If you’re following a ketogenic diet but craving a hearty and satisfying meal, our Instant Pot Keto Beef Stew is the perfect solution. Packed with tender beef, flavorful vegetables, and a rich broth, this dish offers all the comfort of a traditional beef stew without the carb overload. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the recipe, step by step, and share the nutritional benefits of this keto-friendly favorite.
What is Keto Beef Stew?
Keto Beef Stew is a low-carb, high-fat version of the classic beef stew that is specially tailored to fit the ketogenic diet. The ketogenic diet, often referred to as the keto diet, is a low-carb, high-fat eating plan designed to help individuals enter a state of ketosis, where the body primarily burns fat for energy instead of carbohydrates. In traditional beef stew, ingredients like potatoes and carrots, which are relatively high in carbohydrates, are typically used. In Keto Beef Stew, these higher-carb ingredients are replaced with low-carb alternatives, such as cauliflower, to make the dish compatible with the keto diet.
The main components of Keto Beef Stew include tender chunks of beef, flavorful low-carb vegetables, and a rich broth. The stew is often seasoned with keto-friendly herbs and spices. It’s a warm and comforting dish that allows individuals following a ketogenic lifestyle to enjoy a classic comfort food while adhering to their dietary restrictions.
Keto Beef Stew is not only delicious but also aligns with the macronutrient ratios recommended for the keto diet, which typically consists of high fat, moderate protein, and very low carbohydrates. It’s a hearty and filling meal that can help individuals maintain ketosis and support their keto weight loss or health goals.
How To Make The Instant Pot Keto Beef Stew
Instant Pot Keto Beef Stew Recipe
Course: Main, DinnerCuisine: Low Carb, AmericanDifficulty: Moderate6
servings10
minutes40
minutes276
kcalSatisfy your cravings with this hearty keto-friendly stew, where succulent beef and low-carb veggies dance in a savory broth.
Ingredients
2 pounds of beef stew meat, cubed
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves of garlic, minced
4 cups beef broth
1 cup celery, chopped
1 cup carrots, chopped (or a low-carb substitute like radishes)
1 cup green beans, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 cup cauliflower florets
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Start by setting your Instant Pot to the “Sauté” function. Add the olive oil, and once it’s hot, add the cubed beef. Sauté the meat until it’s browned on all sides. This step helps enhance the flavor of the stew.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Continue to sauté for a couple of minutes until the onion becomes translucent.
- Pour in the beef broth, then add the celery, carrots (or their low-carb substitute), green beans, cauliflower, thyme, and rosemary. Season the stew with salt and pepper to your liking.
- Secure the Instant Pot’s lid and set it to “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” mode for 30 minutes. This cooking time ensures that the beef becomes tender and the flavors meld together.
- Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for about 10 minutes. This natural release helps maintain the moisture and tenderness of the stew. Afterward, you can use the quick-release method to release any remaining pressure.
- Open the lid, and you’ll be greeted by the delightful aroma of your Keto Beef Stew. Give it a gentle stir to ensure the flavors are well distributed, and it’s ready to serve.
Nutritional Benefits of Instant Pot Keto Beef Stew
Low in Carbohydrates: This stew is designed to be low in carbs, making it suitable for a keto diet. By using keto-friendly vegetables and eliminating high-carb ingredients like potatoes, it keeps your carb intake in check.
High-Quality Protein: The Instant Pot Keto Beef Stew meat is a rich source of high-quality protein, which is essential for maintaining and repairing body tissues. Protein also helps keep you feeling full and satisfied.
Abundant Vitamins and Minerals: The variety of vegetables used in the stew provides a wide array of vitamins and minerals. For example, celery is a good source of vitamin K, carrots provide vitamin A, and cauliflower offers vitamin C. These nutrients are vital for various bodily functions, including immune support and healthy vision.
Satisfying and Filling: The combination of protein and low-carb vegetables in this stew creates a filling and satisfying meal. It helps curb hunger and reduces the urge to snack on high-carb, non-keto foods.
Keto-Friendly Ingredients: Every ingredient in this stew is carefully chosen to adhere to the principles of the ketogenic diet, ensuring that it fits within the recommended macronutrient ratios for keto.
Instant Pot Keto Beef Stew Successful Cooking Tips
Searing the Beef: Before pressure cooking, sear the beef in the Instant Pot using the “Sauté” function. Searing helps lock in the meat’s juices and enhances the stew’s flavor.
Herb Selection: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to add a burst of flavor to your stew. Fresh herbs can make a significant difference in taste.
Vegetable Choices: Customize the stew by choosing low-carb vegetables that align with your preferences and dietary needs. Zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach are excellent low-carb options.
Pressure Cooking Time: The recommended pressure cooking time of 30 minutes ensures that the beef becomes tender and the vegetables cook just right. Be patient and avoid the temptation to reduce the cooking time.
Natural Release: After the pressure cooking cycle is complete, allow for a natural release for about 10 minutes. This step helps retain moisture and ensures the beef is tender. Only use the quick-release method for any remaining pressure.
Taste Testing: Once the stew is ready, don’t hesitate to taste it and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Personal preferences vary, so make it perfect for your taste buds.