Cooking frozen corned beef in an instant pot may seem daunting, but it’s actually quite simple with the right techniques With the instant pot’s pressure cooking capabilities, you can transform a solidly frozen corned beef brisket into a super tender, fall-apart delicious dinner in about 2 hours or less
Here is a complete guide on how to cook frozen corned beef in an instant pot to juicy, savory perfection every time.
Benefits of Cooking Frozen Corned Beef in an Instant Pot
Cooking frozen meat in an instant pot has several advantages
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No defrosting required – The instant pot cooks from frozen, saving you 1-2 days of refrigerator defrosting time.
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Tenderizes tough cuts – The pressurized environment gently breaks down connective tissues in tougher cuts like brisket.
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Infuses flavor – Cooking in liquid builds concentrated flavor into the meat.
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Retains moisture – The sealed pot keeps all the natural juices and moisture locked in.
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Saves time – Frozen corned beef cooks completely in under 2 hours in an instant pot.
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Safe and hands-off – The pot reaches higher temperatures to eliminate bacteria safely with no monitoring needed.
Tips for Best Results
Follow these tips for flawlessly cooked frozen corned beef every time in the instant pot:
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Use at least 1 cup liquid – The liquid creates steam to cook and add flavor. Try beef broth, ale, or water.
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Layer seasoning – Sprinkle seasonings like garlic, pepper, bay leaves over the meat and liquid.
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Allow natural pressure release – Don’t rush the pressure release or the meat may turn dry and tough.
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Slice against the grain – Cutting against the grain shortens the muscle fibers for super tender bites.
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Add veggies at the end – Quick-cooking veggies like potatoes, carrots and cabbage can be added in the last 30 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instant Pot Frozen Corned Beef
Follow these simple steps for foolproof frozen corned beef in the instant pot:
1. Prepare the Instant Pot
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Place the stainless steel inner pot into the instant pot housing.
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Add the trivet and 1 cup of liquid (beef broth, ale, water).
2. Prepare the Frozen Corned Beef
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Place the frozen corned beef brisket directly onto the trivet.
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Sprinkle seasonings evenly over the meat – garlic, pepper, bay leaves, corned beef seasoning packet.
3. Pressure Cook the Corned Beef
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Lock the lid into place and close the pressure release valve.
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Select the Manual/Pressure Cook function and set time based on meat size.
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2-3 pounds – Cook for 60-75 minutes
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4-5 pounds – Cook for 75-90 minutes
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Allow the instant pot to naturally release pressure for 15-20 minutes until the float valve drops.
4. Finish the Dish
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Carefully open the lid once pressure is fully released.
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Transfer cooked corned beef to a cutting board and slice across the grain.
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At this point, add chunked potatoes, carrots, cabbage to steam in the juices for 5-10 minutes more.
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Serve the sliced corned beef warm with the cooked veggies and enjoy!
More Tips for Instant Pot Frozen Corned Beef
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Add spices and aromatics to the cooking liquid for extra flavor infusion like garlic, black peppercorns, coriander seeds.
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For best texture, slice the cooked corned beef as needed instead of shredding the whole brisket.
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Mix the defrosted corned beef juices from the bag into the cooking liquid for an extra layer of seasoning.
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Cook extra vegetables in a steamer basket over the corned beef to cook simultaneously in the juices.
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Refrigerate leftover cooked corned beef in broth or au jus to keep it super moist for days.
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Use leftover corned beef for hashes, sandwiches, soups, salads, omelets, pizza toppings for easy meals all week.
Common Questions
How long does it take to cook a 3-pound frozen corned beef brisket in an instant pot?
- A 3-pound frozen corned beef brisket takes about 75 minutes to cook thoroughly in an instant pot on high pressure.
Is it okay to quick release pressure after cooking frozen corned beef?
- Quick releasing pressure may cause frozen cuts like corned beef to toughen up. Allow the pressure to natural release for 15-20 minutes for best texture.
Should you add vegetables when cooking frozen corned beef in an instant pot?
- Vegetables are best added in the last 30 minutes so they don’t overcook. Or, cook in a stainless steel steamer basket over the corned beef.
What happens if you undercook frozen corned beef in the instant pot?
- Undercooked corned beef will be tough, dry, and unevenly cooked in the center. Make sure to pressure cook for the full time recommended for the meat size.
Can you cook frozen corned beef from frozen in a slow cooker?
- Slow cookers do not reach high enough temperatures to safely cook frozen meats. Use an instant pot or thaw first for slow cooker recipes.
Enjoy Perfectly Cooked Frozen Corned Beef
Cooking frozen corned beef in the instant pot couldn’t be easier. Just add seasonings, liquid and pressure cook before slicing for tender, juicy brisket in under 2 hours.
Use this complete guide for expert tips and simplify your cooking process for this flavorful traditional Irish dish.