Perfect Instant Pot Corned Beef and Cabbage with Potatoes

why make this recipe

Perfect Instant Pot Corned Beef and Cabbage with Potatoes is a classic dish that is surprisingly easy to make. Cooking it in the Instant Pot saves time and keeps the meat tender and juicy. This meal is great for special occasions, especially around St. Patrick’s Day, but it’s also wonderful for a comforting family dinner any time of year. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can enjoy a hearty meal that brings everyone together.

how to make Perfect Instant Pot Corned Beef and Cabbage with Potatoes

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large yellow onion, thickly sliced
• 4-5 cloves garlic, smashed
• 1 (3-4 pound) corned beef brisket (flat cut recommended), with spice packet, rinsed and patted dry
• 2 cups low-sodium beef broth, divided
• 2 tablespoons whole-grain mustard
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar or honey
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional)
• 1.5 pounds small Yukon Gold potatoes, halved
• 4 large carrots, peeled and cut into 2-inch pieces
• 1 head green cabbage, cut into 8 wedges, core intact
• Fresh parsley or chives, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Directions:

1. Turn the Instant Pot to Sauté (Normal). Heat the olive oil. Add the onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
2. Pour in 1 cup of beef broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. Stir in the remaining 1 cup of broth, mustard, brown sugar or honey, apple cider vinegar (if using), and the spice packet. Cancel Sauté.
3. Place the rinsed and dried brisket into the pot, fat-side up. Close the lid, set the valve to ‘Sealing.’ Pressure Cook (High) for 90 minutes.
4. Allow the pressure to release naturally for at least 15-20 minutes. Then, manually release any remaining steam. Carefully open the lid.
5. Transfer the brisket to a cutting board and tent loosely with foil to rest.
6. Add the potatoes and carrots to the liquid in the pot. Close the lid, set the valve to ‘Sealing,’ and cook on High Pressure for 3 minutes. Quick release the pressure.
7. Open the lid and add the cabbage wedges, nestling them gently into the hot liquid. Close the lid (it does not need to be sealed) and let sit for 5-8 minutes, until the cabbage is tender.
8. Use a slotted spoon to transfer vegetables to a serving platter. Slice the corned beef thinly against the grain. Arrange the meat on the platter with vegetables. Ladle some of the warm cooking juices over the top. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

how to serve Perfect Instant Pot Corned Beef and Cabbage with Potatoes

Serve this dish hot, directly from the pot or after plating it on a large serving platter. It pairs well with whole grain mustard or horseradish on the side. A little fresh parsley or chives sprinkled on top adds color and flavor.

how to store Perfect Instant Pot Corned Beef and Cabbage with Potatoes

For leftovers, let the corned beef and vegetables cool down to room temperature. Then, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can stay fresh for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked corned beef and vegetables. Just make sure to use freezer-safe containers or bags.

tips to make Perfect Instant Pot Corned Beef and Cabbage with Potatoes

• Make sure to rinse the corned beef brisket to remove excess salt before cooking.
• If you like a little spice, feel free to add a few whole peppercorns or red pepper flakes to the cooking liquid.
• You can substitute the carrots for other root vegetables like parsnips or turnips for a different flavor.

variation

For a twist, try adding other vegetables like green beans or turnips. You can also cook some of the corned beef as a sandwich filling after the main meal, using crusty bread and toppings like mustard or pickles.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, you can use a different cut, but brisket is the most traditional choice for corned beef.

2. How long does it take to cook corned beef in an Instant Pot?
Generally, it takes about 90 minutes to cook corned beef on High Pressure, plus time for natural pressure release.

3. Can I make this recipe without an Instant Pot?
You can, but cooking times will differ. Braising the corned beef in a large pot on the stove or in the oven will take about 3-4 hours on low heat.