How to cook chuck roast in instant pot?

How to Cook Chuck Roast in Instant Pot: A Step-by-Step Guide

Cooking chuck roast in an Instant Pot is a game-changer for busy home cooks. This versatile and affordable cut of beef can be transformed into a tender, fall-apart masterpiece with minimal effort and time. In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of cooking chuck roast in an Instant Pot, covering the basics, cooking times, and some tips and tricks to get you started.

What is Chuck Roast?

Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s start with the basics. Chuck roast is a type of beef roast that comes from the shoulder or chuck area of the cow. It’s a tougher cut of meat, which makes it perfect for slow-cooking methods like braising or pressure cooking. Chuck roast is known for its rich, beefy flavor and tender texture when cooked correctly.

Choosing the Right Cut of Meat

When selecting a chuck roast for the Instant Pot, look for a cut that’s at least 2-3 pounds and has a good balance of fat and lean meat. Choose a cut with a moderate amount of marbling (fat streaks) for added flavor and tenderness. You can find chuck roast at most grocery stores, usually labeled as "chuck roast" or "shoulder roast."

Basic Ingredients and Equipment

Before cooking your chuck roast, you’ll need the following ingredients and equipment:

• 1-3 pounds chuck roast
• 2-3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 cup red wine (optional)
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Instant Pot or other pressure cooker
• Lid and steam release handle

Cooking Chuck Roast in Instant Pot: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Brown the Roast

Preheat the Instant Pot by pressing the "Saute" button and setting it to "Normal." Add 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil to the pot and let it heat up for 1-2 minutes. Brown the chuck roast on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. This step is crucial for developing flavor and texture.

Step 2: Add Aromatics and Liquid

Once the roast is browned, remove it from the pot and set it aside. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and sauté until the onion is translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Add the beef broth, red wine (if using), tomato paste, and thyme to the pot. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer.

Step 3: Add the Roast and Pressure Cook

Return the browned chuck roast to the pot and make sure it’s covered with the liquid mixture. Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set the valve to "Sealing." Press the "Meat/Stew" button or "Manual" mode and set the cooking time to 60-90 minutes at high pressure.

Step 4: Let it Rest

Once the cooking time is up, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10-15 minutes. Then, quick-release any remaining pressure and carefully remove the lid. Let the roast rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips and Tricks

• Don’t overcrowd the pot: Cook the chuck roast in batches if necessary, to ensure it has enough room to cook evenly.
• Use a thermometer: Check the internal temperature of the roast to ensure it reaches a safe minimum internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
• Add potatoes and carrots: You can add diced potatoes and carrots to the pot during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a hearty, one-pot meal.
• Experiment with flavors: Try adding different spices, herbs, or sauces to the pot for added flavor and variety.

Instant Pot Chuck Roast Cooking Times

Here’s a rough guide to cooking times for chuck roast in an Instant Pot:

Conclusion

Cooking chuck roast in an Instant Pot is a simple and rewarding process that yields tender, flavorful results. By following these steps and tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a delicious, comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a busy home cook or a seasoned Instant Pot user, this guide will help you master the art of cooking chuck roast in an Instant Pot.