Instant Pot Corned Beef and Cabbage is a classic comfort dish that brings warmth and joy to any gathering. The savory flavors of the tender corned beef mingle beautifully with sweet, earthy cabbage and hearty vegetables. Its delightful aroma wafts through your kitchen, making it an inviting centerpiece for family dinners, St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, or any occasion where you want to impress and satisfy your loved ones.
As you prepare this dish, you’ll experience the delightful colors and textures from the bright vegetables against the rich, savory meat. The Instant Pot makes the cooking process quick and easy, perfect for those busy days when you crave something special. In this article, we will guide you through the recipe, highlight its benefits, and share tips for an unforgettable meal. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fresh ingredients create vibrant, wholesome flavors.
- Quick and easy prep, thanks to the Instant Pot.
- Packed with nutrition from the meat and vegetables.
- Versatile enough to suit any occasion or dietary need.
- Beautiful presentation that impresses guests.
This recipe combines fantastic flavors while being simple to make!
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 75 minutes
(Note that times may vary.)
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 4 cups water
- 3-4 pound corned beef brisket (includes spice packet)
- 1 yellow onion (cut into quarters)
- 1-2 russet potatoes (cut into 1-inch chunks)
- 6 medium carrots (peeled and cut into uniform 1-2 inch chunks)
- 1 head of cabbage (cut in half, remove core, cut into medium-sized wedges)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Pour 4 cups of water into the Instant Pot.
- Place the corned beef brisket in the pot, fat side up, and sprinkle the included spice packet over the meat.
- Add the quartered onion, potato chunks, and carrot pieces around the brisket.
- Lock the Instant Pot lid in place and set to high pressure for 75 minutes.
- Once the cooking time is up, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10-15 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
- Carefully remove the corned beef and veggies from the pot and place on a serving platter.
- Finally, add the cabbage wedges to the pot and cook on high pressure for an additional 5 minutes. Quick-release the pressure again.
- Slice the corned beef against the grain and serve with the cabbage and vegetables.
How to Serve
- Present the sliced corned beef on a large platter, layered with the cabbage wedges and colorful vegetables.
- Consider adding a dollop of grainy mustard or a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper for added flavor.
- Serve generous portions, allowing everyone to enjoy the heartiness of the meal.
- Pair with a cold beer or a glass of robust red wine for a delicious drink option.
Sharing this meal is sure to create a warm atmosphere!
Additional Tips
- For enhanced flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or bay leaf to the water while cooking.
- Customize your vegetables by adding turnips or parsnips for extra flavors.
- Serve leftovers in hearty sandwiches or chopped into a savory hash for breakfast.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Twist: Add a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes to the spice packet for a kick.
- Honey-Glazed: After cooking, brush the corned beef with honey and broil for a few minutes for a sweet crust.
- Slow Cooker Method: Follow the same ingredients but cook on low for 8-10 hours for a different texture.
Freezing and Storage
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: For best results, wrap portions in plastic wrap and foil before placing in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for 2-3 months.
Special Equipment
- Instant Pot or electric pressure cooker
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring cups
- Serving platter
- Airtight container for leftovers
FAQ’s
1. Can I use frozen corned beef?
Yes, frozen corned beef can be used, but you should adjust cooking time and ensure it is fully thawed for even cooking.
2. Is this recipe suitable for dietary restrictions?
Corned beef is not suitable for vegetarians, but you can substitute with plant-based proteins for a vegan version.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely, you can prepare the dish in advance, store it in the fridge, and reheat it before serving.
4. How can I customize the dish?
Feel free to adjust the vegetables to your liking or add spices you enjoy, such as garlic or paprika.
5. Can I cook this on the stovetop?
Yes! You can follow the same steps in a large pot or Dutch oven, allowing the meat to simmer for several hours until tender.
Conclusion
Instant Pot Corned Beef and Cabbage is a delightful meal that combines health, flavor, and convenience. It’s perfect for family gatherings or festive occasions, filling everyone’s bellies and hearts. With quick preparation and delicious results, you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe again and again. Enjoy the journey of making this comforting dish, and savor every bite!
Corned Beef and Cabbage
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups water
- 3-4 pound corned beef brisket (includes spice packet)
- 1 medium yellow onion (cut into quarters)
- 1-2 pieces russet potatoes (cut into 1-inch chunks)
- 6 medium carrots (peeled and cut into uniform 1-2 inch chunks)
- 1 head cabbage (cut in half, remove core, cut into medium-sized wedges)
Instructions
Preparation
- Pour 4 cups of water into the Instant Pot.
- Place the corned beef brisket in the pot, fat side up, and sprinkle the included spice packet over the meat.
- Add the quartered onion, potato chunks, and carrot pieces around the brisket.
Cooking
- Lock the Instant Pot lid in place and set to high pressure for 75 minutes.
- Once the cooking time is up, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10-15 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
- Carefully remove the corned beef and veggies from the pot and place on a serving platter.
- Add the cabbage wedges to the pot and cook on high pressure for an additional 5 minutes. Quick-release the pressure again.
- Slice the corned beef against the grain and serve with the cabbage and vegetables.
