Melt-in-your-mouth Instant Pot Korean Beef Recipe

Welcome to my instant pot Korean beef recipe! If you’re looking for a meal that is packed with bold flavors and can be prepared in just a fraction of the time, then this recipe is perfect for you. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply want to spice up your weeknight dinners, this dish is guaranteed to impress.

Korean cuisine is known for its unique blend of spices, and this dish doesn’t disappoint. With ingredients like garlic, ginger and soy sauce, every bite is packed with savory goodness. The instant pot allows us to lock in all these flavors while reducing cooking time by 50%.

This recipe is created for busy cooks who still want delicious and healthy meals but do not have the extra time to spend in the kitchen. It will yield tender beef that falls apart and an equally flavorful broth that will make you slurp it all up!

So let’s start cooking! Don’t worry if you’re new to using an instant pot pressure cooker because I’ve got you covered with step-by-step instructions. Let the aroma fill your house and enjoy the yum yum taste of your Korean beef stew.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Instant Pot Korean Beef
Instant Pot Korean Beef

Are you searching for a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that showcases the unique flavors of Korean cuisine? Look no further than this Instant Pot Korean Beef Recipe!

Why Instant Pot? Because it saves time and effort while delivering perfectly tender and juicy meat. This pressure cooker is ideal for beef recipes that need extra time to break down the muscle fibers and turn tough cuts of beef, such as chuck or blade steak, into mouthwatering morsels.

But why this specific recipe? For starters, it’s an efficient one-pot meal that requires minimal cleanup, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Additionally, the combination of savory soy sauce, sweet brown sugar, and spicy red pepper flakes creates a well-balanced taste that will leave your taste buds craving for more.

The ingredients list is simple enough to find in any grocery store, and with nine steps, including prep time, you can whip up a delicious Korean Beef Stew in no time. Each bite is guaranteed to be packed full of flavor.

Plus, if you’re looking for options to jazz up traditional ground beef tacos or even short ribs, korean beef stew recipe will do the trick – yum yum!

Don’t wait until you’re at your local Korean restaurant to enjoy authentic cuisine. Try this recipe now and enjoy an unforgettable dining experience from the comfort of your own home.

Ingredient List

 Dive into the flavors of Korean cuisine with this delicious Instant Pot Korean beef.
Dive into the flavors of Korean cuisine with this delicious Instant Pot Korean beef.

Here are the ingredients you will need for this Instant Pot Korean Beef recipe:

Meat

  • 1 pound lean ground beef
  • 1.5 pounds chuck blade steak or beef stew meat, cut into thin bite-sized pieces
  • 1 pound beef short ribs (optional)

Sauce

  • 1/2 cup reduced sodium soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon ground ginger
  • 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (based on preference)

Other Ingredients

  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 3 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Note: you can find most of these ingredients in your local grocery store. If you don’t have an Instant Pot, you can use a regular pressure cooker.

Now let’s start cooking!

The Recipe How-To

 Sweet, savory and full of umami, this dish is a flavor explosion that you won't forget anytime soon.
Sweet, savory and full of umami, this dish is a flavor explosion that you won’t forget anytime soon.

Now that we have gone over the ingredient list let’s move on to the main dish! One thing I love about using an Instant Pot is its convenience. So let’s get started with our Instant Pot Korean Beef Recipe.

Step 1: Sauté Mode

Firstly, on your Instant Pot, press the Sauté mode and add 1 tablespoon of sesame oil. Once heated up, add in 3 cloves of minced garlic and 1 teaspoon of minced ginger. Cook until fragrant, then add in 1 pound of lean ground beef. Break up the beef as it cooks until no longer pink, for about 5-7 minutes.

Step 2: Adding the Sauce

Now, it’s time to add the sauce. Add ⅓ cup reduced-sodium soy sauce, ½ cup brown sugar, and ½-1 tablespoon crushed red pepper flakes (depending on how spicy you like it). Give it a quick stir just to make sure everything is well combined.

Step 3: Cooking Mode

Close the lid and turn the valve to sealing position. Using manual mode, set Instant Pot on high pressure for 10 minutes.

Step 4: Natural Release

Once done, let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before doing a quick release on the remaining pressure.

Step 5: Thickening Your Sauce

Turn your Instant Pot onto sauté mode again then add in 2 tablespoons of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of water. Stir well to combine all the ingredients together and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until your sauce thickens.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Finally, serve your delicious Instant pot Korean beef over steamed rice! Top with some freshly sliced green onions and enjoy!

That’s it! You have made a fantastic meal incorporating incredible Korean flavors with minimal effort. In less than 30 minutes, you’ll have delicious and tender Korean beef to pair alongside your steamed rice!

Substitutions and Variations

 The Instant Pot does all the hard work for you, making Korean beef easier than ever before.
The Instant Pot does all the hard work for you, making Korean beef easier than ever before.

One of the best things about cooking is that it can be tailored to fit individual preferences and dietary needs, and this Instant Pot Korean Beef recipe is no exception. Here are some ideas for substitutions and variations:

– Ground chicken or turkey: If you prefer not to use beef, ground chicken or turkey can be substituted for a lighter alternative. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.

– Vegetarian-friendly: For a vegetarian option, try using crumbled tofu or cooked lentils instead of meat. You can also add in vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra flavor and texture.

– Gluten-free: This recipe is already gluten-free if you use reduced-sodium tamari instead of soy sauce, but if you need to avoid cornstarch as well, you can use potato starch or arrowroot powder as a thickener.

– Spicier: If you like heat, add more crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeño peppers. You can also use gochugaru (Korean chili flakes) for an authentic kick.

– Sweeter: If you prefer your Korean beef on the sweeter side, increase the amount of brown sugar in the recipe. You can also add honey or agave syrup for a natural sweetener.

– With rice: For a complete meal, serve the Korean beef over steamed rice. You can also mix in some scrambled eggs for a Korean-style bibimbap.

With these substitutions and variations, you can customize the Instant Pot Korean Beef recipe to your liking and make it your own. Experiment with different ingredients and flavors to find what works best for you. Yum yum!

Serving and Pairing

 Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prepping, this recipe can easily be doubled or tripled to feed a crowd.
Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prepping, this recipe can easily be doubled or tripled to feed a crowd.

This Instant Pot Korean Beef recipe is a flavorful and filling dish that can be served on its own or paired with a variety of sides. Here are some serving and pairing suggestions to help you make the most of this delicious recipe.

Serving Suggestions:

– Serve the korean beef over steamed rice for a classic meal that’s sure to please.

– Add some thinly sliced green onions as garnish for an extra pop of flavor and color.

– Top the beef with some crushed red pepper flakes to add some heat for those who like it spicy.

– Use the beef as a filling for tacos or lettuce wraps for a fun twist on traditional korean beef.

Pairing Suggestions:

– This dish pairs well with a light salad or coleslaw, as the acidity of the vegetables helps cut through the rich, savory flavors of the beef.

– For a more substantial pairing, consider serving the beef alongside roasted vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, or cauliflower.

– If you’re in the mood for soup, serve the korean beef alongside a bowl of miso soup or tom yum soup for a cozy meal that’s perfect for cold weather.

No matter how you choose to serve and pair this Instant Pot Korean Beef, one thing is certain: your taste buds are in for a treat. So go ahead and experiment with different combinations until you find your favorite way to enjoy this delicious dish.

Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating

 If you love bold, spicy flavors, this dish is for you! You can customize the heat to your liking.
If you love bold, spicy flavors, this dish is for you! You can customize the heat to your liking.

This Instant Pot Korean Beef recipe is perfect for meal prepping on a lazy weekend afternoon. It’s easy to make large batches of the stew and store them in the refrigerator or freezer for days or even weeks. To store the beef stew, let it cool to room temperature first before transferring it into an airtight container. For longer storage, you can use freezer bags and remove any excess air before freezing.

Reheating this delicious korean beef stew is just as simple. If you’re using the refrigerator to store the beef, simply reheat it in a pan over medium heat. Make sure to stir occasionally, so that it heats up evenly and doesn’t burn on the bottom.

If you’re reheating from frozen, allow the bag of beef stew to thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, reheat following the same instructions as above but add a splash of water or beef broth to maintain its consistency.

One of my favourite ways to repurpose leftover Instant Pot Korean Beef is by turning them into ground beef tacos. It’s a great way to breathe some new life into your leftovers! Simply cook up some taco shells or tortillas and load them up with your leftover Korean beef and some fresh green onions.

This dish will taste even better after being reheated- sometimes with stews like these, an extra day gives nice depth to the flavors. So be sure to save some leftovers for lunch the next day!

Tips for Perfect Results

 Try this Korean beef on a bed of rice or even in lettuce wraps for a lighter option
Try this Korean beef on a bed of rice or even in lettuce wraps for a lighter option

Making a dish as complex and flavorful as Korean beef may seem daunting, especially when cooking with an Instant Pot. To make things easier, here are some tips that will help you achieve excellent results every time you make it:

1. Choose the right cut of meat

While this recipe calls for lean ground beef, you can experiment with other cuts such as chuck blade steak, short ribs and stewing beef. Make sure to select cuts that are tender and will break down nicely in the Instant Pot.

2. Be mindful of the amount of liquid

Korean beef needs liquid to cook properly in the Instant Pot – but not too much. Adding too much liquid will dilute the flavors and result in a soupy texture. Measure your broth and soy sauce carefully and refer to the recipe instruction for the exact amount needed.

3. Make sure to brown your beef before cooking

Browning your beef before pressure cooking it brings out its flavor and helps seal in moisture. It also provides a texture that stands up well to all the bold flavors of Korean beef.

4. Use fresh herbs

Green onions add brightness to this dish but are often underutilized or neglected. Be sure to include them in your recipe!

5. Add red pepper flakes based on your spice preference

The spicy kick from crushed red pepper flakes really makes Korean beef come alive; however, it’s easy to go overboard with the heat if you’re not careful. Start with a small amount of red pepper flakes, then adjust to taste as needed.

6. Give it extra time

It’s all about cooking the dish long enough so that the meat becomes tender, juicy and full of flavor without being tough. Give the dish plenty of time in the Instant Pot so that it becomes an unforgettable meal.

Follow these tips, and your Instant Pot Korean Beef will definitely be a hit at your next dinner party or family gathering!

FAQ

Now that you know how to make the Instant Pot Korean Beef recipe effortlessly, let’s cover some frequently asked questions (FAQ) so that you can prepare it like a pro. Here are the answers to some commonly asked questions about this delicious recipe.

Why is my Instant Pot beef so tough?

Sometimes, even after cooking the pot roast, it may still seem tough. In such cases, it’s important to remember that it just needs a little more time for the braise to work its magic and break down the connective tissues in the beef. So, the solution is to keep cooking it until it becomes tender and succulent.

Does beef get tender in Instant Pot?

Achieving tender beef tips requires the perfect amount of cook time. The fat and cartilage in the meat need ample time to break down, resulting in optimal tenderness. In order to achieve this, it is recommended to cook the steak cubes for 20 to 30 minutes, though be mindful of the size you cut them. Additionally, this pressure cooker beef tips recipe yields a delectable, savory gravy that is sure to please.

Why is my Instant Pot roast beef not tender?

Sometimes a roast can turn out tough when cooked in an Instant Pot. In such cases, it is necessary to extend the cooking time. Chuck roast, especially, tends to become tender with increased cooking time. However, it is crucial to exercise caution, as overcooking can lead to undesired results. Keep a watchful eye if you decide to increase the cooking time in an Instant Pot.

What is the best cut of beef to use in an Instant Pot?

When it comes to cooking beef in a multi-cooker, it’s best to choose cuts from the chuck and round. These cuts usually take a long time to prepare through braising and roasting methods, but with a pressure cooker or Instant Pot, you can cook them in a fraction of the time.

Bottom Line

In conclusion, this Instant Pot Korean Beef Recipe is an easy and delicious option for those who love Asian cuisine. With its savory mix of garlic, soy sauce, and crushed red pepper flakes, it’s sure to be a crowd pleaser. The Instant Pot makes it quick and convenient to prepare; no more waiting hours for meat to cook!

Using lean ground beef or beef short rib stew meat makes this dish a healthier choice without sacrificing flavor. Plus, the recipe is versatile enough to customize with different substitutions and variations to suit your tastes.

Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or a special occasion, this Korean beef recipe will impress. Serve over rice or in tacos for a fun twist on traditional beef dishes.

So why not take a chance and try cooking Korean beef in your Instant Pot today? I guarantee that with these tips and tricks, you’ll have tender and juicy beef every time! Trust me – the end result will make you say “yum yum!”

Instant Pot Korean Beef

Instant Pot Korean Beef Recipe

From http://recipesforinstantpot.com/korean-beef-in-instant-pot/.
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Prep Time 10 mins
Cook Time 5 mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine Korean
Calories 281.8 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 teaspoons sesame oil
  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup reduced sodium soy sauce
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
  • 1 green onion, thinly sliced (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Turn on Instant Pot to saute. Heat until it says "HOT".
  • Add the sesame oil.
  • Once the oil is hot, add the ground beef and garlic, stirring until the beef is mostly cooked.
  • Add the brown sugar, soy sauce, ground ginger and crushed red pepper flakes; mix well.
  • Turn off the Instant Pot, then lock on the lid.
  • Cook for 5 minutes on manual, then let the pressure release naturally.
  • Serve over rice with green onions on top.

Add Your Own Notes

Nutrition

Serving: 150gCalories: 281.8kcalCarbohydrates: 15.2gProtein: 23.6gFat: 13.6gSaturated Fat: 4.9gCholesterol: 73.7mgSodium: 610.1mgFiber: 0.2gSugar: 13.6g
Keyword < 15 Mins, High In..., High Protein, Meat
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