Corned beef is a classic dish, often associated with St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, but it’s delicious enough to be enjoyed year-round. Traditionally made by slow-cooking a beef brisket in a seasoned brine, corned beef becomes incredibly tender and flavorful. Using an Instant Pot significantly reduces the cooking time while still achieving the same succulent results. This recipe will guide you through making corned beef in an Instant Pot, ensuring a juicy, flavorful meal that can be served with cabbage, potatoes, or your favorite sides.
Ingredients for Instant Pot Corned Beef
Corned Beef
- 3-4 pounds corned beef brisket, with spice packet
- 4 cups water
- 1 large onion, quartered
- 4 garlic cloves, smashed
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
Optional Vegetables
- 1 pound baby potatoes, halved
- 4 large carrots, peeled and cut into large pieces
- 1 small head of cabbage, cut into wedges
How to Make Instant Pot Corned Beef
Step 1: Prepare the Corned Beef
- Rinse the corned beef brisket under cold water to remove excess brine. Pat it dry with paper towels.
- Place the trivet in the Instant Pot and add the water.
- Place the rinsed corned beef brisket on the trivet, fat side up.
- Sprinkle the contents of the spice packet over the brisket.
- Add the quartered onion, smashed garlic cloves, bay leaves, black peppercorns, and mustard seeds to the pot.
Step 2: Pressure Cook the Corned Beef
- Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set the valve to the sealing position.
- Select the “Pressure Cook” or “Manual” setting and set the timer for 90 minutes on high pressure.
- Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 15 minutes, then carefully release any remaining pressure by turning the valve to the venting position.
Step 3: Cook the Vegetables (Optional)
- If adding vegetables, remove the cooked corned beef from the Instant Pot and set it aside, covered with foil to keep warm.
- Add the potatoes and carrots to the Instant Pot, placing them in the liquid.
- Place the cabbage wedges on top of the vegetables.
- Close the lid of the Instant Pot, set the valve to the sealing position, and select the “Pressure Cook” or “Manual” setting. Set the timer for 4 minutes on high pressure.
- Once the cooking time is complete, perform a quick release by turning the valve to the venting position.
Step 4: Serve the Corned Beef
- Slice the corned beef against the grain into thin slices.
- Arrange the cooked vegetables on a serving platter and place the sliced corned beef on top.
- Serve hot, with additional mustard or horseradish sauce on the side if desired.
About the Main Ingredients
Corned Beef Brisket: Corned beef is made from beef brisket, which is cured in a seasoned brine. The term “corned” comes from the large grains of rock salt, called “corns,” used in the curing process. The brisket is a tough cut of meat that becomes tender and flavorful when cooked slowly or under high pressure in the Instant Pot.
Onion: Onions add a natural sweetness and depth of flavor to the cooking liquid, enhancing the overall taste of the corned beef.
Garlic: Garlic cloves contribute a robust and aromatic flavor, complementing the other spices in the dish.
Bay Leaves: Bay leaves add a subtle herbal note that rounds out the flavor profile of the corned beef.
Black Peppercorns and Mustard Seeds: These whole spices provide a slight heat and a tangy flavor that penetrates the meat during cooking, contributing to the traditional taste of corned beef.
Potatoes, Carrots, and Cabbage: These vegetables are classic accompaniments to corned beef. Potatoes add heartiness, carrots bring sweetness, and cabbage offers a slight bitterness that balances the richness of the meat. Cooking them in the flavorful broth infuses them with the savory essence of the corned beef.
Cooking corned beef in an Instant Pot is a convenient and efficient way to enjoy this beloved dish. The pressure cooking process ensures that the meat remains tender and juicy, while the aromatic spices create a rich and flavorful broth. Whether you’re celebrating St. Patrick’s Day or simply craving a hearty meal, this Instant Pot Corned Beef recipe is sure to satisfy. Serve it with the traditional vegetables or get creative with your sides for a delicious and comforting meal.
