[Full Guide] How Long To Cook Corned Beef Brisket In Instant Pot?

Corned beef brisket is a classic dish that is perfect for any time of the year, but especially popular during St. Patrick’s Day. Cooking it in an Instant Pot can significantly reduce the cooking time without sacrificing flavor and tenderness. This article will guide you through selecting, preparing, and cooking corned beef brisket in an Instant Pot. Whether you’re a seasoned Instant Pot user or a beginner, this comprehensive guide will ensure you achieve a mouthwatering corned beef brisket every time.

Quick Answer: How Long To Cook Corned Beef Brisket In Instant Pot

When cooking corned beef brisket in an Instant Pot, the recommended cooking time is about 90 minutes for a 3-pound brisket. However, the cooking time may vary depending on the size and thickness of the brisket. It’s important to factor in natural pressure release time as well.

Selection

When selecting a corned beef brisket for cooking in an Instant Pot, consider the following points:

• Size: The size of the brisket matters as it will dictate the cooking time. A 3-4 pound brisket is ideal for most Instant Pot sizes.
• Quality: Choose a well-marbled brisket for the best flavor and tenderness.
• Pre-packaged vs. Homemade: You can purchase pre-packaged corned beef brisket from the store, or you can make your own by brining a beef brisket with pickling spices.

Preparation

Before cooking the corned beef brisket in the Instant Pot, it’s essential to prepare it properly. Here’s how to do it:

• Rinsing: Remove the brisket from its packaging and rinse it under cold water. Pat it dry with paper towels.
• Seasoning: Some briskets come with a seasoning packet. If not, you can create your own pickling spice blend.
• Trimming: Trim excess fat from the brisket if desired, but leaving some fat can add flavor and moisture.
• Optional Soaking: If you prefer a milder flavor, you can soak the brisket in cold water for 1-2 hours to remove some of the salt.

Instant Pot Cooking Times For Corned Beef Brisket

The cooking time for corned beef brisket in an Instant Pot depends on the size and thickness of the brisket. Here’s a general guideline:

• 3-pound brisket: 90 minutes at high pressure, plus natural pressure release time.
• 4-pound brisket: 95 minutes at high pressure, plus natural pressure release time.
• 5-pound brisket: 100 minutes at high pressure, plus natural pressure release time.

It’s important to note that these times are for cooking the brisket until it’s fork-tender. Adjust the time as needed based on the specific size and thickness of your brisket.

How To Cook Corned Beef Brisket In Instant Pot

Now that you have selected and prepared your corned beef brisket, it’s time to cook it in the Instant Pot. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

1. Season the Brisket: Rub the brisket with the pickling spices or the seasoning packet that came with it.
2. Add Liquid: Pour 1-2 cups of water, beef broth, or a mixture of both into the Instant Pot. The liquid helps create steam and build pressure.
3. Trivet Placement: Place a trivet in the Instant Pot and put the seasoned brisket on top. This prevents the brisket from sitting in the cooking liquid, which can lead to overcooking.
4. Set Cooking Time: Seal the Instant Pot, set it to manual (high pressure), and adjust the cooking time based on the size of the brisket.
5. Natural Pressure Release: Once the cooking time is complete, allow for natural pressure release for at least 15 minutes before releasing any remaining pressure manually.
6. Check for Doneness: Test the brisket for tenderness by using a fork. It should easily shred or fall apart when it’s done.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with precise instructions, there can be some hiccups when cooking corned beef brisket in an Instant Pot. Here are some common issues and troubleshooting tips:

• Brisket is Tough: If the brisket is not tender enough, it may need more cooking time. You can reseal the Instant Pot and cook it for an additional 10-15 minutes.
• Brisket is Overcooked: If the brisket turns out too soft or falls apart easily, reduce the cooking time slightly next time. It’s best to do a quick pressure release to prevent overcooking.
• Lack of Flavor: If you find the flavor lacking, consider adding more seasoning or spices next time. You can also enhance the flavor by cooking the brisket with vegetables, such as cabbage, carrots, and potatoes, in the Instant Pot.

Cooking corned beef brisket in an Instant Pot is a convenient way to enjoy this classic dish with a fraction of the time and effort required for traditional methods. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can select, prepare, and cook a tender and flavorful corned beef brisket using your Instant Pot. Whether it’s for a holiday celebration or a weeknight dinner, your Instant Pot will help you achieve delicious results every time. With the right techniques and attention to detail, you’ll soon master the art of cooking corned beef brisket in an Instant Pot.

Instant Pot Cook Times For Frozen Corned Beef Brisket

Corned beef brisket is a popular dish, especially during St. Patrick’s Day. Traditionally, it is boiled on the stovetop for several hours. However, with the invention of the Instant Pot, you can now prepare this delicious meal in a fraction of the time.

One of the great advantages of using an Instant Pot is the ability to cook frozen meat without sacrificing flavor or texture. When it comes to corned beef brisket, cooking time can vary depending on the weight and thickness of the meat. Here are some general guidelines for cooking frozen corned beef brisket in an Instant Pot:

1. 2-3 pounds of frozen corned beef brisket: Set the Instant Pot to high pressure and cook for 90 minutes. Allow the pressure to release naturally for 10-15 minutes before manually releasing the remaining pressure.

2. 3-4 pounds of frozen corned beef brisket: Increase the cooking time to 100 minutes and follow the same steps as mentioned above.

It is worth noting that these cook times are guidelines, and the actual cooking time may vary. It is always a good idea to check the internal temperature of the brisket using a meat thermometer. The thickest part of the brisket should reach at least 145°F (63°C) to ensure it is fully cooked and tender.

Achieving Perfect Texture

One of the challenges when cooking corned beef brisket is achieving the perfect texture. It should be tender and juicy without being tough or dry. The Instant Pot can help achieve this by using pressure cooking to break down the tough fibers in the meat.

To achieve the perfect texture, follow these steps:

1. Rinse the corned beef brisket under cold water to remove any excess brine.
2. Place the brisket in the Instant Pot, fat side up, on the trivet provided with the Instant Pot.
3. Add water or broth to the Instant Pot, ensuring the liquid covers about 1/3 to 1/2 of the brisket.
4. Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to high pressure.
5. Cook for the recommended time based on the weight of the brisket (as mentioned in the previous section).
6. Allow the pressure to release naturally for 10-15 minutes before manually releasing the remaining pressure.
7. Carefully remove the cooked brisket from the Instant Pot and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your corned beef brisket is tender and juicy, making it a delight to eat.

Flavor Infusion

While corned beef brisket is delicious on its own, adding additional flavors can take it to the next level. The Instant Pot allows for easy flavor infusion, ensuring that every bite is bursting with deliciousness.

Here are a few ways to infuse flavor into your corned beef brisket:

1. Add aromatics to the cooking liquid: Along with water or broth, add onions, garlic, bay leaves, peppercorns, and other aromatics to the Instant Pot. These ingredients will infuse their flavors into the meat as it cooks.

2. Use beer or broth instead of water: Instead of using plain water, try using a flavorful liquid like beer or beef broth. This will add depth of flavor to the corned beef brisket.

3. Make a glaze: After cooking the corned beef brisket, remove it from the Instant Pot and brush it with a glaze made from mustard, brown sugar, and spices. Broil the brisket for a few minutes to caramelize the glaze and add a delicious crust.

4. Add vegetables: Along with the brisket, you can also cook vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and cabbage in the Instant Pot. They will absorb the flavors from the cooking liquid and complement the corned beef brisket perfectly.

By experimenting with different flavors and ingredients, you can create a corned beef brisket that is uniquely delicious.

Other Instant Pot Cooking Methods For Corned Beef Brisket

While pressure cooking is the most common method of cooking corned beef brisket in an Instant Pot, there are other cooking methods you can try to achieve different results.

Here are a few alternative cooking methods to consider:

1. Slow cooking: If you prefer a more hands-off approach, you can cook the corned beef brisket on low heat using the slow-cook function of the Instant Pot. This method will take longer, but it will result in a more tender and flavorful brisket.

2. Searing: Before pressure cooking the corned beef brisket, you can sear it on the sauté function of the Instant Pot. Searing will enhance the flavor and create a delicious crust on the outside of the brisket.

3. Sous vide: For the ultimate tenderness, you can try cooking the corned beef brisket sous vide using an Instant Pot with a sous vide function. This method involves vacuum-sealing the brisket in a bag and cooking it at a precise temperature for an extended period. The result is a perfectly tender and evenly cooked brisket.

These alternative cooking methods offer various options depending on your preferences and the time you have available.

Instant Pot Tips For Corned Beef Brisket

To ensure a successful cooking experience and a delicious corned beef brisket, here are some tips to keep in mind:

1. Use the trivet: Placing the corned beef brisket on the trivet provided with the Instant Pot helps prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot and ensures even cooking.

2. Allow for natural pressure release: After the cooking time is completed, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10-15 minutes before manually releasing the remaining pressure. This helps in maintaining the texture and juiciness of the brisket.

3. Slice against the grain: When it’s time to slice the corned beef brisket, remember to cut against the grain. This will result in more tender slices.

4. Let it rest: Allowing the cooked brisket to rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing helps retain the juices and ensures a moist and flavorful end result.

By following these tips, you can maximize the flavor and texture of your corned beef brisket cooked in an Instant Pot.

Creative Instant Pot Corned Beef Brisket Recipes And Variations

While traditional corned beef brisket is a classic dish, there are several creative recipes and variations you can try in your Instant Pot. Here are a few ideas to inspire your culinary creativity:

1. Asian-inspired: Add ginger, garlic, soy sauce, and star anise to the cooking liquid to give the corned beef brisket an Asian twist. Serve it with steamed rice and stir-fried vegetables for a delicious fusion meal.

2. BBQ-style: Instead of using water or broth, braise the corned beef brisket in a mixture of your favorite BBQ sauce and beer. The result will be a flavorful and slightly sweet brisket that’s perfect for sandwiches or served with coleslaw.

3. Reuben casserole: Layer sliced corned beef brisket, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Russian dressing in a baking dish. Top it with a layer of mashed potatoes and bake it in the oven until golden brown. This Reuben casserole is a delicious twist on the classic sandwich.

4. Corned beef hash: Shred the cooked corned beef brisket and sauté it with diced potatoes, onions, and bell peppers. Serve it with fried eggs for a hearty and flavorful breakfast.

These recipe variations are just a starting point; feel free to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to create your own unique Instant Pot corned beef brisket dishes.

Conclusion

Cooking corned beef brisket in an Instant Pot is a game-changer, allowing you to enjoy this delicious dish in a fraction of the time. With the right technique, you can achieve a perfect texture, infuse incredible flavors, and explore various cooking methods. By following the tips and trying out creative recipe variations, you’ll elevate your Instant Pot corned beef brisket to the next level. So, go ahead and savor the tender, juicy, and flavorful corned beef brisket that your Instant Pot can deliver.

FAQS

What Is An Instant Pot?

An instant pot is a multi-functional kitchen appliance that combines the functions of a pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker, yogurt maker, steamer, and more into one device. It is designed to cook food quickly and efficiently.

How Long Does It Take To Cook Corned Beef Brisket In An Instant Pot?

The cooking time for corned beef brisket in an instant pot depends on the size and thickness of the meat. Generally, it takes about 90 minutes to cook a 3-pound corned beef brisket. For larger pieces of meat, you may need to add additional cooking time.

Do I Need To Add Any Liquid To The Instant Pot When Cooking Corned Beef Brisket?

Yes, it is important to add at least 1 cup of liquid to the instant pot when cooking corned beef brisket. This helps create the necessary steam and pressure needed for the meat to cook properly. You can use water, beef broth, or a combination of both as the cooking liquid.

Should I Use The "meat" Function Or The "pressure Cook" Function For Cooking Corned Beef Brisket In An Instant Pot?

It is recommended to use the "pressure cook" or "manual" function on your instant pot for cooking corned beef brisket. This function allows you to control the cooking time and pressure manually. The "meat" function may not provide enough cooking time for the corned beef brisket to become tender.

Can I Cook Vegetables With The Corned Beef Brisket In The Instant Pot?

Yes, you can cook vegetables in the same pot as the corned beef brisket. It is recommended to add the vegetables in the last 10 minutes of the cooking time to prevent them from becoming too mushy. Alternatively, you can cook the vegetables separately and serve them alongside the corned beef brisket.