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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.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 45 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6 servings
Calories 350 kcal

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
  • ¼ to ½ cup BBQ sauce for serving (optional) optional

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Begin by patting the brisket dry.
  • 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

  • Set your Instant Pot to the Sauté function and add the oil.
  • Once hot, sear the brisket for a few minutes on each side until browned.
  • Once seared, carefully remove it from the pot and place it on a plate.

Cooking

  • 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.
  • Pour the beef broth and apple cider vinegar into the pot, scraping the bottom with a wooden spoon to release any browned bits.
  • Return the brisket to the pot, placing it fat side up. Close the lid and set the valve to sealing.
  • Cook on High Pressure for 75 to 90 minutes, depending on the weight of your brisket.

After Cooking

  • After cooking, let the pressure release naturally for about 15 minutes.
  • Carefully remove the brisket from the pot and let it rest for 10 to 15 minutes before slicing against the grain or shredding it.
  • 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.
  • 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.
Keyword comfort food, Instant Pot Brisket, Pressure Cooking, quick dinner, Savory Beef
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