Yes, You Can! Cooking Meat in A Pressure Cooker
Cooking meat in a pressure cooker is a great way to save time in the kitchen, especially for tougher cuts of meat. But can you actually cook meat in a pressure cooker? The answer is yes – and here’s how.
Choosing the Right Meat for A Pressure Cooker
Not all types of meat are suitable for pressure cooking. Tougher cuts of meat such as beef chuck, brisket, and pork shoulder are ideal. These cuts have a lot of collagen and connective tissue that break down when cooked under pressure, resulting in tender and flavorful meat. Avoid lean cuts of meat like chicken breasts or tenderloin, which can easily dry out in a pressure cooker.
Preparing the Pressure Cooker and Meat
Before cooking, you need to prep both the pressure cooker and the meat. First, make sure your pressure cooker is in good working condition and has enough liquid (usually water) to create the necessary steam for cooking. Then, prepare your meat by seasoning it with salt and spices of your choice. You can also sear the meat in a separate pan to develop more flavor.
Cooking Meat in A Pressure Cooker
Once your pressure cooker and meat are prepped, it’s time to cook! First, add the seasoned meat to the pressure cooker along with any desired vegetables or broth if making a stew. Secure the lid and make sure the valve is set to sealing. Then, set your pressure cooker to high pressure and the cooking time according to the type of meat you’re cooking. Generally, meat takes about 25-30 minutes per pound to cook under high pressure.
Final Touches and Enjoy!
After the cooking time is up, let the pressure release naturally for 10-15 minutes before using the quick release valve to release any remaining pressure. Check the meat for doneness by using a meat thermometer. If it’s not quite finished, you can return the pressure cooker to high pressure for a few more minutes. Otherwise, allow the meat to rest for a few minutes before slicing or shredding. And lastly, enjoy your perfectly cooked meat!
