Cooking a frozen roast beef in an Instant Pot is possible and can yield tender and flavorful results. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to do it:
Note: For food safety reasons, ensure that your roast beef is still within the safe time frame for frozen storage, and it's not too large to fit in your Instant Pot.
Ingredients:
- Frozen roast beef (of appropriate size for your Instant Pot)
- 1 tablespoon cooking oil (vegetable oil, olive oil, etc.)
- 1 cup beef broth or water
- Seasonings of your choice (salt, pepper, garlic powder, herbs, etc.)
Instructions:
Sear the roast beef (optional): Turn on the Instant Pot's sauté function and add the cooking oil to the pot. When the oil is hot, sear the frozen roast beef on all sides until it develops a brown crust. This step is optional but can add extra flavor to the final dish.
Add liquid and seasonings: Pour the beef broth or water into the Instant Pot. You can also add your preferred seasonings, such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, or herbs, to enhance the flavor of the roast.
Pressure cooking: Close the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to the sealing position. Select the "Pressure Cook" or "Manual" mode, and adjust the cooking time based on the size and thickness of the roast beef. As a general guideline, you can use the following cooking times:
- 3-4 pounds roast: 70-80 minutes
- 4-6 pounds roast: 80-90 minutes
Natural Release or Quick Release: After the cooking cycle is complete, you have two options for releasing the pressure:
- Natural Release: Allow the Instant Pot to release pressure naturally, which takes some time but can help maintain the meat's juiciness.
- Quick Release: Carefully switch the valve to the "Venting" position to release the pressure quickly. Be cautious of the hot steam.
Check the internal temperature: Once the pressure has been fully released, open the Instant Pot, and use a meat thermometer to check the roast beef's internal temperature. It should read at least 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare doneness or higher if you prefer a more well-done roast.
Rest and slice: Remove the roast beef from the Instant Pot and let it rest on a cutting board for a few minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, resulting in a tender and succulent roast.
Optional gravy: If desired, you can use the liquid left in the Instant Pot to make a flavorful gravy. Thicken the liquid with cornstarch or flour and adjust the seasoning to your taste.
That's it! You can now enjoy your delicious and tender roast beef, cooked conveniently from frozen using your Instant Pot.