how long to cook beef heart in instant pot

How Long to Cook Beef Heart in the Instant Pot for Tender, Delicious Results

Beef heart is an underutilized yet highly nutritious and delicious cut of meat that can be cooked to tender perfection in the instant pot. Rich in protein vitamins, and minerals like iron beef heart has a mild beefy flavor but can become tough if overcooked. With the instant pot, you can break down those tough muscle fibers and enjoy succulent, fork-tender beef heart every time. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about cooking times, techniques, tips, and recipes for beef heart in the instant pot.

Benefits of Beef Heart

Beef heart is packed with nutrition and health benefits. A 3 oz serving contains 25g of protein and is rich in:

• Iron: Helps prevent anemia and supports energy levels
• B12: Essential for red blood cell formation and nerve function
• CoQ10: A potent antioxidant that benefits heart health
• Zinc: Supports immune function and wound healing
• Selenium: An important antioxidant mineral

In addition to vitamins and minerals, heart is loaded with heart-healthy fats and protein. The mild, beefy flavor also makes it more palatable and versatile than other organ meats like liver.

Choosing a Beef Heart

When selecting a beef heart to cook in the instant pot, choose a fresh heart that looks moist and is bright red in color without any dry spots. Plan on about 1 pound of heart per person you are serving. For easier cooking, you can ask your butcher to slice the heart into 1 inch thick steaks. This allows for more even cooking.

Preparing Beef Heart for the Instant Pot

Before cooking, trim any visible excess fat and membranes from the beef heart using a sharp knife. Rinse well under cold water and pat dry. Season the heart as desired. Basic seasonings like salt, pepper, garlic powder, oregano, and paprika work well.

For extra flavor, marinate the seasoned heart in the fridge for 2-24 hours before cooking. Soy sauce, red wine, lemon juice, vinegar, and Worcestershire make great marinades for heart.

How to Cook Beef Heart in the Instant Pot

Cooking beef heart in the instant pot is simple. Here are step-by-step instructions:

1. Add 1 cup broth or water to the instant pot. This prevents burning and helps the heart cook evenly.

2. Place steamer basket in pot and add seasoned beef heart pieces.

3. Lock the lid and seal the pressure valve.

4. Select the Meat/Stew setting and adjust cook time:

   • Whole heart: 75 minutes
   • Heart steaks 1 inch thick: 20 minutes

5. Allow pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes before opening lid.

6. Check doneness by slicing a piece of heart. Meat should be fork tender without any pink inside.

7. Remove heart from pot. Slice against the grain if necessary.

8. Enjoy immediately or use in recipes like stew, kebabs, etc. Heart holds well in the fridge for 5 days.

Cooking Time per Pound:

• Whole heart: 75 minutes
• Heart steaks: 20 minutes per 1 inch thickness

Tips for Instant Pot Beef Heart

• Keep pieces uniform in size for even cooking
• Add aromatics like onion, garlic, herbs
• Brown heart first for added flavor
• Slice against the grain before serving
• Use natural pressure release for tender results
• Add broth/water to prevent scorching

Beef Heart Instant Pot Recipes

Beef Heart and Vegetable Stew

Ingredients:

• 1 lb beef heart, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tsp thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Add all ingredients to instant pot and stir well.
2. Cook on Manual (High) for 20 minutes.
3. Allow natural pressure release for 10 minutes.
4. Remove bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper.

Curried Beef Heart

Ingredients:

• 1 lb beef heart steaks, pounded 1⁄4 inch thick
• 2 tbsp curry powder
• 1 tsp each cumin, turmeric, ginger
• 1 onion, thinly sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup full fat coconut milk
• Salt to taste
• Cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Season heart with spice blend. Sear in batches on Saute mode.
2. Return heart and juices to pot. Add onion, pepper, coconut milk.
3. Cook Manual (High) 15 minutes. Allow natural release 5 minutes.
4. Serve over cauliflower rice garnished with cilantro.

Beef Heart and Vegetable Kebabs

Ingredients:

• 1 lb beef heart, cut into 1-inch cubes
• Assorted veggies (peppers, onions, mushrooms, cherry tomatoes)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp each garlic powder, paprika, oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Toss beef heart in oil and seasonings.
2. Thread beef heart and veggies onto skewers.
3. Cook on Manual (High) for 8 minutes. Quick release pressure.
4. Grill or broil 2-3 minutes until browned.

Conclusion

Beef heart is a nutritious, budget-friendly meat option that can be cooked to fork-tender perfection in the instant pot. With the right cut, preparation, cook times, and seasonings, you can enjoy delicious instant pot beef heart on its own or as part of flavorful stews, curries, and kebabs. Follow this guide for tender and juicy beef heart every time.