Instant Pot French Onion Pot Roast
A comforting and aromatic pot roast featuring tender beef chuck, sweet onions, and fragrant herbs, perfect for family dinners or cozy weekends.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3-4 lbs beef chuck roast Perfectly marbled for a rich and juicy result
- 2 tablespoons olive oil Adds a smooth and subtle flavor
- 4 large onions Thinly sliced, provides a sweet caramelized layer
- 4 cloves garlic Minced, adds aromatic kick
- 1 cup beef broth Delivers deep, savory notes
- 1 cup dry apple cider vinegar or additional broth Enhances the dish's complexity
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme Imparts a garden-fresh taste
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce Adds umami depth
- to taste salt and pepper Elevates the flavors
- 2 bay leaves For their distinctive earthiness
Instructions
Searing the Meat
- Set the Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ mode. Drizzle in the olive oil.
- Generously season the beef chuck roast with salt and pepper.
- Carefully place the roast in the pot, browning it on all sides for about 4-5 minutes.
- Once beautifully seared, remove the roast and set it aside.
Caramelizing Onions
- In the same pot, toss in the thinly sliced onions.
- Let them cook for approximately 10-15 minutes until they turn golden and caramelized, stirring occasionally.
- Once they are beautifully golden, add in the minced garlic and sauté for another minute.
Deglazing the Pot
- Pour in the apple cider vinegar or additional broth, using a wooden spatula to scrape up the flavorful browned bits clinging to the bottom of the pot.
Cooking the Roast
- Place the beef back into the pot, then add the beef broth, fresh thyme, Worcestershire sauce, and bay leaves.
- Secure the lid tightly and set the Instant Pot to ‘Manual’ or ‘Pressure Cook’ on high for 60 minutes.
Finishing Touches
- Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural pressure release for about 15 minutes.
- After the natural release, carefully release any remaining pressure.
- Open the lid and remove the bay leaves.
- With two forks, shred the tender roast right in the pot, allowing it to soak up all the delicious juices.
- Serve hot, perhaps over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or with crusty bread.
Notes
For a lighter version, consider using a leaner cut of beef. Avoid rushing the searing process for better flavor. Always allow for a natural pressure release for tender meat.