Are you craving a hearty, flavorful soup but short on time? Look no further! This Instant Pot beef soup recipe delivers a rich, savory broth packed with tender beef and wholesome vegetables in a fraction of the time it takes with traditional methods. It’s the perfect quick dinner idea, a healthy meal option, and a fantastic example of easy recipes that don’t compromise on taste. Get ready to experience the best recipes for comforting homemade cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 lb beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup chopped turnips (optional, but adds delicious flavor)
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by setting your Instant Pot to the "Sauté" function. Add the olive oil, then add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
Add the beef cubes to the pot and brown them on all sides. This step enhances the flavor of the soup. Don't overcrowd the pot; work in batches if needed.
Step 3: Add Remaining Ingredients
Stir in the tomato paste, beef broth, water, thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Scrape the bottom of the pot to loosen any browned bits.
Step 4: Pressure Cook
Secure the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to "Sealing." Cook on high pressure for 60 minutes. Allow a natural pressure release for 15 minutes, then carefully quick release any remaining pressure.
Step 5: Add Potatoes and Turnips (if using)
Remove the bay leaf. Add the potatoes and turnips (if using) to the pot. Stir gently.
Step 6: Simmer and Serve
If you prefer thicker soup, you can cook it on the "Sauté" function for a few minutes to reduce the liquid slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- For a richer broth: Use bone-in beef stew meat.
- Don't overcook the vegetables: Adding the potatoes and turnips later prevents them from becoming mushy.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Add more salt, pepper, or herbs as needed.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve with crusty bread or a side salad.
Delicious Variations:
- Add different vegetables: Experiment with other root vegetables like parsnips or sweet potatoes. Green beans or peas also work well.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or heavy cream before serving.
- Add barley or noodles: For a heartier soup, add 1/2 cup of barley or small pasta during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a good source of protein and fiber. The exact nutritional content will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. A general estimate per serving is around 350-400 calories, with varying amounts of protein, fat, and carbohydrates. Consult a nutrition calculator for a more precise analysis using your specific ingredients.
This Instant Pot beef soup is a simple yet satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights. It’s a versatile recipe that you can easily adapt to your preferences and dietary needs. Enjoy!