This Instant Pot Corned Beef Brisket is a game-changer! It cooks quickly, turning tough meat into tender, juicy goodness in no time. Plus, the spices really add a nice kick!
I’ve made this dish for family dinners, and it never disappoints! Just set the Instant Pot, walk away, and wait for the mouthwatering smell to fill your kitchen. It’s that easy! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corned Beef Brisket: This is the star of the dish. Look for a brisket with a spice packet included. If you’re not a fan of corned beef, you could use a regular brisket and season it with your choice of spices.
Beef Broth: You can use beef broth for richer flavor. If you want a lighter version, water works too. For a more unique twist, try vegetable broth or chicken broth instead.
Potatoes: Baby potatoes are great for this recipe, but you can also use larger ones, just cut them into chunks. Sweet potatoes could be a delicious alternative if you want a different flavor.
Carrots: Feel free to swap out carrots for other vegetables like parsnips or turnips for added variety. Just make sure they are cut to a size that cooks well in the Instant Pot.
How Do I Get This Corned Beef Really Tender?
Achieving perfectly tender corned beef relies on cooking it under high pressure for the right amount of time. Follow these straightforward steps:
- Always rinse the corned beef to reduce saltiness from the brine.
- Place it fat side up in the pot. This allows the fat to baste the meat while cooking.
- Don’t skip the natural pressure release; this lets the meat relax so it stays juicy.
- Slicing against the grain is crucial for tenderness; if you cut with the grain, it can be tough.
How to Make Instant Pot Corned Beef Brisket
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 3 to 4 pounds corned beef brisket (with spice packet)
- 4 cups beef broth or water
- 1 onion, quartered
- 3-4 garlic cloves, smashed
- 4-5 baby potatoes
- 4-5 medium carrots, peeled
- 1/2 teaspoon black peppercorns (optional)
- Optional: 2 bay leaves
For Serving:
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
- Prepared mustard or horseradish sauce, for dipping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 15 minutes to prep and around 2 hours in total, including the cooking time and pressure release. The Instant Pot works its magic, making the brisket tender and flavorful with minimal effort!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Brisket:
Start by rinsing the corned beef brisket under cold water to wash away any excess brine. This step helps to ensure the meat isn’t too salty. Pat it dry with paper towels.
2. Assemble in the Instant Pot:
Place the brisket in the Instant Pot, fat side up. This allows the fat to melt and keep the meat juicy. Next, add the spice packet that came with the brisket, along with the black peppercorns, quartered onion, smashed garlic cloves, and bay leaves if you’re using them.
3. Add Liquid:
Pour beef broth or water into the pot until it partially covers the brisket—about 3 to 4 cups will do. This liquid is essential for pressure cooking and adds flavor to the meat.
4. Pressure Cook the Brisket:
Seal the Instant Pot lid, ensuring it’s locked in place, and set the valve to the sealing position. Cook on high pressure for 90 minutes. You can relax while it does its thing!
5. Release Pressure:
Once the cooking time is up, let the pressure release naturally for 15 minutes. After that, carefully release any remaining pressure before opening the lid. Be cautious of the steam!
6. Keep the Brisket Warm:
Remove the brisket from the pot and cover it with aluminum foil to keep it warm while you prepare the veggies.
7. Cook the Vegetables:
Add the baby potatoes and peeled carrots to the Instant Pot. Close the lid again and cook on high pressure for 5 minutes, then use quick release to let the pressure out.
8. Slice the Brisket:
Now it’s time to slice the corned beef! Cut it against the grain into 1/4-inch slices. This is key to ensuring tender pieces.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Arrange the sliced brisket on a serving platter and surround it with the cooked potatoes and carrots. Spoon some of the flavorful juices from the Instant Pot over the meat and garnish with fresh parsley for that extra pop!
10. Dipping Sauce:
Serve with prepared mustard or horseradish sauce on the side for dipping. This adds a nice kick to the dish!
Enjoy the tender, flavorful Instant Pot Corned Beef Brisket with delicious vegetables!
Can I Use A Different Cut of Meat?
Yes, you can use a different cut like a regular brisket or even a round roast, but cooking times may vary. Generally, a regular brisket will need a longer cooking time to become tender, so aim for around 2 to 3 hours in the Instant Pot.
Can I Make This Corned Beef in Advance?
Absolutely! You can cook the brisket ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat it gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with some added broth to maintain moisture.
What Can I Substitute for the Vegetables?
Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies! Other options include cabbage, parsnips, or celery. Just remember to adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the vegetables you’re using.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the sliced brisket with its juices in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating!
