How to make the best instant pot corned beef and cabbage

If you’re looking to make a delicious Irish meal in half the traditional cooking time, instant pot corned beef and cabbage is the perfect solution. This modern cooking method turns a tough cut of meat into tender, flavorful brisket while keeping your vegetables fresh and crisp. Instead of spending hours watching a pot on the stove, you can create this classic dish with minimal effort using your pressure cooker. Whether you’re cooking for St. Patrick’s Day or just craving a hearty family dinner, this simple recipe delivers restaurant-quality results right in your kitchen.

What is the best way to make instant pot corned beef and cabbage?

The best way to make instant pot corned beef and cabbage is to cook the beef under high pressure for about 90 minutes, then add your vegetables during the final cooking phase. This method transforms what used to take 3-4 hours on the stovetop into a simple process that delivers tender, flavorful results in about half the time.

Your corned beef brisket needs proper pressure cooking to break down the tough fibers. Start by seasoning the water with the included spice packet, garlic, and bay leaves. The magic happens when you let the Instant Pot do its work under high pressure, followed by a natural release that keeps the meat incredibly tender.

Adding vegetables like cabbage, potatoes, and carrots during the last 20-30 minutes prevents them from turning mushy. This timing gives you perfectly cooked vegetables that complement the rich, salty beef without losing their texture or vibrant color.

Ingredients and Tools Needed for Instant Pot Corned Beef and Cabbage

Getting the right ingredients and tools makes all the difference when preparing this classic dish. A typical 3-4 pound corned beef brisket costs between $20 and $40, making it an affordable centerpiece that feeds the whole family with plenty of leftovers for sandwiches.

Essential Ingredients for the Recipe

Your shopping list should include these core ingredients for the perfect pot of corned beef and cabbage:

• 3-4 pound corned beef brisket with spice packet
• 1 medium head of cabbage, cut into wedges
• 1.5 kg small potatoes, halved if large
• 450g carrots, cut into chunks
• 1 large onion, quartered
• 3-4 garlic cloves
• 2-3 bay leaves
• Water or beef broth for cooking liquid

Some home cooks like to add a bottle of beer or a splash of apple cider vinegar to boost the flavor profile. These additions aren’t necessary, but they can add depth to your cooking liquid.

Recommended Tools for Cooking

We recommend using a 6-quart or larger Instant Pot to give your ingredients enough space for even cooking. Smaller pressure cookers might work, but you’ll have better results with adequate room for everything.

• 6-quart or larger Instant Pot or electric pressure cooker
• Sharp knife for slicing meat and vegetables
• Large cutting board
• Measuring spoons for seasonings
• Tongs for handling the cooked meat
• Large serving platter

Step-by-Step Instructions for Cooking Instant Pot Corned Beef and Cabbage

Cooking instant pot corned beef and cabbage follows a straightforward process that even beginners can master. The key is timing your vegetables correctly so everything finishes together.

Start by placing your corned beef brisket in the Instant Pot with the fat side up. Add the spice packet contents, bay leaves, and garlic cloves. Pour in enough water or broth to cover the meat by about 2.5 cm.

Secure the lid and set your Instant Pot to high pressure for 90 minutes for a 3-4 pound brisket. Larger cuts might need an extra 15-20 minutes. Let the pressure release naturally for about 15 minutes before doing a quick release for any remaining pressure.

Remove the beef and wrap it in foil to keep it warm. Add your potatoes and carrots to the cooking liquid, then pressure cook for another 4 minutes. Add the cabbage wedges on top and cook for an additional 3 minutes on high pressure.

Slice the rested beef against the grain for the most tender results. Arrange everything on your serving platter with the cooking liquid spooned over the top.

Tips for Perfect Instant Pot Corned Beef and Cabbage

Getting restaurant-quality results at home comes down to mastering a few simple techniques. Many home cooks report that their pressure cooker version rivals any traditional recipe they’ve tried.

Enhancing Flavor with Seasonings

While the included spice packet works well, creating your own seasoning blend can elevate your dish significantly. We like to add black peppercorns, mustard seeds, and a bay leaf or two for extra complexity.

A small amount of brown sugar or honey balances the saltiness of the corned beef beautifully. Just a tablespoon stirred into the cooking liquid adds subtle sweetness without making the dish taste dessert-like.

Fresh herbs make a difference too. Adding thyme sprigs during cooking or sprinkling fresh parsley over the finished dish brightens the entire plate.

Cooking Techniques and Timing

The secret to perfectly tender meat lies in the natural pressure release. Rushing this step with a quick release can make your beef tough and stringy. Plan for at least 15 minutes of natural release time.

Don’t overcook your cabbage – it should be tender but still have some bite. Three minutes under pressure is usually perfect, though you might need an extra minute for very large wedges.

Resting the meat after cooking allows the juices to redistribute throughout the brisket. Wrap it in foil and let it sit for 10-15 minutes while you finish the vegetables.

Common Variations of Instant Pot Corned Beef and Cabbage

Traditional recipes are wonderful, but experimenting with variations keeps this classic dish exciting. Some families have been making the same changes for generations, creating their own signature versions.

Swapping regular cabbage for kale or Brussels sprouts gives you different textures and flavors. These heartier greens hold up well to pressure cooking and add nutritional variety to your plate.

Adding root vegetables like parsnips or turnips alongside your carrots creates a more complex side dish. These vegetables cook at similar rates and absorb the savory cooking liquid beautifully.

Some cooks prefer making their corned beef with different liquid bases. Using half beer and half water, or adding a cup of apple juice, creates unique flavor profiles that complement the spiced meat perfectly.

Enjoying and Serving Instant Pot Corned Beef and Cabbage: Ideas and Pairings

Serving this hearty meal properly makes the difference between a good dinner and a memorable feast. A typical serving of 110-170g of corned beef per person ensures everyone gets plenty without breaking your budget.

Slice your beef against the grain and arrange it on a large platter surrounded by the colorful vegetables. Spooning some of the flavorful cooking liquid over everything keeps the meat moist and adds extra taste to each bite.

Classic accompaniments include grainy mustard and horseradish for those who like a bit of heat. Irish soda bread makes an authentic side that’s perfect for soaking up the savory juices.

Pairing drinks thoughtfully complements the rich, salty flavors. A crisp pilsner or traditional Irish stout balances the heaviness of the meal, while sparkling water with lemon works well for non-drinkers.

Leftover corned beef keeps in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and makes incredible sandwiches. Reheat slices gently in the microwave or simmer them briefly in some reserved cooking liquid to maintain moisture. The total cost per meal typically ranges from $10 to $15, making this an economical choice for feeding a crowd.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you make Instant Pot corned beef and cabbage?

Making Instant Pot corned beef and cabbage involves placing onions and garlic in the pot, adding the corned beef fat side up, and pouring in beer, broth, seasoning, and water. After cooking on high pressure for 90 minutes, you add the vegetables and cook for an additional 5 minutes.

How long does it take to cook corned beef and cabbage in an Instant Pot?

Cooking corned beef and cabbage in an Instant Pot takes about 2 hours in total. This includes roughly 70 to 90 minutes for the corned beef followed by 2 to 5 minutes for the vegetables to finish cooking.

What is the best way to serve Instant Pot corned beef and cabbage?

The best way to serve Instant Pot corned beef and cabbage is to slice the beef against the grain and arrange it on a platter with the vegetables. Spoon some cooking liquid over the top for added flavor and moisture. Serve with grainy mustard or horseradish for an extra kick.

Can you add other vegetables to Instant Pot corned beef and cabbage?

Yes, you can add other vegetables to Instant Pot corned beef and cabbage. Some popular choices include parsnips, turnips, or even swapping out cabbage for kale or Brussels sprouts, which add different textures and flavors to the dish.