Are you looking for a new and exciting protein to add to your meal rotation?
Look no further than beef heart!
This often overlooked cut of meat is not only delicious, but also packed with nutrients.
And the best part?
It’s incredibly easy to cook in an Instant Pot!
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a newbie to cooking with beef heart, we’ve got you covered with tips and tricks for getting the perfect tender and flavorful result.
So grab your Instant Pot and let’s get cooking!
How Long To Cook Beef Heart In Instant Pot?
When it comes to cooking beef heart in an Instant Pot, there are a few different methods and cooking times to consider.
One popular method is to cook the beef heart on high pressure for 60-75 minutes, depending on the size of the heart. This method involves adding salt and a cup of broth or water to the Instant Pot, and cooking the heart on its own.
Another option is to cut the beef heart into 1-inch cubes and sauté it in the Instant Pot on “sauté” mode for a couple of minutes before adding bone broth or water and setting it to “slow cook” for 3 hours.
If you’re making beef heart chili, you can cook the heart on high pressure for 4 hours with spices and beef stock, then thicken the sauce on the stove before serving.
Ultimately, the cooking time will depend on your personal preference for doneness and the specific recipe you’re using. It’s always a good idea to use a meat thermometer to ensure that the beef heart has reached a safe internal temperature of at least 145F (63C).
What Is Beef Heart And Why Should You Cook It In An Instant Pot?
Beef heart is a nutrient-dense cut of meat that is often overlooked in modern cuisine. It is a muscle that works hard to pump blood throughout the body, which makes it a lean and flavorful cut of meat.
Beef heart is high in protein, iron, and B vitamins, which makes it a great addition to any diet. It has a rich and intense beef flavor that is similar to steak but with a firmer texture.
Cooking beef heart in an Instant Pot is a great way to keep the meat tender while allowing the collagen and thick muscle to break down. The high-pressure cooking method also helps to infuse the meat with flavor from any added seasonings or broth.
Instant Pot beef heart can be used in a variety of recipes, from stews and chilis to tacos and sandwiches. It is a versatile cut of meat that can be substituted for roast in many recipes.
Preparing Beef Heart For Instant Pot Cooking
Before cooking beef heart in an Instant Pot, it’s important to properly prepare the meat. First, cut the heart into three pieces and remove any fat, arteries, and silver skin. This will help ensure that the heart cooks evenly and results in a tender and delicious final product.
Next, add 4 cups of beef broth to the Instant Pot liner and lay the pieces of beef heart evenly on the bottom of the liner. Add 3 garlic cloves, a bay leaf, and sprinkle the heart with salt and pepper. Cover the beef heart with one sliced onion and a handful of roughly chopped celery.
Lock the lid on the Instant Pot and program it on manual/high pressure for 60-75 minutes, depending on the size of the heart. Allow the pressure to naturally release for 25-30 minutes, then perform a controlled quick release.
Alternatively, if you are sautéing the beef heart cubes first, trim off any harder pieces from the heart cavity and some of the outer fat layer (but leave some tasty fat!). Turn on the Instant Pot in “sauté” mode and add butter and garlic (if desired). Once the pot is hot and butter melts, add the heart meat. Season with salt and your choice of herbs and let it sauté for a couple of minutes, stirring frequently with a wooden spatula.
No matter which method you choose, be sure to follow all safety guidelines when handling raw meat. Clean all surfaces and utensils thoroughly before and after handling beef heart to prevent cross-contamination.
Seasoning And Flavoring Beef Heart In The Instant Pot
Seasoning and flavoring beef heart in the Instant Pot can be a fun and creative process. While beef heart has a similar flavor to steak, it can also be quite gamey, which may not appeal to everyone. Luckily, there are many ways to season and flavor beef heart to suit your taste preferences.
One simple option is to use salt, pepper, and garlic powder to season the beef heart before cooking it in the Instant Pot. This will give it a classic and savory flavor that pairs well with many different dishes. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices, such as cumin, paprika, oregano, or rosemary, to add more depth and complexity to the flavor profile.
If you prefer a sweeter taste, you can add some brown sugar or honey to the beef heart before cooking. This will create a caramelized and slightly sweet flavor that pairs well with roasted vegetables or rice.
For a spicier kick, you can use chili powder, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce to season the beef heart. This will give it a bold and fiery flavor that pairs well with Mexican or Asian-inspired dishes.
Another option is to marinate the beef heart before cooking it in the Instant Pot. You can use a simple marinade of olive oil, vinegar, and herbs, or experiment with different flavors by adding soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, or balsamic vinegar.
Cooking Beef Heart In The Instant Pot: Step-by-Step Instructions
If you’re ready to cook beef heart in your Instant Pot, here are step-by-step instructions to follow:
1. Start by cleaning and trimming the beef heart as desired. Cut it into 1-inch cubes using a sharp knife, and remove any hard pieces from the heart cavity. You can also trim some of the outer fat layer off if desired, but leave some for added flavor.
2. Turn on the Instant Pot in “sauté” mode and add butter and garlic if desired. Once the pot is hot and the butter melts, add the beef heart cubes. Season with salt and any herbs of your choice, and let the meat sauté for a couple of minutes, stirring frequently with a wooden spatula.
3. Add bone broth or water to the Instant Pot, and stir to combine. Turn off the “sauté” mode and set the Instant Pot to “slow cook” on normal setting for 3 hours.
4. After 3 hours, you can add your choice of vegetables such as sweet potatoes, carrots or potatoes. If you choose to do so, turn off the Instant Pot, open the lid, combine the cubed vegetables in the pot with the meat, and turn on the Instant Pot to “pressure cook” for as long as the vegetables require (about 15 minutes should be enough for most). If you prefer not to add vegetables, skip this step.
5. Once the meat and vegetables (if added) are cooked, open the Instant Pot and turn it back on to “sauté” mode for about 10 minutes or until the stew sauce has thickened enough. Stir frequently with a wooden spatula.
6. Serve your beef heart stew warm and garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Remember that cooking times may vary depending on your specific recipe and personal preferences. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure that your beef heart has reached a safe internal temperature before serving. With these simple steps, you’ll be able to enjoy a delicious and nutritious meal using beef heart in your Instant Pot.
Quick Release Vs. Natural Release: Which Is Best For Beef Heart?
When it comes to releasing pressure from your Instant Pot after cooking beef heart, the question of whether to use quick release or natural release arises.
Quick release is a good option if you want to stop the cooking process immediately and prevent overcooking of your beef heart. This is especially useful if you’re cooking seafood, fruits, and vegetables that can easily end up overcooked during a more gradual release of pressure. Additionally, quick release is faster than natural release, which can save you time in the kitchen.
However, if you’re looking for tender and flavorful beef heart, natural release is the way to go. Natural release allows the meat fibers to relax and settle back into the meat, which makes it tender and juicy. This is especially important for large cuts of meat like beef heart. When you do a quick release, the pressure drops rapidly, causing the meat fibers to compress and squeeze out fats and juices, which can leave the meat tough and dry.
Serving And Enjoying Beef Heart: Recipe Ideas And Tips
Now that you have cooked your beef heart in the Instant Pot, it’s time to serve and enjoy it! Here are some recipe ideas and tips to help you make the most out of this unique cut of meat:
1. Beef Heart Stew: Try this tender and flavorful stew recipe from Vered DeLeeuw. Serve it on a bed of mashed cauliflower with a side of roasted brussel sprouts for a nutritious and delicious meal.
2. Steak-Style Beef Heart: This is a simple and delicious way to enjoy beef heart. Clean and prepare the heart, slice it into steak-size pieces, season it generously with salt and pepper, then cook it on high heat for about 3 minutes on each side. Baste in compound butter if desired, and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.
3. Beef Heart Strips: For a crisp and flavorful dish, pan-fry beef heart strips in a cast iron skillet with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Sear each side for 1-2 minutes, then let the meat rest before serving.
4. Beef Heart Soup: Beef heart can also be used to make a hearty soup. Simply slow-cook the heart with vegetables and broth for several hours until tender, then serve hot.
5. Pickled Beef Heart: If you’re feeling adventurous, try Amy Vanderbilt’s recipe for pickled beef heart from her 1961 cookbook. Simmer the heart with spices and vinegar, then chill it in the refrigerator before serving with a piquant sauce.
No matter how you choose to serve your beef heart, be sure to slice it thinly against the grain to prevent toughness. And don’t forget to season generously with salt and pepper for maximum flavor!
