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Instant Pot Brisket

A savory and tender brisket recipe that can be made in under 2 hours using an Instant Pot, perfect for quick weeknight dinners or family gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 3 to 4 lb beef brisket, flat or point, trimmed
  • 2 tsp kosher salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp oil for searing
  • 1 large onion, sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, smashed
  • 1.5 cups low sodium beef broth
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1/4 to 1/2 cup BBQ sauce for serving (optional) optional

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Begin by patting the brisket dry.
  2. In a small bowl, combine the kosher salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and brown sugar. Rub this mixture all over the brisket evenly.
Searing
  1. Set your Instant Pot to the Sauté function and add the oil.
  2. Once hot, sear the brisket for a few minutes on each side until browned.
  3. Once seared, carefully remove it from the pot and place it on a plate.
Cooking
  1. Add the sliced onion and smashed garlic into the pot. Sauté them for about 1 to 2 minutes, just until they become fragrant and slightly softened.
  2. Pour the beef broth and apple cider vinegar into the pot, scraping the bottom with a wooden spoon to release any browned bits.
  3. Return the brisket to the pot, placing it fat side up. Close the lid and set the valve to sealing.
  4. Cook on High Pressure for 75 to 90 minutes, depending on the weight of your brisket.
After Cooking
  1. After cooking, let the pressure release naturally for about 15 minutes.
  2. Carefully remove the brisket from the pot and let it rest for 10 to 15 minutes before slicing against the grain or shredding it.
  3. If you like, change the Instant Pot back to Sauté and let the cooking liquid simmer for 5 to 10 minutes to thicken it up.
  4. You may spoon this sauce over the sliced brisket, and add BBQ sauce if desired.

Notes

For best results, use a meat thermometer to ensure brisket reaches at least 190°F for optimal tenderness. Allow natural pressure release for more tender meat. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.