Instant Pot Beef Bourguignon

Essential Ingredients:

• Beef Chuck or Stew Meat: Opt for well-marbled cuts to ensure tenderness.
• Red Wine: Use a full-bodied wine like Burgundy or Pinot Noir for authentic flavor.
• Beef Broth: Enhances the dish’s rich base.
• Pearl Onions: Their sweetness balances the savory profile.
• Carrots and Celery: Adds natural sweetness and texture.
• Mushrooms: Cremini or baby Bella mushrooms work best.
• Garlic and Onions: Provide the aromatic foundation.
• Tomato Paste: For a concentrated umami flavor.
• Herbs: Thyme, bay leaves, and parsley for earthy notes.
• Olive Oil or Butter: For sautéing.

Key Tips:

• Always use fresh herbs for the best aroma.
• Choose wine you enjoy drinking; its flavor will dominate the dish.
• Avoid pre-cut vegetables, as they may lack freshness.

Steps for Preparation:

1. Check the Inner Pot: Ensure it’s clean and dry to prevent sticking.
2. Gather Ingredients: Chop vegetables, portion the beef, and measure liquids ahead of time.
3. Use the Sauté Function: Preheat your Instant Pot for even browning of the meat.
4. Deglaze Properly: After browning, deglaze the pot with red wine or broth to avoid burn warnings.
5. Pressure Settings: Familiarize yourself with high-pressure settings for stews.

Additional Tips:

• Avoid overfilling; stay below the maximum fill line.
• Always keep the Instant Pot manual handy for troubleshooting.

1. Sauté the Beef

Properly preparing the beef sets the foundation for a rich and flavorful stew.

• Dry the Beef: Pat the beef dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This step is critical for achieving a good sear, as moisture causes the meat to steam instead of brown.
• Preheat the Instant Pot: Activate the Sauté function and let the pot preheat for 2-3 minutes. A hot surface is essential for caramelization.
• Sear in Batches: Add a single layer of beef cubes, avoiding overcrowding. Overcrowding reduces the pot’s heat, leading to uneven browning. Sear each side for 2-3 minutes until a golden crust forms.
• Remove Beef: Transfer the seared beef to a plate and set aside. Repeat the process for all remaining meat.

2. Sauté Aromatics

Building the aromatic base is key to layering flavors.

• Add Onions and Garlic: Add diced onions to the hot pot and stir frequently. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onions become soft and translucent.
• Deglaze with Liquid if Necessary: If the pot appears dry, add a small splash of red wine or broth to loosen any stuck-on bits while stirring.
• Add Garlic Last: Stir in minced garlic during the final minute to prevent burning, which can make the dish taste bitter.

3. Deglaze the Pot

Deglazing is a crucial step to prevent the burn warning on your Instant Pot and to incorporate deep, rich flavors.

• Pour in the Red Wine: Slowly add the wine while stirring. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to scrape up the browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pot. These caramelized bits, called fond, add a robust flavor to the stew.
• Reduce the Wine: Allow the wine to simmer for 3-5 minutes, reducing by about half. This concentrates its flavors and removes the raw alcohol taste.

4. Add Ingredients

Once the pot is deglazed and aromatic, it’s time to build the stew.

• Return the Beef: Place the seared beef back into the Instant Pot, evenly distributing it across the bottom.
• Add Vegetables: Layer the carrots, celery, mushrooms, and pearl onions over the beef. This layering helps maintain the texture of the vegetables during cooking.
• Incorporate Tomato Paste: Stir in tomato paste for an extra layer of umami, blending it evenly with the ingredients.
• Add Herbs: Toss in thyme sprigs, bay leaves, and parsley for a fresh, earthy aroma.
• Pour in Broth: Finally, add the beef broth. Ensure all ingredients are just submerged, but avoid exceeding the pot’s maximum fill line.

5. Pressure Cook

Cooking under pressure transforms tough beef cuts into tender, flavorful bites.

• Secure the Lid: Lock the Instant Pot lid in place and set the valve to the sealing position.
• Set to High Pressure: Select the pressure cook function and set it to high pressure for 35 minutes.
• Natural Pressure Release: Once cooking is complete, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes. This gradual release allows the flavors to meld and prevents overcooked vegetables.
• Quick Release Remaining Pressure: After 10 minutes, carefully turn the valve to the venting position to release any remaining pressure.

6. Thicken the Sauce

A rich, velvety sauce is the hallmark of Instant Pot Beef Bourguignon.

• Switch to Sauté Mode: After releasing the pressure, remove the lid and switch the pot back to Sauté mode.
• Prepare the Slurry: Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch (or arrowroot powder for a gluten-free option) with 2 tablespoons of water until smooth.
• Stir and Simmer: Gradually stir the slurry into the pot. Let the stew simmer for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens to your liking.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce and add salt and pepper as needed. Fresh parsley can also be stirred in for a burst of color and flavor.

While the classic recipe is a masterpiece, you can personalize Instant Pot Beef Bourguignon to suit your taste or dietary preferences.

Creative Variations:

1. Vegetarian Bourguignon:
   • Replace beef with hearty vegetables like sweet potatoes and turnips.
   • Substitute red wine with vegetable broth.
2. Low-Carb Version:
   • Omit potatoes or starchy vegetables.
   • Add zucchini or cauliflower for texture.
3. Gluten-Free:
   • Use gluten-free beef broth and wine.
   • Thicken with arrowroot powder instead of cornstarch.
4. Spicy Twist:
   • Incorporate a pinch of red chili flakes or smoked paprika for heat.

Pro Tip:

Experiment with seasonings and spices to create your signature version of this dish.

Pairing Instant Pot Beef Bourguignon with the right sides elevates the meal to restaurant quality. The key is to complement the rich, savory flavors.

Perfect Side Dishes:

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes absorb the flavorful sauce.
• Crusty French Bread: Ideal for soaking up every drop.
• Rice or Quinoa: Adds a neutral base to balance the stew.
• Steamed Green Beans: Brings a refreshing crunch and color.
• Buttered Noodles: A classic pairing for heartier servings.

Beverage Pairing:

• A robust red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah complements the dish beautifully.
• For non-alcoholic options, try a rich grape juice or sparkling water with lime.

Even the best recipes can falter with a few missteps. Avoid these common mistakes to ensure your Instant Pot Beef Bourguignon turns out perfectly every time.

1. Using Cheap Wine

• Low-quality wine can overpower the dish with sour or metallic notes. Stick to mid-range wines you enjoy drinking.

2. Skipping the Sear

• Browning the beef is crucial for depth of flavor. Don’t rush this step.

3. Overcrowding the Pot

• Cook in batches if necessary. Overcrowding prevents even browning.

4. Ignoring Burn Warnings

• Always deglaze the pot thoroughly to prevent the burn message.

5. Rushing Pressure Release

• Allowing a natural release ensures tender beef and a well-blended sauce.

For those with a packed schedule, making Instant Pot Beef Bourguignon can feel daunting, but these tips will simplify the process.

• Prep Ingredients in Advance: Chop vegetables and portion the meat the night before to save time on busy days.
• Use Pre-Measured Herbs and Spices: Store measured seasonings in small containers for quick access.
• Sear in Batches: While it might take a few extra minutes, searing beef in smaller batches ensures an even crust, which significantly enhances the flavor.
• Leverage the Delay Start Feature: Some Instant Pot models allow delayed cooking, perfect for having your meal ready when you need it.
• Thicken After Cooking: Skip pre-mixing thickeners like cornstarch. Instead, use the Sauté function at the end for a quick thickening process.

Using these time-saving strategies, you can enjoy a flavorful, hearty dish with minimal effort.

Instant Pot Beef Bourguignon is not only a delicious choice but also offers a balanced nutritional profile.

Key Nutritional Highlights:

• Protein-Rich: Beef provides high-quality protein for muscle repair and growth.
• Low in Carbs: With fewer starchy components, it’s a great option for low-carb diets.
• Vitamin-Packed: Vegetables like carrots and mushrooms deliver vitamins A, C, and B-complex, essential for overall health.
• Iron and Zinc: Beef is an excellent source of iron for energy production and zinc for immune function.
• Low Sodium Options: Opt for low-sodium broth to reduce sodium levels without sacrificing flavor.

For a healthier version, consider substituting some beef with leaner cuts or using extra vegetables.

The Instant Pot transforms complex dishes like Beef Bourguignon into quick, foolproof meals.

Why Choose an Instant Pot?

• Time Efficiency: Cuts down cooking time by up to 70% compared to traditional methods.
• One-Pot Convenience: Sauté, pressure cook, and simmer all in one appliance, reducing clean-up time.
• Consistent Results: Maintains even pressure and heat for perfectly tender meat every time.
• Energy Efficiency: Consumes less energy compared to ovens or stovetops.
• Versatility: Allows for adaptations like gluten-free, vegetarian, or low-sodium versions effortlessly.

For busy households, the Instant Pot is an indispensable kitchen companion.

Beef Bourguignon is more than just a meal—it’s a symbol of French culinary artistry. Originating in the Burgundy region of France, this dish reflects a tradition of slow-cooking tough cuts of meat into tender, flavorful stews.

In French culture, it is often associated with warmth, family gatherings, and regional pride. Julia Child popularized the dish internationally, making it a global emblem of French cuisine. Today, Instant Pot Beef Bourguignon allows home cooks to honor this heritage while modernizing the preparation process.

Even seasoned cooks can face challenges with Instant Pot Beef Bourguignon. Here’s how to fix them:

• Burn Message: Ensure proper deglazing after sautéing to prevent stuck food triggering the warning.
• Thin Sauce: Thicken with a slurry of cornstarch and water on the Sauté setting post-cooking.
• Overcooked Vegetables: Add delicate vegetables like mushrooms or pearl onions halfway through cooking to preserve their texture.
• Bland Flavor: Always season in layers, tasting as you go, and use fresh herbs for aromatic depth.

By addressing these issues, you can consistently achieve a flawless result.

Elevate your Instant Pot Beef Bourguignon with these expert tips:

• Marinate the Meat: For enhanced flavor, marinate beef in red wine and garlic overnight.
• Layer Ingredients: Place denser ingredients like carrots on the bottom to cook evenly.
• Season Gradually: Start with minimal salt and adjust post-cooking as the flavors intensify.
• Use Quality Wine: Avoid cooking wines and choose a bottle you’d drink with the meal.
• Natural Release for Best Texture: Allowing a natural pressure release helps prevent overcooking and ensures tender meat.

These tips can take your dish from great to exceptional.