Corned beef, a staple of many cuisines, is a delicious and tender cut of beef that’s perfect for slow cooking. With the rise of Instant Pots and other pressure cookers, it’s easier than ever to achieve fall-apart, melt-in-your-mouth corned beef at home. But how long should you slow cook corned beef in your Instant Pot? In this article, we’ll explore the ins and outs of slow cooking corned beef, including cooking times, methods, and tips for achieving the perfect dish.
Understanding Corned Beef
Before we dive into cooking times, it’s essential to understand what corned beef is and how it’s prepared. Corned beef is a type of beef that’s been cured in a seasoned brine solution, typically containing salt, sugar, and spices. The curing process gives corned beef its distinctive flavor and tender texture. Corned beef can be found in most supermarkets, usually in the form of a flat cut or a round cut.
Types of Corned Beef
There are several types of corned beef available, each with its own unique characteristics. Here are a few common types of corned beef:
- Flat cut corned beef: This is the most common type of corned beef and is characterized by its flat shape and leaner texture.
- Round cut corned beef: This type of corned beef is cut from the round primal and is often more tender and flavorful than flat cut corned beef.
- Point cut corned beef: This type of corned beef is cut from the point end of the brisket and is often more marbled and flavorful than flat cut corned beef.
Cooking Methods for Corned Beef
There are several ways to cook corned beef, including boiling, steaming, and slow cooking. Slow cooking is one of the most popular methods, as it allows for tender and flavorful results with minimal effort. Here are a few common cooking methods for corned beef:
- Boiling: Boiling is a quick and easy way to cook corned beef, but it can result in a less tender and flavorful dish.
- Steaming: Steaming is a healthier alternative to boiling and can result in a more tender and flavorful dish.
- Slow cooking: Slow cooking is a low-and-slow method that involves cooking the corned beef in liquid over a long period. This method is perfect for achieving tender and flavorful results.
Slow Cooking Corned Beef in Your Instant Pot
Slow cooking corned beef in your Instant Pot is a game-changer. The Instant Pot’s pressure cooking function allows for faster cooking times, while the slow cooking function allows for tender and flavorful results. Here’s a basic recipe for slow cooking corned beef in your Instant Pot:
Ingredients:
- 1-2 pounds corned beef
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1 teaspoon pickling spice
Instructions:
- Place the sliced onion at the bottom of the Instant Pot.
- Add the corned beef, garlic, beef broth, brown sugar, mustard seeds, and pickling spice.
- Close the lid and set the valve to “sealing”.
- Press the “meat/stew” button or “manual” mode and set the cooking time to 90 minutes.
- Let the pressure release naturally for 10-15 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
Cooking Times for Corned Beef in Your Instant Pot
Cooking times for corned beef in your Instant Pot will vary depending on the size and type of corned beef, as well as your personal preference for tenderness. Here are some general guidelines for cooking times:
- 1-2 pounds flat cut corned beef: 90-120 minutes
- 1-2 pounds round cut corned beef: 120-150 minutes
- 1-2 pounds point cut corned beef: 150-180 minutes
Tips for Achieving the Perfect Corned Beef
Achieving the perfect corned beef requires a few tips and tricks. Here are some tips to help you achieve tender and flavorful results:
- Use a meat thermometer: A meat thermometer will help you ensure that your corned beef is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 160°F.
- Don’t overcook: Overcooking can result in a tough and dry corned beef. Use the cooking times above as a guideline, but check the corned beef regularly to avoid overcooking.
- Use aromatics: Aromatics like onion, garlic, and spices will add flavor to your corned beef. Experiment with different aromatics to find your favorite combination.
- Let it rest: Letting the corned beef rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing will help the juices redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are some common mistakes to avoid when slow cooking corned beef in your Instant Pot:
- Not using enough liquid: Not using enough liquid can result in a dry and tough corned beef. Make sure to use at least 1 cup of liquid for every 1-2 pounds of corned beef.
- Not cooking it long enough: Not cooking the corned beef long enough can result in a tough and undercooked dish. Use the cooking times above as a guideline, but check the corned beef regularly to ensure it’s cooked to your liking.
- Not letting it rest: Not letting the corned beef rest can result in a less tender and flavorful dish. Let the corned beef rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
Conclusion
Slow cooking corned beef in your Instant Pot is a game-changer. With the right cooking times and techniques, you can achieve tender and flavorful results with minimal effort. Remember to use aromatics, don’t overcook, and let the corned beef rest to achieve the perfect dish. Experiment with different types of corned beef and cooking times to find your favorite combination. Happy cooking!
What is the ideal cut of beef for making corned beef in an Instant Pot?
The ideal cut of beef for making corned beef in an Instant Pot is a tougher cut, such as a flat cut or a point cut. These cuts come from the brisket or round areas of the cow and are perfect for slow cooking. They have a lot of connective tissue, which breaks down during the cooking process, resulting in tender and flavorful corned beef.
When selecting a cut of beef, look for one that is labeled as “corned beef” or “beef brisket.” You can also ask your butcher to recommend a cut that is suitable for slow cooking. Avoid using lean cuts of beef, such as sirloin or ribeye, as they can become dry and tough during the cooking process.
How long does it take to cook corned beef in an Instant Pot?
The cooking time for corned beef in an Instant Pot will depend on the size and type of cut you are using. Generally, a 2-3 pound cut of corned beef will take around 90-120 minutes to cook. However, this time can vary depending on the specific cut and your personal preference for tenderness.
It’s also important to note that the Instant Pot will take some time to come to pressure before the cooking time begins. This can add an additional 10-15 minutes to the overall cooking time. Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10-15 minutes before opening the lid and checking the corned beef for tenderness.
Can I cook corned beef in an Instant Pot from frozen?
Yes, you can cook corned beef in an Instant Pot from frozen. However, you will need to adjust the cooking time accordingly. A frozen cut of corned beef will take around 30-40% longer to cook than a thawed cut. So, if a thawed cut takes 90 minutes to cook, a frozen cut will take around 120-140 minutes.
When cooking a frozen cut of corned beef, make sure to add a little extra liquid to the Instant Pot to ensure that the meat is covered. You can use beef broth or water, and add some aromatics such as onion and carrot for extra flavor.
How do I prevent corned beef from becoming too salty?
Corned beef can be quite salty, especially if you are using a store-bought cut that has been pre-cured. To prevent the corned beef from becoming too salty, you can soak it in water or milk for a few hours before cooking. This will help to remove some of the excess salt from the meat.
Another way to reduce the saltiness of corned beef is to use a low-sodium broth or water when cooking it. You can also add some potatoes or carrots to the Instant Pot, which will absorb some of the excess salt from the meat.
Can I add flavorings to the corned beef while it’s cooking?
Yes, you can add flavorings to the corned beef while it’s cooking in the Instant Pot. Some popular flavorings include onion, carrot, celery, and mustard seeds. You can also add some pickling spices, such as coriander and dill, for extra flavor.
When adding flavorings, make sure to add them to the Instant Pot before closing the lid. This will allow the flavors to penetrate the meat as it cooks. You can also add some flavorings to the broth or water before cooking, such as beef broth or beer, for extra depth of flavor.
How do I slice corned beef after it’s cooked?
After the corned beef is cooked, it’s best to let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This will allow the juices to redistribute and the meat to relax, making it easier to slice. When slicing, use a sharp knife and slice the corned beef against the grain.
To slice the corned beef against the grain, look for the lines of muscle that run through the meat. Slice the meat in the direction perpendicular to these lines. This will result in tender and easy-to-chew slices of corned beef.
Can I store leftover corned beef in the fridge or freezer?
Yes, you can store leftover corned beef in the fridge or freezer. If you plan to use the corned beef within a few days, you can store it in the fridge. Wrap the corned beef tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it refrigerated at a temperature of 40°F (4°C) or below.
If you don’t plan to use the corned beef within a few days, you can store it in the freezer. Wrap the corned beef tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag. Label the bag with the date and contents, and store it in the freezer at 0°F (-18°C) or below. Frozen corned beef will keep for several months.