Yes, you can steam beef in a pressure cooker before deep frying it. Steaming the beef first can help tenderize the meat and partially cook it, making it easier to achieve a tender and juicy result during the deep frying process.
Here's a general outline of how you can steam beef in a pressure cooker before deep frying:
Prepare the Beef: Cut the beef into desired pieces, such as strips or cubes. You can season the beef with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices or marinades.
Add Water to the Pressure Cooker: Place a rack or steamer basket inside the pressure cooker and add some water to create steam. The exact amount of water will depend on your pressure cooker's instructions, but it's usually around 1 to 2 cups.
Steam the Beef: Put the seasoned beef pieces on the rack or steamer basket inside the pressure cooker. Close the pressure cooker with its lid securely.
Pressure Cooking Time: Follow the pressure cooking instructions for beef. Cooking time will vary based on the size and thickness of the beef pieces, but it typically ranges from 10 to 20 minutes under pressure.
Natural Pressure Release (NPR): After the steaming time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally by letting the pressure cooker sit undisturbed. This ensures that the beef finishes cooking in residual heat and becomes tender.
Drain and Cool: Once the pressure is fully released, remove the beef from the pressure cooker and drain any excess liquid. Allow the beef to cool for a few minutes before deep frying.
Deep Fry the Beef: Preheat oil in a deep fryer or a heavy-bottomed pan. Carefully place the steamed beef pieces into the hot oil and deep fry until they achieve a crispy and golden-brown exterior.
Serve: Once deep-fried, remove the beef from the oil and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Serve the steamed and deep-fried beef with your favorite dipping sauces or sides.
Steaming the beef in a pressure cooker before deep frying can yield a more tender and flavorful result compared to solely deep frying raw beef. It's a great technique to use when preparing dishes like Asian-style beef stir-fries or crispy beef recipes.