy over the top for an irresistible finish.
**Notes**
Ingredient Substitutions
You can substitute beef chuck with brisket or round roast for a leaner option. For a different flavor profile, try using different herbs like oregano or adding some bay leaves.
Vegetable Variations
Feel free to add other hearty vegetables such as parsnips or turnips, based on your preference.
Storage Tips
Store leftover pot roast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Serving Suggestions
This pot roast pairs wonderfully with warm, crusty bread or fluffy mashed potatoes for a comforting dinner experience.
Gravy Consistency
If the gravy turns out too thick, you can whisk in a bit more broth or water until the desired consistency is achieved.
Beef Quality
Choosing a well-marbled cut of beef chuck will result in a more succulent and flavorful roast.
Cook techniques
Searing
Searing the beef chuck roast is crucial for developing rich flavors. The high heat caramelizes the beef’s exterior, creating a delicious crust that enhances the overall taste of the dish.
Deglazing
After browning the meat, deglazing the pot with liquids like broth, soy sauce, and red wine helps lift the flavorful bits stuck to the bottom. This adds depth and richness to the gravy.
Pressure Cooking
Using the pressure cooking function speeds up the cooking process significantly, ensuring that the beef becomes tender and the flavors meld beautifully. Cooking on high pressure for 60 minutes is ideal for tough cuts like chuck roast.
Natural Pressure Release
Allowing the pressure to release naturally for 15 minutes helps the meat retain its moisture and makes it easier to carve. A quick release after this period safely releases the remaining steam.
Thickening Sauces
To achieve a luscious gravy, mix cornstarch with water and stir it into the liquid. Heating the mixture until it thickens creates a smooth, flavorful sauce that complements the pot roast perfectly.
FAQ
Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
Yes, while chuck roast is recommended for its tenderness after slow cooking, you can use other cuts like brisket or round, keeping in mind that cooking times may vary.
Can I make this pot roast recipe without red wine?
Absolutely! You can replace red wine with additional beef broth, grape juice, or omit it entirely if desired.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftover pot roast can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, feel free to add other root vegetables like parsnips or turnips, but be mindful of their cooking times to ensure everything is tender.
How do I know when the pot roast is done cooking?
The pot roast should be fork-tender. You can check the doneness by easily shredding the meat with a fork, indicating that it has cooked through properly.
Conclusion
This Instant Pot Pot Roast with Vegetables is a perfect solution for a comforting meal that requires minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor. Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting friends, this hearty dish is sure to impress. With the tender beef and a rich, savory gravy paired with colorful vegetables, it’s a satisfying option for any chilly day and a wonderful way to warm up your kitchen and spirits.
Classic Mashed Potatoes
Serve your pot roast with creamy mashed potatoes for a classic pairing that beautifully complements the dish.
Honey Glazed Brussels Sprouts
Add a side of honey glazed Brussels sprouts for a sweet and savory contrast that enhances the overall flavor profile.
Garlic Butter Green Beans
Sauté green beans with garlic and butter for a simple, yet flavorful side that adds vibrant color to your meal.
Herbed Couscous
Light and fluffy herbed couscous can be a delightful addition, soaking up the delicious gravy from the pot roast.
Apple Crisp for Dessert
Conclude your meal with a warm apple crisp topped with vanilla ice cream for a comforting dessert that pairs wonderfully with the richness of pot roast.
Crusty Bread
Serve slices of crusty bread alongside for a great way to mop up any leftover gravy, adding another level of comfort to your dining experience.
