Instant Pot Brisket with Guinness Gravy

October 30, 2024
by Emily Hart.

Why Choose Instant Pot for Cooking Brisket?

The Instant Pot has revolutionized home cooking, particularly for meats like brisket. Traditional methods can take hours, often requiring constant attention. In contrast, the Instant Pot significantly reduces cooking time while enhancing the flavors through pressure cooking. This method locks in moisture, resulting in a tender and juicy brisket that melts in your mouth. Moreover, the convenience of sautéing, pressure cooking, and even making gravy all in one pot minimizes cleanup time, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or special occasions.

The Benefits of Cooking with Guinness

Using Guinness in your brisket recipe not only adds a rich, deep flavor but also contributes to the overall tenderness of the meat. The stout s acidity helps break down the proteins in the beef, while its malty sweetness balances the savory elements of the dish. This combination creates a unique taste profile that elevates your meal from ordinary to extraordinary. Additionally, Guinness is packed with antioxidants, making your hearty dish not just delicious but also a tad healthier. Pairing this recipe with the robust flavors of Guinness can impress your guests and family alike.

Serving Suggestions for Instant Pot Brisket

This Instant Pot brisket with Guinness gravy is versatile and can be paired with various side dishes to create a well-rounded meal. Consider serving it alongside creamy mashed potatoes, which can soak up the rich gravy beautifully. Roasted vegetables, such as carrots and Brussels sprouts, add color and nutrition to your plate. Additionally, a fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty meat. For a more traditional approach, serve the brisket on a crusty bread roll, creating delicious sandwiches that are perfect for leftovers.

Storing and Reheating Leftover Brisket

If you find yourself with leftover brisket, you re in for a treat! Properly stored, brisket can last in the refrigerator for up to four days. To store, simply place the meat in an airtight container with some of the gravy to keep it moist. When you re ready to enjoy it again, reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or water to prevent drying out. This method ensures that the flavors remain vibrant, and you can savor the deliciousness of your Instant Pot brisket days after the initial meal.

Variations on the Classic Recipe

While the traditional brisket with Guinness gravy is a classic, there are numerous ways to adapt this recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. For those looking for a spicier kick, consider adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika or red pepper flakes to the seasoning. Alternatively, you can experiment with different types of beer, such as a stout or porter, to create a distinct flavor. For a lighter version, substitute the beef brisket with turkey or chicken breasts, adjusting the cooking time accordingly. Each variation offers a unique twist while maintaining the essence of this comforting dish.

This tender beef brisket cooked in the Instant Pot is the easiest and quickest way to enjoy a classic. Served with potatoes and rich Guinness gravy, this hassle-free meal is sure to impress!

Prep time:10 minutes
Cook time:1 hour 10 minutes
Total time:1 hour 20 minutes
Yield:8 servings

Ingredients

2.5 lbs beef brisket
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tbsp vegetable oil
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, pressed
150ml (2/3 cup) Guinness
80ml (1/3 cup) tomato passata or crushed tomatoes
2 tbsp brown sugar
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp dried thyme or 2-3 sprigs fresh thyme
1 bay leaf
1 tbsp butter, melted
1 tbsp flour

Instructions

Trim any excess fat from the beef brisket, seasoning it with salt and pepper.
Press the SAUTE button on your Instant Pot. Add 1 tbsp of vegetable oil and brown the brisket on all sides until golden, approximately 5-7 minutes. Remove the brisket and set it aside.
Add the chopped onions to the pot and sauté for 5 minutes, then add the pressed garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds.
Press CANCEL to stop the sautéing process. Pour in the Guinness, followed by the tomato passata, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, thyme, and bay leaf. Stir to combine.
Return the brisket to the pot, spooning some of the liquid over it. Secure the lid, ensuring the valve is set to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 60 minutes.
Once cooking is complete, allow for a natural pressure release. Remove the brisket to a platter and let it rest.
Press the SAUTE button again to bring the cooking liquid to a boil. Stir in the melted butter and flour mixture, allowing it to simmer until thickened, about 1 minute. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt if necessary.
Slice the brisket against the grain and serve with the rich Guinness gravy.