Instant Pot Swiss Steak: Comfort Food, Fast

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Imagine a tender, juicy steak, slow-cooked to perfection in a rich, savory gravy. This isn’t your ordinary pot roast; it’s a culinary masterpiece, a harmonious blend of classic comfort food and global flavors. Welcome to the world of the Rustic Rhapsody, a dish that celebrates the power of the Instant Pot to transform simple ingredients into extraordinary meals.

Ingredients:

2 pounds boneless chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1/2 cup red wine
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 bay leaf

  • Swiss Steak with Mushroom Gravy - Instant Pot
    Swiss Steak with Mushroom Gravy – Instant Pot

    Image Source: frugalhausfrau.com

    Preparation Process:

    1. Sear the Steak: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the steak cubes with salt and pepper. Sear the cubes in batches until browned on all sides.
    2. Layer the Flavors: Transfer the seared steak to the Instant Pot. Add the onion, garlic, beef broth, red wine, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, black pepper, and bay leaf.
    3. Pressure Cook to Perfection: Secure the lid and set the Instant Pot to high pressure for 45 minutes. Allow a natural pressure release for 10 minutes before manually releasing any remaining pressure.
    4. Thicken the Gravy: Once the pressure is released, remove the lid. Use an immersion blender to thicken the gravy to your desired consistency. If you prefer a thicker gravy, you can transfer the liquid to a saucepan and simmer until it reaches your desired thickness.

    Total Time Required: 1 hour 30 minutes

    Serving Ideas:

    Classic Comfort: Serve the Rustic Rhapsody over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice.

  • Elegant dinner: Pair the steak with roasted root vegetables and a side of steamed broccoli.
  • Hearty Winter Meal: Serve with a side of hearty soup, such as French onion soup or beef barley soup.

  • A Cultural Fusion

    The Rustic Rhapsody is a testament to the power of culinary fusion. It draws inspiration from various culinary traditions, from the hearty stews of Europe to the rich flavors of Asian cuisine. The beef, a classic Western ingredient, is slow-cooked in a flavorful sauce that incorporates elements of French cuisine, such as red wine and herbs. The soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce add umami depth, a flavor profile often found in Asian dishes.

    This dish is more than just a meal; it’s a journey through time and culture. It’s a reminder that the best flavors often come from unexpected combinations. As you savor each bite of this Rustic Rhapsody, you’ll experience the magic of culinary fusion, a celebration of diversity and a testament to the power of the human imagination.