This Instant Pot Corned Beef And Cabbage recipe is a celebration of flavors that brings together tender, juicy corned beef, vibrant vegetables, and the aromatic essence of spices. Perfect for St. Patrick’s Day or any cozy gathering, this dish is not only delicious but also quick and easy thanks to the magic of the Instant Pot. With its rich flavors and melt-in-your-mouth texture, this meal has become a beloved classic that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will love this recipe for many reasons! First and foremost, the Instant Pot significantly reduces cooking time compared to traditional methods, allowing you to enjoy a comforting and hearty meal in under two hours. The corned beef becomes incredibly tender, infused with the spices that accompany it, while the cabbage and vegetables soak up all that delicious flavor. This dish fits perfectly into a busy lifestyle, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or meal prepping. Plus, it’s a fantastic source of protein and vegetables, supporting a balanced diet!
Tips and Tricks
To ensure your Instant Pot Corned Beef and Cabbage turns out perfectly every time, here are some handy tips and tricks:
- Make sure to use a good quality corned beef brisket; look for one that has a nice marbling of fat to keep the meat moist.
- Don’t skip the spice packet that comes with the corned beef; it adds essential flavor.
- For more flavor, consider searing the corned beef for a few minutes in the Instant Pot before cooking it.
- If you prefer your cabbage to have a bit more crunch, add it to the pot during the last 10 minutes of cooking, instead of at the start.
Make Ahead Tips
For those who love to meal prep, this dish can be made ahead of time! You can prepare the corned beef and vegetables up to 1 day in advance. Keep the beef and veggies in separate airtight containers in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, just add them to the Instant Pot with the liquid and seasoning. Cooked corned beef can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months, making it an excellent choice for future meals.
Recipe Variations
Feel free to customize this dish to fit your taste! Here are some variations:
- Swap out the cabbage for other leafy greens like kale or collard greens for a different flavor profile.
- Add root vegetables such as parsnips or turnips for additional sweetness and texture.
- For a spicy kick, add a few crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the cooking liquid.
- If you prefer a non-traditional approach, try using a pressure cooker to braise a different cut of meat, like pork shoulder, with similar spices.
How to Serve
To serve your Instant Pot Corned Beef and Cabbage, slice the beef against the grain into thick pieces and arrange it on a large platter. Surround it with the cooked cabbage, carrots, and potatoes for a colorful presentation. Drizzle with a bit of the cooking liquid for added flavor and moisture. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color. This dish is perfect for family-style sharing!
Pairing Suggestions
Enhance your meal with some delightful pairings:
- For drinks, consider serving a classic Irish stout, such as Guinness, or a crisp lager. If you prefer wine, a light red, like Pinot Noir, complements the dish beautifully.
- For a non-alcoholic option, serve sparkling apple cider or a robust herbal tea.
- On the side, consider serving homemade soda bread or a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish. For dessert, a slice of Irish cream cheesecake or a warm apple pie would be a perfect finish!
How to Store
To store leftovers, place the corned beef and vegetables in separate airtight containers. The cooked meat will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, while the vegetables should be consumed within 3 days for optimal freshness. For longer storage, freeze the beef and vegetables in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Equipment Needed
You will need an Instant Pot for this recipe, as it is the star of the show! If you don’t have one, a traditional pressure cooker can be used, but cooking times may vary. A sharp knife and cutting board are also essential for slicing the corned beef after cooking.
Dietary Adaptations
For those with dietary restrictions, here are some adaptations:
- To make this recipe gluten-free, ensure that the corned beef does not contain any gluten-based additives.
- For a vegetarian version, consider using a plant-based meat alternative or jackfruit seasoned with similar spices, but note that cooking times will differ.
- To make it low-sodium, look for low-sodium corned beef or prepare your own spice blend to control the salt content.
- If someone is dairy-free, this recipe naturally fits that requirement.
Seasonal Adaptations
Consider using seasonal produce to enhance your dish. In the fall, add roasted root vegetables like sweet potatoes or squash for warmth and sweetness. In the spring, fresh peas or asparagus can be a delightful addition, bringing a burst of color and flavor to the dish.
Recipe FAQs
Q: Can I use a different cut of beef?
A: Yes! While corned beef brisket is traditional, you can use other cuts like round or chuck, but the cooking time may vary.
Q: How long do I cook corned beef in the Instant Pot?
A: Generally, cook corned beef for about 90 minutes on high pressure for a 3-4 pound brisket.
Q: What should I do if the beef isn’t tender after cooking?
A: If the beef isn’t tender, it likely needs more time. Simply seal the pot and cook for an additional 15-20 minutes.
Q: Can I use fresh cabbage?
A: Yes! Fresh cabbage works wonderfully in this recipe. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to your preference for tenderness.
Instant Pot Corned Beef And Cabbage
This Instant Pot Corned Beef And Cabbage recipe is a celebration of flavors that brings together tender, juicy corned beef, vibrant vegetables, and the aromatic essence of spices.
Ingredients
- 3-4 pounds corned beef brisket (with spice packet)
- 4 cups beef broth or water
- 1 large onion, quartered
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound baby carrots
- 1-2 pounds small red or yellow potatoes, halved
- 1 head green cabbage, cut into wedges
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for searing, optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Begin by rinsing the corned beef under cold water to remove excess salt. Pat it dry with paper towels.
- Set your Instant Pot to the sauté setting. If desired, add olive oil and sear the corned beef on both sides until browned, about 4-5 minutes per side.
- Remove the corned beef and add the onion and garlic to the pot, sautéing until fragrant (about 2 minutes).
- Return the corned beef to the pot, placing it on top of the onions. Add the spice packet, beef broth or water, and baby carrots.
- Close the lid of the Instant Pot, ensuring the valve is set to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 90 minutes.
- Once the cooking time is up, allow for a natural release for 15 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
- Carefully remove the corned beef and cover it with foil to keep warm.
- Add the potatoes and cabbage to the pot, resealing the lid. Cook on high pressure for an additional 5-6 minutes.
- Once done, quick release the pressure again. Remove the cabbage and potatoes.
- Slice the corned beef against the grain and serve with the vegetables. Drizzle with a bit of the cooking liquid and garnish with fresh parsley.
Nutrition Information
Yield
6Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 1063Total Fat 59gSaturated Fat 23gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 28gCholesterol 321mgSodium 827mgCarbohydrates 37gFiber 8gSugar 11gProtein 94g
Dinnerfocus.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Making Instant Pot Corned Beef and Cabbage is not only a great way to enjoy a traditional dish but also a fantastic opportunity to gather around the table with family and friends. The simplicity of this recipe, combined with the depth of flavor, ensures that it will be a hit at any gathering. I hope you enjoy making this comforting dish as much as I do, and that it brings warmth and joy to your home!
