Why You’ll Love This Instant Pot Borscht Recipe
If you love hearty, comforting meals, you’re going to adore this Instant Pot Borscht recipe. It’s not just delicious; it’s also incredibly easy to make.
The Instant Pot takes care of the hard work, letting me enjoy the rich flavors of beets, tender meat, and sweet potatoes all in one bowl. I love how vibrant and colorful it looks, too!
Plus, it’s perfect for chilly days or when I want something nourishing. With minimal prep and a short cooking time, I can whip it up quickly, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.
Ingredients of Instant Pot Borscht
When it comes to making a delicious bowl of Instant Pot Borscht, having the right ingredients is key. This recipe is all about vibrant flavors and hearty textures, and trust me, you won’t want to skip any of these tasty components.
So, let’s gather everything we’ll need to create this comforting dish that’s sure to warm you up on those chilly evenings. Are you ready? Let’s plunge into the ingredient list!
- 3 lbs of stew meat
- 3 large beets, diced
- 6 carrots, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 large sweet potatoes, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 12 ounces of diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cups of broth
- 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt, to taste
Now, let’s talk about a couple of things regarding these ingredients. First off, don’t be shy about the beets; they’re the star of the show here, giving Borscht its signature deep red color and earthy flavor.
If you can find fresh beets, go for it! But if you’re in a pinch, pre-packaged diced beets can work too—just don’t tell the beets you met them in a bag.
The stew meat can be any kind you prefer, but I usually opt for chuck roast; it becomes so tender and flavorful after cooking!
And don’t forget the broth—homemade is great, but store-bought works just fine if you’re looking to save time.
How to Make Instant Pot Borscht
Making Instant Pot Borscht is a delightful adventure that starts with the vibrant ingredients you’ve gathered. First, take those 3 large beets and give them a good rinse. Once they’re clean, dice them up.
Now, in a bowl, mix the diced beets with about 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil and sprinkle them with a little salt. This helps to enhance their natural sweetness. After they’re well-coated, wrap them up in a foil packet—like a little beet burrito—so they can steam away in the Instant Pot.
Next, grab those 6 carrots and 2 large sweet potatoes. Cut them into 1-inch pieces, toss them in a bowl with a drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of salt, then wrap them in a separate foil packet.
Now, let’s move on to the main event—the stew meat. In the Instant Pot, add 3 lbs of your choice of stew meat. I often lean towards chuck roast because it’s so tender after cooking—like a warm hug in a bowl.
Pour in 2 cups of broth, toss in 12 ounces of diced tomatoes, and add 1 diced onion for that aromatic base. Place those foil packets on top of the meat mixture, making sure to seal the lid tightly. Set your Instant Pot to cook for 55 minutes. Trust me, while it’s cooking, your kitchen will start to smell like a cozy café on a chilly day, and you might find yourself doing a little happy dance.
Once the timer goes off, let the pressure release naturally for about 15 minutes. This is essential because it allows all those flavors to mingle together beautifully.
Carefully remove the foil packets—watch out for steam, it can be a sneaky little devil! Open them up, and transfer the contents right into the pot. Now, give everything a gentle stir, letting the colors and textures come together.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you’re feeling fancy, a dollop of sour cream on top can take this dish to the next level.
And there you have it—your warming bowl of Instant Pot Borscht is ready to be devoured. Perfect for those evenings when you just want comfort in a bowl. Enjoy, and don’t forget to share (if you can bear to part with it).
Instant Pot Borscht Substitutions & Variations
Now that you’ve mastered the basic recipe for Instant Pot Borscht, let’s talk about how you can customize it to suit your tastes or what you have on hand.
You can swap the stew meat for chicken or even go vegetarian by using beans or lentils. If beets aren’t your favorite, try adding cabbage or turnips instead.
For a tangy twist, consider using sauerkraut. Don’t hesitate to mix in different veggies like bell peppers or zucchini.
Finally, you can adjust the seasoning with herbs like dill or bay leaves to create a unique flavor profile that’s all your own!
What to Serve with Instant Pot Borscht
Borscht, with its vibrant color and hearty flavor, pairs beautifully with a variety of sides that enhance its rich taste.
One of my favorites is crusty rye bread, perfect for soaking up the broth. I also love serving it with a dollop of sour cream, which adds a creamy contrast.
Pickled herring or smoked fish can complement the borscht’s earthiness, while a fresh cucumber salad brings an invigorating crunch.
If you’re in the mood for something heartier, consider boiled potatoes or a savory grain like quinoa.
These sides not only round out the meal but also celebrate the borscht’s flavors.
Additional Tips & Notes
When serving your Instant Pot borscht, there are a few tips to keep in mind for the best experience.
First, I recommend letting the borscht sit for a few minutes before serving; this enhances the flavors. If you prefer a creamier texture, stir in a dollop of sour cream just before serving.
Don’t forget to garnish with fresh dill or parsley for a pop of color!
For leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge; the flavors deepen over time. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Enjoy!