Recipe
Apple Beef Stew in the Instant Pot Recipe
Published: April 1, 2024
This hearty beef stew, with a sweet twist of apples, is my go-to comfort food. It's simple to whip up in the Instant Pot, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
(Many of the links in this article redirect to a specific reviewed product. Your purchase of these products through affiliate links helps to generate commission for HomePressureCooking.com, at no extra cost. Learn more)
Picture this: it's a cool, crisp evening and you're cozy inside, craving something warm and hearty. That's where my instant pot apple beef stew recipe comes in. This isn't your average stew - it's packed with tender beef, fragrant herbs, and the star of the show, tangy apples that add a unique, mouthwatering twist. Trust me, once you've had a taste of this, you'll be making it all the time - it's that good! So, pull out your instant pot and let's get cooking!
Ingredients for Delicious Apple Beef Stew
- Beef stew meat: Tender and flavorful protein base that adds richness and heartiness to the stew.
- Olive oil: Provides a rich base for sautéing ingredients and adds depth of flavor to the overall dish.
- Onion: Adds savory sweetness and depth of flavor to the stew, enhancing the overall taste profile.
- Garlic: Infuses a pungent and aromatic flavor that complements the other ingredients in the stew beautifully.
- Carrots: Bring natural sweetness and vibrant color to the stew, adding a subtle earthy flavor to the dish.
- Celery: Offers a refreshing crunch and subtle bitterness that balances the sweetness of the other ingredients.
- Apples: Provide a touch of natural sweetness and a hint of tartness that complements the savory elements in the stew.
- Beef broth: Infuses rich umami flavor and depth to the stew, enhancing the overall savory profile of the dish.
- Thyme: Adds a warm, earthy aroma and flavor that pairs well with the beef and other ingredients in the stew.
One interesting fact about this instant pot apple beef stew recipe is that adding a splash of apple cider vinegar towards the end of cooking can enhance the overall flavor profile by adding a subtle tanginess to the stew. It's a little trick that can really elevate the dish!
Read more: Hearty Beef Stew Recipe
Essential Tools for Making This Instant Pot Stew
- Instant Pot: Essential for pressure cooking the beef stew quickly, ensuring tender meat and flavorful dish.
- Chef's knife: Needed for cutting the beef stew meat, onions, garlic, carrots, celery, and apples into bite-sized pieces.
- Cutting board: Provides a safe and stable surface for chopping and preparing the ingredients for the stew.
- Measuring cup: Ensures accurate measurement of beef broth and other liquids for the perfect balance of flavors in the stew.
Common Questions About This Instant Pot Beef Stew Recipe
Serves: 4 people
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 35 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs beef stew meat, cubed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 apples, peeled and diced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and heat the olive oil.
- Add the beef stew meat and brown on all sides.
- Add the onion and garlic, sauté until fragrant.
- Add the carrots, celery, apples, beef broth, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Close the Instant Pot lid and set to high pressure for 25 minutes.
- Once done, allow for a natural pressure release for 10 minutes before quick releasing.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Read more: How to Make Italian Style Beef Stew
Nutritional value:
Per Serving in Calories: 380 kcal | Carbohydrates: 18 g | Protein: 30 g | Total Fat: 20 g | Saturated Fat: 6 g | Trans Fat: 0 g | Monounsaturated Fat: 10 g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2 g | Cholesterol: 90 mg | Sodium: 600 mg | Dietary Fiber: 4 g | Sugar: 10 g | Calcium: 60 mg | Potassium: 700 mg | Iron: 4 mg | Vitamin A: 200 µg | Vitamin C: 8 mg
Tips for Making Apple Beef Stew Ahead of Time
Make Ahead Instructions
- Prepare the stew as instructed and let it cool completely.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Freezing Instructions
- Allow the stew to cool completely.
- Transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag, leaving some room for expansion.
- Label with the date and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
