Easy Weeknight Instant Pot Stew

Try this Easy Weeknight Instant Pot Stew recipe, or contribute your own.

Easy Weeknight Instant Pot Stew
Easy Weeknight Instant Pot Stew

Step-by-step

  • In a large bowl, combine the meat cubes with the curry powder, ginger, cumin and salt. Mix well.
  • Now place all the ingredients except the cilantro and salt and pepper (use to season at the end) into your Instant Pot.
  • Turn the pot on, be sure the steam valve is closed, and punch the "stew" button.
  • When it's done, turn the pot off and you can either turn the valve to release the pressure or allow it to come down on its own.
  • Season with salt and pepper to taste and garnish with cilantro.
  • If you'd like it thicker, stir in some arrowroot starch.

My Easy Weeknight Instant Pot Stew

As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a healthy and delicious dinner can feel like a Herculean task. Between juggling work deadlines, school pick-ups, and endless household chores, the last thing I want to do is spend hours slaving away in the kitchen. That's why I've become a huge fan of my Instant Pot. It's a lifesaver, allowing me to whip up flavorful meals quickly and efficiently, even on the busiest weeknights. This Instant Pot stew recipe is a perfect example. It’s hearty, comforting, and bursting with flavor, yet it requires minimal effort and cleanup.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences and what you have on hand. Don't have celeriac? Celery works just as well. Prefer chicken instead of pork? Go for it! The key is to use cuts of meat with some connective tissue for maximum flavor and tenderness when cooked in the Instant Pot. The long, slow pressure cooking process breaks down the tougher bits, resulting in melt-in-your-mouth goodness. I often use pork shoulder or country-style ribs – they are both incredibly affordable and deliver fantastic results in this recipe. The combination of curry powder, ginger, and cumin creates a warm, aromatic blend that perfectly complements the rich flavor of the meat and vegetables. And the addition of coconut milk gives the stew a luxuriously creamy texture that’s simply irresistible.

This stew is more than just a quick weeknight meal; it's a chance to create a nourishing and comforting experience for my family. The rich aroma filling the kitchen as it simmers is a welcome invitation to gather around the table and enjoy a delicious, home-cooked meal together. There’s something undeniably special about sharing a meal prepared with love, and this Instant Pot stew is the perfect embodiment of that. It’s a testament to the fact that even amidst the chaos of daily life, we can still find time to nurture our families with wholesome, flavorful food. This stew consistently gets rave reviews from my family, and it’s become a staple in our weekly meal rotation. I hope it becomes a favorite in your kitchen too!

Beyond the Recipe: The Instant Pot has revolutionized my cooking. It's not just for stews; I use it for everything from soups and chili to rice and even yogurt. It's incredibly versatile, and the time-saving aspect is unparalleled. For me, it’s about more than just efficiency; it’s about reclaiming my time and reducing the stress associated with meal preparation. I can spend less time in the kitchen and more time with my family – that's priceless. So, if you're looking for a way to simplify your weeknight dinners without sacrificing flavor, I highly recommend giving this Instant Pot stew – and the Instant Pot itself – a try. You won't regret it.

Tips and Variations:

  • Spice Level: Adjust the amount of curry powder to your liking. For a milder stew, start with 2 tablespoons and add more to taste.
  • Vegetable Variations: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like potatoes, sweet potatoes, or green beans.
  • Meat Alternatives: Chicken thighs or beef stew meat are excellent substitutes for pork.
  • Thickening: If you prefer a thicker stew, add a tablespoon or two of arrowroot starch mixed with a little cold water towards the end of the cooking time.
  • Make it Ahead: This stew tastes even better the next day! It's perfect for meal prepping.

Serving Suggestions:

  • Serve hot with crusty bread for dipping.
  • Pair it with a side salad for a complete meal.
  • Enjoy it as a comforting lunch the next day.

This Instant Pot stew is more than just a recipe; it’s a shortcut to deliciousness and a way to reclaim precious time in a busy life. It's a testament to the power of simple, flavorful ingredients and the convenience of modern kitchen appliances. Give it a try – I promise you won’t be disappointed!