Ah, the delightful flavor of corned beef and cabbage! I can’t help but smile every time I whip up this dish in my Instant Pot. Growing up, this meal was a staple in my household, especially around St. Patrick’s Day. My mom would always say there’s nothing quite like the savory aroma of corned beef simmering away, filling the house with warmth and comfort. Honestly, it’s like a cozy hug on a plate!
What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to make in the Instant Pot. It cuts down on cooking time drastically and still delivers that tender, succulent bite we all crave. Plus, there’s a fantastic one-pot aspect to it that makes cleanup a breeze. So gather your ingredients, and let’s create something magical together!
What’s in Instant Pot Corned Beef and Cabbage?
Corned Beef Brisket: This is the star of the show! I usually go for a 3 to 4 lbs brisket with a spice packet included. It’s packed with flavor and just melts in your mouth once it’s cooked.
Beef Broth (or Water): This liquid is essential for creating a rich base for our dish. I prefer using beef broth for that extra depth of flavor, but water works just fine if you’re in a pinch!
Onion: A medium onion, quartered, adds a lovely sweetness and softens beautifully as it cooks.
Garlic: Three cloves of minced garlic provide that perfect aromatic kick. Seriously, is there anything better than the smell of garlic as it cooks?
Carrots: Four medium carrots cut into 2-inch pieces give that sweet crunch we all adore alongside our tender beef.
Baby Potatoes: These little gems, halved to about 1 lb, absorb all the yummy flavors from the broth, making them a delightful addition to the plate.
Cabbage: A small head of cabbage, cut into wedges, is essential for that classic presentation. Plus, it steams beautifully in the residual heat!
Black Peppercorns (optional): These add a little extra flavor punch if you happen to have them on hand. They aren’t necessary, but they certainly don’t hurt!
Salt: Don’t forget to season to taste, because even the best corned beef deserves a pinch of salt!
Fresh Parsley: Lastly, a sprinkle of chopped parsley not only brightens up the dish but adds a fresh finish that makes everything pop!
Is Instant Pot Corned Beef and Cabbage Good for You?
Oh, the age-old question of whether comfort food can also be healthy! Let’s dive into it.
Corned Beef: While it’s delicious, it is a bit high in sodium and saturated fat, so it’s best to enjoy this dish in moderation. But hey, life is about enjoying what you love!
Vegetables: On the healthier side, you’ve got carrots, potatoes, and cabbage loaded with vitamins and fiber, making this meal more balanced!
So yes, while this dish might not be a daily staple, it’s perfect for special occasions when you want something heartwarming and delicious without too much fuss.
Ingredients List
– 3 to 4 lbs corned beef brisket, with spice packet
– 1 cup beef broth (or water)
– 1 medium onion, quartered
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 medium carrots, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 lb baby potatoes, halved
– 1 small head of cabbage, cut into wedges
– 1 teaspoon black peppercorns (optional)
– Salt to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
This recipe serves about 6-8 people, depending on your appetite or how many side dishes you pair with it!
How to Make Instant Pot Corned Beef and Cabbage?
1. Begin by placing the trivet inside your Instant Pot. This helps keep the meat above the liquid. Pour in the beef broth or water, then add the quartered onion, minced garlic, and black peppercorns (if you’re using them).
2. Now, place the corned beef brisket on top of the trivet, fat side up. Grab that seasoning packet and sprinkle it evenly over the meat.
3. Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set the valve to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 90 minutes.
4. Once the cooking is done, let the pressure release naturally for about 15 minutes. After that, carefully switch the valve to venting to release any remaining pressure.
5. Open the lid and add the carrots and potatoes around the brisket. Close the lid again and cook on high pressure for another 6 minutes.
6. After the vegetable cooking time is done, use the quick release method to let out the steam.
7. Now it’s cabbage time! Add the cabbage wedges into the pot, close the lid, and let the residual heat steam the cabbage for about 5 minutes.
8. Carefully remove the corned beef and vegetables from the pot. Let the corned beef rest a bit (about 10 minutes) before slicing against the grain for that perfect presentation.
9. Serve your beautifully sliced corned beef with the cabbage and vegetables on a large platter, garnished with freshly chopped parsley. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Perfect Pairings for Your Corned Beef Feast
Here are some suggestions to elevate your meal:
– Serve it with some homemade Irish soda bread for scooping up those tasty veggies and broth.
– A side of mustard or horseradish adds a nice zing!
– Need a drink? I recommend a nice cold pint of your favorite stout or a cozy cup of Irish tea!
Whether you’re making this for a special occasion or simply to bring a taste of nostalgia to your dinner table, I hope you enjoy every bite! Whenever I make this dish, it always brings back fond memories of laughter and good food shared with loved ones. So, don your apron, fire up your Instant Pot, and let’s make some kitchen magic together! I’d love to hear how it turns out for you!
