Are you tired of waiting for your beef tips to thaw before cooking them? Look no further than your Instant Pot!
With this handy kitchen appliance, you can cook frozen beef tips to perfection in no time. Whether you’re a busy parent or just looking for a quick and easy dinner option, this method is sure to become a go-to in your recipe arsenal.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps to cook frozen beef tips in your Instant Pot, including tips and tricks for getting the best results. So grab your pressure cooker and let’s get started!
How To Cook Frozen Beef Tips In Instant Pot?
Step 1: Prepare the Beef Tips
First, unwrap your frozen beef tips and place them in your Instant Pot. You won’t be able to brown the meat as you normally would, but that’s okay.
Next, whisk together 2 packets of dry gravy mix with 1 cup of beef broth in a separate bowl. Pour this mixture over the beef tips in the Instant Pot.
Step 2: Pressure Cook
Seal the lid and steam valve on your Instant Pot and set it to high pressure for 25 minutes. Allow for a 10-minute natural release before quick-releasing the remaining pressure.
Once the pressure has been released, break up the beef tips so they are submerged in the liquid below. Add garlic salt and pepper, stir, and if you want a thicker gravy, take out some of the hot liquid and whisk it with the last gravy packet. Pour this mixture back into the Instant Pot.
Step 3: Pressure Cook Again
Seal the lid and steam valve again and set it to high pressure for another 35 minutes. Allow for a 10-minute natural release before releasing the remaining pressure.
Remove the lid and serve your tender beef tips over rice or mashed potatoes. You can also add large chunks of carrots or small whole potatoes and frozen peas during the second pressure cooking step if desired.
Why Cook Frozen Beef Tips In An Instant Pot?
Cooking frozen beef tips in an Instant Pot has become increasingly popular due to its convenience and safety. Unlike defrosting beef tips for an hour or more and risking the meat getting bacteria by doing so, cooking from frozen can actually be safer. This method also saves time, as you don’t have to wait for the meat to defrost before cooking it.
Another advantage of cooking frozen beef tips in an Instant Pot is that it results in a tender and juicy texture. The high pressure and steam created inside the Instant Pot penetrate the meat, breaking down its fibers and making it more tender.
Additionally, cooking frozen beef tips in an Instant Pot allows you to add other ingredients such as vegetables during the second pressure cooking step. This means you can have a complete meal cooked in one pot, saving you time and effort.
Preparing Your Frozen Beef Tips For Cooking
Before cooking your frozen beef tips in the Instant Pot, it is important to properly prepare them. If you have purchased pre-frozen beef tips, ensure that they have been individually frozen and not frozen together. If they are frozen together, they will not brown evenly during cooking.
To properly freeze your beef tips, place them on a baking sheet and freeze overnight. Make sure there is enough space between each piece so they do not stick together. It is also a good idea to put parchment paper on the baking sheet to prevent sticking and make it easier to transfer the beef tips. Once they are fully frozen, remove them from the baking sheet and store in freezer paper and resealable freezer bags.
When you are ready to cook your beef tips in the Instant Pot, simply remove them from the freezer and place them directly in the pot. Since you will not be able to brown the meat as you normally would, it is important to add flavor by whisking together dry gravy mix with beef broth and pouring it over the beef tips before pressure cooking.
By following these simple steps for preparing your frozen beef tips, you can ensure a delicious and tender meal in no time using your Instant Pot.
Choosing The Right Cooking Liquid
When cooking frozen beef tips in an Instant Pot, it’s important to choose the right cooking liquid. Beef broth is a popular choice because it adds flavor to the meat and helps to tenderize it. You can also use water, but keep in mind that it won’t add any additional flavor to the dish.
If you want to add more depth of flavor to your beef tips, consider using a combination of beef broth and red wine. The wine will add a rich, savory flavor to the meat that complements the beef broth nicely.
Another option is to use a mixture of beef broth and tomato sauce. This will give your beef tips a slightly tangy flavor that pairs well with the richness of the meat.
No matter what cooking liquid you choose, make sure to add enough to cover the beef tips completely. This will help them cook evenly and prevent them from drying out during the cooking process.
Setting The Instant Pot For Cooking Frozen Beef Tips
To cook frozen beef tips in your Instant Pot, you will need to follow a few simple steps. First, add the frozen beef tips to your Instant Pot, along with any other ingredients you want to include in your recipe.
Next, seal the lid and steam valve on your Instant Pot and set it to high pressure for the appropriate amount of time. The cooking time will depend on the size of your beef tips and the recipe you are using, but typically ranges from 25-35 minutes.
Once the cooking time is up, allow for a 10-minute natural release before quick-releasing the remaining pressure. This will ensure that your beef tips are fully cooked and tender.
Finally, remove the lid and serve your delicious beef tips over rice or mashed potatoes. You can also add any desired vegetables during the second pressure cooking step to create a complete meal.
Remember to always follow proper food safety guidelines when cooking with frozen meat, and adjust your cooking time as needed based on the size and thickness of your beef tips. With these simple steps, you can enjoy perfectly cooked and flavorful beef tips straight from your Instant Pot!
Quick Release Vs Natural Release: Which Is Best?
When it comes to releasing the pressure from your Instant Pot, there are two options: quick release and natural release. Quick release involves manually releasing the pressure by turning the steam valve to release the steam. This method is great for when you want to stop the cooking process immediately or if you’re short on time. However, if you’re cooking foamy foods like grains or pasta, quick release can cause a big mess as the foam can spurt out of the pressure release valve. Quick release can also cause meat fibers to compress, squeezing out fats and juices, leaving the meat tough and dry.
On the other hand, natural release allows the cooking process to stop gradually. This method is ideal for longer-cooking foods, large cuts of meat, and foods with skin like potatoes and beans. Natural release is also equivalent to allowing meats to rest after they have been grilled or roasted, which allows the juices to settle into the meat, making it more tender and flavorful. During a natural release, the cooking continues so you need to take that into account when determining your cook time.
In general, it’s best to use natural release when cooking frozen beef tips in Instant Pot. This will allow the meat to relax and be more tender, while also reducing the risk of a messy foam explosion. However, if you’re short on time or following a recipe that calls for quick release, it’s important to reduce the cook time accordingly and be aware that the meat may come out tougher than desired.
Ultimately, whether you choose to use quick release or natural release depends on what you’re cooking and your personal preferences. Just remember to always follow your recipe’s instructions and take caution when releasing pressure from your Instant Pot.
Tips And Tricks For Perfecting Your Instant Pot Beef Tips
If you want to perfect your Instant Pot Beef Tips, here are some tips and tricks to keep in mind:
1. Use the right cut of meat: For the best results, use tougher cuts of beef like sirloin or chuck roast. These cuts are perfect for pressure cooking and will become tender and juicy.
2. Season the meat: Before cooking, season the beef tips with garlic salt, pepper, and any other herbs or spices you like. This will add flavor to the meat and enhance the overall taste of the dish.
3. Brown the meat: While you won’t be able to brown frozen beef tips, it’s important to brown fresh or thawed meat before cooking it in the Instant Pot. This will create a delicious crust on the outside of the meat and add depth to the flavor.
4. Use a gravy mix: To make your beef tips even more flavorful, use a dry gravy mix instead of just water or broth. This will add richness and depth to the sauce.
5. Add vegetables: You can add vegetables like onions, mushrooms, carrots, or peas to your Instant Pot Beef Tips for added nutrition and flavor. Just make sure to adjust your cooking time accordingly.
6. Allow for natural pressure release: If you’re using tougher cuts of meat, it’s important to allow for a natural pressure release after cooking. This will help the meat become more tender and juicy.
7. Thicken the gravy: If you want a thicker gravy, whisk together some cornstarch with hot liquid from the Instant Pot and pour it back into the pot. Let it cook for a few minutes until it thickens up.
By following these tips and tricks, you can make perfect Instant Pot Beef Tips every time!