Corned beef is a classic comfort food that many of us love, but the traditional cooking methods can be time-consuming. Luckily, a pressure cooker can make this hearty dish tender and flavorful in a fraction of the time. If you’ve ever wondered how to cook corned beef in a pressure cooker, this easy-to-follow guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, ensuring juicy, melt-in-your-mouth results every time.
What Is Corned Beef?
Corned beef is a salt-cured beef brisket, typically made from tougher cuts like silverside or brisket. The term “corned” comes from the large grains of salt (“corns”) used in the curing process. This curing not only preserves the meat but also infuses it with a distinctive savory flavor. Traditionally, corned beef is simmered for hours to become tender, but a pressure cooker drastically reduces this time while enhancing the taste and texture.
Why Use a Pressure Cooker for Corned Beef?
Pressure cookers use steam and high pressure to cook food quickly and evenly. This method can cut cooking time by up to 70%, making it perfect for corned beef, which usually requires slow, long cooking to tenderize. The sealed environment traps moisture and flavors, helping the meat become incredibly tender and juicy without drying out.
Ingredients You’ll Need
– 3 to 4 pounds of corned beef brisket (with seasoning packet if available)
– 1 large onion, roughly chopped or quartered
– 3 cloves garlic, minced or whole
– 4 cups beef broth or water
– Pickling spices (often included with corned beef; if not, use bay leaves, peppercorns, mustard seeds)
– Optional: carrots, potatoes, cabbage for serving
Step-by-Step: How to Cook Corned Beef in a Pressure Cooker
1. Rinse the Corned Beef
Start by rinsing the corned beef brisket under cold water to remove excess salt from the curing brine. This step prevents the dish from becoming too salty. Trim off any thick fat if desired, but leaving a thin layer helps keep the meat moist and flavorful.
2. Prepare Your Pressure Cooker
Place the chopped onion and garlic at the bottom of the pressure cooker. Add the beef broth or water, ensuring there’s enough liquid to cover or nearly cover the brisket. The liquid helps create steam and infuses the meat with flavor.
3. Add the Corned Beef and Spices
Place the brisket fat side up on top of the onions and garlic. Sprinkle the seasoning packet or your pickling spices evenly over the meat. This layering enhances the flavor during cooking.
4. Cook Under Pressure
Secure the lid on your pressure cooker and set the valve to the sealing position. Cook on high pressure for about 90 minutes. Cooking time can vary slightly depending on the size and thickness of your brisket, but 90 minutes is a reliable starting point for a 3-4 pound piece.
5. Natural Pressure Release and Rest
Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for about 10 minutes, then carefully perform a quick release to let out any remaining steam. Remove the lid and let the corned beef rest in the cooking liquid for 10-15 minutes. This resting period helps the meat retain its juices when sliced.
6. Optional: Cook Vegetables
If you want to serve your corned beef with classic sides like potatoes, carrots, and cabbage, add these to the pressure cooker after the beef is done. Cook them on high pressure for 4-5 minutes each, using quick release after each batch to avoid overcooking.
7. Slice and Serve
Slice the corned beef against the grain to maximize tenderness. Serve warm with the cooked vegetables or cold in sandwiches. Mustard, horseradish, or pickles make excellent accompaniments.
Tips for Perfect Pressure Cooker Corned Beef
– Use the right cut: Brisket or silverside corned beef works best.
– Don’t skip rinsing: It balances the saltiness.
– Layer flavors: Onions, garlic, and pickling spices add depth.
– Follow your pressure cooker’s instructions: Electric models may differ from stovetop ones.
– Rest the meat: Letting it sit after cooking keeps it juicy.
– Add veggies last: To avoid mushy sides, cook them after the beef.
What to Serve with Pressure Cooker Corned Beef
Corned beef pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes, steamed carrots, cabbage, and a dollop of mustard or horseradish sauce. For a lighter option, thin slices of cold corned beef make delicious sandwiches with pickles and mustard.
Cooking corned beef in a pressure cooker is a game-changer – it cuts hours off cooking time while delivering tender, flavorful results. Whether for a comforting family dinner or a festive occasion, this method makes enjoying corned beef easier and faster than ever. Give it a try and savor the rich, juicy taste without the wait!