We’ve been experimenting with the Instant Pot, and dinner tonight couldn’t have been easier. We did a take on an Italian classic – braised beef served over polenta. The whiskey isn’t absolutely necessary here, but it does add a certain depth to the flavor. If you don’t have polenta on hand, you could sub in rice. We added a quick salad on the side too.

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 ½ pounds stew beef
1 (14 ounce) can tomatoes, diced
1 ½ onion, medium, chopped
1 tablespoon tomato paste
2 tablespoons whiskey
1 carrot, chopped
2 garlic cloves, chopped
½ onion, medium, chopped
1 carrot, chopped
½ teaspoon oregano, dried
1 teaspoon salt
I teaspoon pepper
2 cups polenta, prepared

Heat Instant Pot (use Sauté function). Add oil. Sear beef on all sides. Add the tomatoes, tomato paste, whiskey, garlic, onions, carrots, oregano, salt, and pepper. Set Instant Pot to Meat / Stew function. Set the timer for 45 minutes. Serve over prepared polenta, adding cooking liquid to taste.