Ingredients
List of essential ingredients
The list of essential ingredients for an Instant Pot Beef and Vegetable Soup recipe typically includes:
- 1-2 pounds beef, such as chuck or round, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 4-6 cups mixed vegetables, such as carrots, potatoes, onions, celery, and zucchini
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional
2 tablespoons tomato paste, 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for thickening), and/or other herbs or spices of your choice
Note that the quantities and types of ingredients may vary depending on personal preference and dietary needs. This list provides a basic framework for making a delicious and comforting beef and vegetable soup in an Instant Pot.
Beef (1 pound), sliced into thin strips
The first ingredient we are going to use for our Instant Pot Beef and Vegetable Soup recipe is 1 pound of beef, which should be sliced into thin strips. This will allow the meat to cook quickly and evenly in the Instant Pot, resulting in tender and flavorful pieces throughout the soup.
When selecting a cut of beef for this recipe, look for something that is lean and has good marbling, as this will help to add flavor and tenderness to the finished product. Some good options include sirloin, ribeye, or round steak. It’s also a good idea to trim any excess fat from the meat before cutting it into strips, as this will help the soup to cook more efficiently.
Once you have your beef sliced and ready to go, make sure to season it liberally with salt and pepper on both sides. This will help to bring out the natural flavors of the meat and add depth to the finished soup.
In addition to the beef, we will also be using a variety of vegetables in our Instant Pot Beef and Vegetable Soup recipe. These include onions, garlic, carrots, potatoes, and green beans, which will all be added to the pot at different stages throughout the cooking process. Each of these ingredients plays an important role in creating a delicious and satisfying soup, so make sure to use fresh and high-quality versions whenever possible.
Carrots (4 medium), peeled and chopped
The first ingredient to add to our Instant Pot Beef and Vegetable Soup recipe is carrots, a crunchy and sweet root vegetable that will add natural sweetness and texture to the soup.
To prepare the carrots, we will need 4 medium-sized carrots, which can be found in most supermarkets and grocery stores.
Before chopping the carrots, it’s essential to peel them first. This involves removing the outer layer of the carrot using a vegetable peeler or a sharp knife.
Once peeled, hold one of the carrots firmly on a cutting board and use a sharp knife to chop it into smaller pieces. The size of the chopped carrots will depend on your personal preference, but aim for small to medium-sized pieces that will cook evenly in the Instant Pot.
You can either chop the carrots into uniform bite-sized pieces or cut them into larger chunks and then halve or quarter them afterwards. Both methods will produce great results in our recipe.
Onions (2 medium), chopped
For the Instant Pot Beef and Vegetable Soup Recipe, we need to start with the chopped onions as a key ingredient.
Here’s what you’ll need for 2 medium onions:
- Chopping tools (such as a chef’s knife or food chopper)
- Onions – preferably yellow or white, but any variety will do
To chop the onions efficiently:
Peel the Onion
Remove the outer layer of the onion, ensuring it’s clean and free from any visible damage.
Slice the Onion
Using a sharp knife, carefully slice the peeled onion into thin pieces. This can be done either by cutting the onion lengthwise or widthwise, depending on your preference.
Minimize Tear Release
To minimize tear release while chopping the onions, cut them under cold running water or try using a very sharp knife. The cells in the onion that contain irritating enzymes will be severed more cleanly, reducing the amount of gas released into the air.
Finely Chop the Onion
After slicing the onion, place it on a cutting board and finely chop it into smaller pieces using your chopping tool or knife. This step helps distribute the flavors throughout the soup.
The chopped onions are now ready for use in the Instant Pot Beef and Vegetable Soup Recipe.
To proceed with the recipe:
- Heat oil in the Instant Pot on Saute mode until hot.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté for a few minutes, or until it becomes translucent.
This will add an aromatic flavor to the soup and set you up for cooking the beef and other ingredients that follow.
Celery (2 stalks), chopped
Celery is a crunchy and refreshing vegetable that adds depth and freshness to soups, stews, and other savory dishes.
In the context of this Instant Pot Beef and Vegetable Soup Recipe, celery serves as an essential ingredient for enhancing the flavor profile of the soup.
To use celery in this recipe, you will need 2 stalks of celery. These can be trimmed to fit the pot or simply left whole if they fit within the cooking vessel.
Before chopping the celery, it’s a good idea to wash it thoroughly under cold running water, scrubbing off any visible dirt or debris from the leaves and stems.
Cut the celery stalks into manageable pieces, making it easier to chop them finely.
Using a sharp knife or kitchen shears, start chopping the celery into smaller pieces, about 1-2 inches in length. You can also choose to julienne the celery for a more precise cut, depending on your preference.
The goal is to achieve uniform pieces of celery that will cook evenly with the other ingredients in the soup. Be mindful not to over-chop, as this could release too much moisture and create an unappetizing texture.
As you chop the celery, keep it separate from the other vegetables or ingredients, setting them aside until ready to combine them in the Instant Pot for cooking.
Mushrooms (1 cup)
- Mushrooms are a crucial ingredient in adding depth and umami flavor to the Instant Pot Beef and Vegetable Soup recipe.
- The specific type of mushroom used can greatly impact the overall taste and texture of the soup, so it’s essential to choose the right variety.
- For this recipe, you’ll need 1 cup of sliced mushrooms, which should be about 8 ounces or equivalent to a small handful of whole mushrooms.
- The most commonly used types of mushrooms for soups are button mushrooms, cremini mushrooms, and shiitake mushrooms.
- Button mushrooms have a mild flavor and soft texture that works well in soups where you want the mushroom flavor to be subtle.
- Creamini mushrooms have a slightly stronger flavor than button mushrooms but still retain their delicate texture.
- Shiitake mushrooms, on the other hand, have a robust, earthy flavor that adds a rich depth to the soup.
- If you’re looking for an intense mushroom flavor, shiitake is an excellent choice; otherwise, button or cremini might be more suitable.
- In addition to the type of mushroom, it’s also essential to clean and prepare them correctly before adding them to the Instant Pot.
- Rinse the mushrooms under cold water, pat them dry with paper towels, and then slice them into thin strips for easy cooking.
- Finally, be sure not to overcrowd the Instant Pot when adding the sliced mushrooms, as this can cause them to steam rather than brown and develop their full flavor.
- Aim to add the sliced mushrooms in batches if necessary, allowing each batch to cook before adding the next.
- This will help ensure that your mushrooms are cooked evenly and retain their texture throughout the soup-making process.
Tomatoes (1 can, 14.5 oz)
The ingredients listed for the recipe include a variety of items, but one notable component is the can of tomatoes. Specifically, it calls for 1 can of diced or crushed tomatoes that measures 14.5 ounces in weight.
This type of tomato product is often used in soups and stews because it adds a rich source of acidity and sweetness to the dish. The canning process allows for the tomatoes to be preserved and stored for extended periods, making them an easily accessible ingredient in many kitchens.
The 14.5-ounce size is a relatively standard weight for canned tomatoes used in cooking. It provides enough liquid and tomato solids to add depth of flavor without overpowering the other ingredients in the soup.
When selecting a can of diced or crushed tomatoes, look for one that is labeled as “no salt added” or low-sodium to control the overall salt content of the finished soup. If using a regular canned product, omit some or all of the salt called for in the recipe to avoid over-salting the dish.
It’s also worth noting that other types of tomatoes may be substituted in this recipe if desired, such as fresh or frozen options. However, keep in mind that these alternatives will affect the texture and flavor profile of the soup slightly differently than canned tomatoes.
In terms of specific brand recommendations, any reputable manufacturer can provide a quality product for use in the Instant Pot Beef and Vegetable Soup Recipe. Look for a product that is labeled as “BPA-free” to ensure safety during cooking.
Beef broth (4 cups)
Beef broth is a crucial ingredient in this recipe, providing the base flavor for our Instant Pot beef and vegetable soup. The amount required is 4 cups, which will be used to create a rich and savory broth that will infuse into the vegetables and beef during cooking.
The beef broth used in this recipe should be a high-quality, low-sodium option. You can use store-bought beef broth or make your own using beef bones, carrots, celery, and onions. If using homemade beef broth, you’ll want to strain it through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any solids before using it in the recipe.
If you’re looking for a lower-sodium option, you can also use beef stock or consommé as a substitute for beef broth. Keep in mind that these alternatives may have a stronger flavor profile than regular beef broth, so adjust the amount used according to your taste preferences.
Some additional tips when working with beef broth:
Mix it with other liquids
To enhance the flavor of the soup, you can mix the beef broth with some red wine or apple cider for added depth and complexity. Just be sure to adjust the amount of liquid accordingly.
Don’t over-rely on it
While beef broth is a crucial component, don’t let it overpower the other flavors in the soup. Balance it out with aromatics like onions, garlic, carrots, and celery for a well-rounded taste experience.
Worcestershire sauce (2 tablespoons)
The first ingredient listed for this Instant Pot recipe is two tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce, which is a condiment made from a variety of ingredients including tamarind extract, soy sauce, vinegar, molasses, sugar, salt, onions, garlic, lemons, and spices.
The addition of Worcestershire sauce to the soup adds a rich, savory flavor that enhances the overall taste experience. It is often used in soups, stews, sauces, marinades, and salad dressings because it provides depth and umami flavor.
In this particular recipe, the two tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce work in combination with the beef broth and other ingredients to create a hearty and comforting soup that is perfect for a chilly evening or a family gathering. The slightly sweet and tangy flavors of the Worcestershire sauce complement the savory taste of the vegetables and beef, creating a delicious balance of flavors.
When shopping for Worcestershire sauce, it’s essential to choose a reputable brand that adheres to good manufacturing practices (GMPs) and is free from artificial preservatives, colors, and flavor enhancers. This ensures that your soup receives the authentic flavor intended by the chef who created this recipe.
The two tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce should be added to the Instant Pot along with the other ingredients according to the recipe instructions. Make sure to stir well and allow the mixture to cook for at least 30 minutes on high pressure, which is essential for extracting all the flavors from the vegetables and beef.
Salt and pepper (to taste)
When it comes to preparing a delicious and comforting Instant Pot Beef and Vegetable Soup, the right combination of ingredients plays a crucial role in bringing out the flavors and textures of this popular dish.
The first key ingredient to focus on is salt. Salt is an essential seasoning that enhances the flavor of the soup, and its importance cannot be overstated. However, it’s not just about adding a generic amount of salt; rather, it’s all about balance and nuance. When using salt in your Instant Pot Beef and Vegetable Soup, remember that less can often be more.
This is where the phrase ‘to taste’ comes into play. It means you should add salt as needed, taking into account the specific characteristics of the ingredients used and adjusting accordingly. If you’re working with high-sodium broth or adding a salty ingredient like soy sauce or fish sauce, it’s best to hold back on additional salt. But if your ingredients are relatively bland or neutral, a bit of extra salt might be just what the doctor ordered.
Of course, no discussion about seasoning would be complete without mentioning pepper. Like salt, pepper is an essential condiment that brings out the natural flavors in your food. While some recipes call for specific amounts of pepper, others leave it up to the cook to decide how much to use.
In this case, the ‘to taste’ notation indicates that you should add pepper until it suits your personal preference. Some people prefer a light sprinkling of pepper, while others enjoy a more generous helping. Ultimately, it’s all about balancing out the flavors in your Instant Pot Beef and Vegetable Soup so that each spoonful is perfectly seasoned.
As with salt, don’t be afraid to adjust the amount of pepper you use based on the specific ingredients used. If your beef or vegetables are particularly peppery, you might want to hold back on additional pepper to avoid overpowering the dish. On the other hand, if your soup is lacking a bit of depth and warmth, a few extra grinds of pepper could be just what it needs.
Remember, seasoning is an art that requires patience, experimentation, and practice. It’s not about following a strict recipe; rather, it’s about using your intuition to create a harmonious balance of flavors in your Instant Pot Beef and Vegetable Soup.
Instructions
Cooking the soup
The process of cooking an Instant PotBeef and Vegetable Soup recipe requires attention to detail and adherence to a set of instructions.
To begin, gather all necessary ingredients including beef, vegetables such as carrots, celery, and potatoes, aromatic spices like onion powder and dried thyme, and a rich broth base comprised of chicken or beef stock.
Next, prepare the pot by pressing the Saute button on the Instant Pot control panel to heat up the inner cooking vessel. Once it reaches the desired temperature, add the beef, usually in the form of sliced steaks or cubed roasts, and sear until browned.
Following this initial step, remove the beef from the pot and set aside temporarily. Then, sauté the sliced onion and chopped garlic in a small amount of oil to add flavor and texture.
Subsequently, add the vegetables, including the previously mentioned carrots, celery, and potatoes, along with any additional desired vegetables such as zucchini or mushrooms, to the pot.
Now, pour in the broth base, usually made from a combination of stock cubes and water, ensuring that all the ingredients are submerged. Bring the mixture to a boil using the Saute function before transitioning into the pressure cooking phase by closing the lid and setting the Instant Pot to Manual High Pressure mode.
As the pot begins to build pressure, the control panel will automatically switch to an on state and start counting down from a predetermined number of minutes. Once this time has elapsed, allow for a controlled release by opening the valve on top of the pot to gradually dissipate the built-up steam.
Finally, carefully remove the cooked beef and sliced vegetables from the Instant Pot with the help of a utensil such as a slotted spoon or tongs. Serve immediately while the soup is still hot and the ingredients are at their most flavorful, garnished with any additional seasonings if desired.
Press the “Saute” button on your Instant Pot.
To successfully prepare a delicious Instant Pot Beef and Vegetable Soup, it’s essential to follow the instructions carefully, starting with pressing the “Saute” button on your Instant Pot.
Here are the steps to press the “Saute” button:
- Make sure you have selected the right function by navigating through the different options on the control panel of your Instant Pot.
- The “Saute” button is usually located at the bottom left or right corner of the control panel, depending on the model of your Instant Pot.
- Press and hold the “Saute” button until it starts to blink. This indicates that the function has been activated.
Once you have pressed the “Saute” button, you can begin browning the beef and cooking the aromatics as per the Instant Pot Beef and Vegetable Soup Recipe instructions.
The “Saute” function on your Instant Pot allows for a variety of heat levels to be applied, ranging from low to high. This feature enables users to brown or sear ingredients without having to use an external pan or stovetop.
Add oil to the pot, then sauté the beef until browned.
The instructions for cooking a hearty and flavorful Instant Pot Beef and Vegetable Soup are as follows:
To begin, you will need to add oil to the pot. This is an essential step in creating a rich and savory soup, as it helps to prevent the beef from sticking to the bottom of the pot and adds flavor to the dish. Choose a neutral-tasting oil such as canola or grapeseed oil, and pour about 2-3 tablespoons into the Instant Pot.
Once the oil is hot, add the beef to the pot and sauté until browned. This step is crucial in developing the flavor of the soup, as it creates a rich, caramelized crust on the surface of the beef that adds depth and umami flavor to the dish. Use high heat and stir occasionally to ensure that the beef browns evenly.
As the beef browns, you will start to notice that it releases its juices and begins to break down into tender, flavorful morsels. This is a sign that the cooking process is working as intended, and your soup is on its way to becoming a delicious, comforting meal.
Once the beef has browned, add your choice of vegetables to the pot and sauté for an additional 2-3 minutes. This helps to soften the vegetables and blend their flavors with those of the beef and broth. Be sure to add enough liquid to cover the ingredients, as this will help them cook evenly and prevent them from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
With the ingredients browned and the vegetables sautéed, you are now ready to add your broth and seasonings to the Instant Pot. This is where the magic happens, as the flavors blend together in a delicious, savory soup that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Add chopped vegetables and cook until they start to soften.
To create a delicious and hearty Instant Pot Beef and Vegetable Soup, follow these detailed instructions.
First, gather all the necessary ingredients, including beef (such as chuck or round), an assortment of chopped vegetables, broth, and any desired seasonings. You will need to prepare the vegetables in advance, so take a few minutes to chop them into bite-sized pieces.
The key vegetable components for this soup are typically carrots, potatoes, onions, celery, and sometimes bell peppers. It’s essential to chop these ingredients evenly so they cook at the same rate during the soup-making process.
Next, press the “Saute” button on your Instant Pot, allowing it to heat up for a couple of minutes. Add a small amount of oil to the pot and sauté the chopped onions until they start to caramelize and soften.
Add the remaining chopped vegetables to the Instant Pot, stirring to combine with the softened onions. Cook the vegetable mixture for about 5-7 minutes, or until it begins to soften and release their natural flavors.
After the vegetables have started to soften, add the beef broth to the Instant Pot. Stir in any desired seasonings, such as dried thyme or bay leaves. Place the lid on the Instant Pot and make sure it is sealed properly.
Close the lid of the Instant Pot and select the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” mode. Set the cooking time to 20-25 minutes at high pressure for tender beef and vegetables. The Instant Pot will automatically start building up pressure, and once it reaches the set pressure, it will begin counting down from the selected time.
Once the cooking cycle has completed, allow the pressure to release naturally for about 10-15 minutes before opening the lid of the Instant Pot. After the pressure has released, carefully remove the beef and vegetables from the pot with a slotted spoon or tongs, and serve them hot in bowls.
Optional toppings for this hearty soup include crusty bread, chopped fresh herbs, or a dollop of sour cream. Feel free to get creative and customize your Instant Pot Beef and Vegetable Soup to suit your taste preferences!
Pour in broth, Worcestershire sauce, and diced tomatoes.
The first step in creating this delicious Instant Pot Beef and Vegetable Soup recipe is to pour in the broth, Worcestershire sauce, and diced tomatoes.
This involves opening the Instant Pot lid and carefully pouring the contents into the pot without spilling a single drop. The broth should be poured first, followed by the Worcestershire sauce, which adds a savory flavor to the dish, and finally the diced tomatoes, which add a burst of juicy sweetness.
As you pour in each ingredient, make sure to evenly distribute them throughout the pot, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. The broth serves as the foundation of the soup, while the Worcestershire sauce adds depth and complexity, and the diced tomatoes bring a pop of freshness.
The key is to maintain a smooth flow while pouring in the ingredients, taking care not to create any air pockets or uneven distribution that could affect the final result. This attention to detail ensures that each spoonful of this Instant Pot Beef and Vegetable Soup recipe is nothing short of perfection.
Tips and Variations
Customizing your soup
To customize your Instant Pot Beef and Vegetable Soup, you can experiment with various tips and variations to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.
Creamy Addition
If you want a richer and creamier soup, add 1/4 cup of heavy cream or half-and-half towards the end of cooking time. This will give your soup a luxurious texture and flavor.
Spice it up
For an extra kick, add some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to give your soup a spicy twist. You can also use different types of hot sauce to suit your desired level of heat.
Vegetable Variations: Feel free to swap out or add other vegetables to the recipe to create a unique flavor and texture combination. Some options include:
- Diced potatoes: adds natural sweetness and heft to the soup
- Roasted carrots: brings out the natural sweetness of carrots and adds a pop of color
- Chopped kale: adds a boost of nutrients and a slightly bitter flavor to balance out the sweetness of other vegetables
- Cut green beans: adds a burst of freshness and crunch to the soup
Beef Variations
If you prefer a leaner beef option, use sliced sirloin or flank steak instead of chuck roast. You can also use ground beef if you prefer a heartier, more comforting soup.
Aromatic Herbs: Add some chopped fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley to the pot for added depth and complexity in flavor. You can also use dried herbs if you prefer.
Clear Broth: If you want a clear broth, strain the soup before serving using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth. This will remove any solids and leave you with a crystal-clear broth.
Garnish Ideas
Get creative with your garnishes! Some ideas include:
- Chopped fresh herbs: use as a garnish to add color and fragrance
- Sliced scallions or chives: adds a pop of color and freshness
- Crispy bacon bits: adds smoky flavor and crunch
For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes or hot sauce.
To take your Instant Pot Beef and Vegetable Soup to the next level, consider adding a spicy kick with red pepper flakes or hot sauce. This will add a depth of flavor and heat that complements the rich broth and tender beef.
For those who like it mild, start by adding just a pinch of red pepper flakes to the pot when you sauté the onions and garlic at the beginning of the recipe. This will allow the flavors to meld together and distribute evenly throughout the soup.
If you prefer a bolder flavor, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add in some hot sauce towards the end of cooking time. You can also use a combination of both for an extra spicy kick. Some popular hot sauces include sriracha, Frank’s RedHot, and Cholula.
Keep in mind that when adding red pepper flakes or hot sauce, it’s better to start with a small amount and adjust to taste. This will prevent the soup from becoming too spicy for your liking.
If you want to take it up another notch, consider adding some diced jalapeños or serrano peppers to the pot during the cooking time. These will add an intense heat and flavor that’s sure to elevate your Instant Pot Beef and Vegetable Soup.
Finally, don’t forget to taste as you go and adjust seasoning accordingly. You can always add more salt, pepper, or other spices to balance out the flavors, but it’s harder to remove excess heat from the soup.
With these tips and variations in mind, you’re ready to take your Instant Pot Beef and Vegetable Soup to new heights with a spicy kick that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
To make it thicker, use less beef broth or add tomato paste.
To make a thicker version of this delicious Instant Pot Beef and Vegetable Soup, you have a couple of options that you can consider.
The first option is to simply reduce the amount of beef broth used in the recipe. By doing so, you will concentrate the flavors of the soup and result in a heartier, more comforting dish.
Alternatively, you can also add some tomato paste to enhance the flavor of the soup. Tomato paste has a thick, intense flavor that is perfect for adding depth and richness to this recipe.
If you choose to reduce the amount of beef broth, start by using 2 cups instead of 4 cups. You can always adjust the consistency further if needed by adding some additional beef broth or water.
On the other hand, if you prefer to use tomato paste, add it in small amounts at a time, starting with about 1-2 tablespoons per cup of broth. Taste as you go and adjust accordingly, so that the flavor is balanced.
Remember, when adding tomato paste, be sure to stir it well into the soup to avoid any lumps from forming. This will ensure a smooth, even consistency in the final product.
Either way, these adjustments will allow you to create a thicker and more satisfying version of this delicious Instant Pot Beef and Vegetable Soup that is perfect for cold winter nights or special occasions.
Use different types of meat or omit the beef for a vegetarian option.
This classic Instant Pot Beef and Vegetable Soup Recipe can be easily modified to accommodate different tastes and dietary preferences. For a vegetarian option, simply omit the beef and add additional vegetables or plant-based protein sources.
One way to mix things up is to substitute the beef with other types of meat. Try using boneless pork shoulder or chicken thighs for a delicious twist on the traditional recipe. Alternatively, you can use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version of the soup.
Anchovies and mussels are another option when it comes to seafood lovers. Add them towards the end of cooking time to avoid overcooking and preserve their texture. For those who want to add some extra flavor without using meat, consider adding cooked lentils or chickpeas for added protein and fiber.
Feel free to experiment with various vegetables such as sweet potatoes, parsnips, or carrots for a heartier soup. If you prefer a clear broth, use less water or try making the soup in a smaller Instant Pot model that allows for more precise liquid control.
Cooking time may vary depending on your preferred texture and the specific ingredients used. As a general guideline, add potatoes and other starchy vegetables towards the end of cooking time to avoid overcooking and maintain their natural texture.
Don’t forget to season generously with salt and herbs like thyme or rosemary for added depth of flavor. Consider making the soup in bulk and freezing individual portions for future meals – simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as needed.
Experimenting with different spice levels can also elevate the dish. Add some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or omit them altogether for a mild version suitable for all ages. For an added creaminess, try blending a portion of the soup before serving – use the smooth blend to add richness without overpowering the other ingredients.
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