Ingredients
Steak and Seasoning
- 2 pounds bottom round steak, trimmed and sliced into large squares
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons corn starch
Vegetables and Liquids
- 1 medium white or yellow onion, peeled and diced
- 2 bell peppers, seeded and diced
- 1 cup low sodium beef broth
- 1/2 cup crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions
- Season the steak: Season the sliced round steak on both sides with garlic powder, sea salt, and ground black pepper to infuse flavor.
- Dredge the steak: Lightly coat the meat on both sides with corn starch to help create a thickened sauce later.
- Brown the steak: Press the SAUTE function on the Instant Pot, and once it reads ‘Hot,’ add the vegetable oil. Working in batches, brown the steak pieces on both sides until nicely seared, then set aside covered with foil.
- Sauté vegetables: Add the diced onions and bell peppers to the pot and cook until they soften slightly, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
- Deglaze the pot: Pour in some of the beef broth and stir well using a spatula or wooden spoon, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom to add depth to the sauce.
- Combine ingredients: Cancel the SAUTE mode, add the browned steak back into the pot, then pour the remaining beef broth over and around the meat. Top with crushed tomatoes without stirring to keep layers intact.
- Pressure cook: Secure the lid and set the valve to the sealing position. Select PRESSURE COOK and set the timer for 30 minutes. After cooking, allow a 10-minute natural pressure release, then manually release any remaining pressure by turning the valve to venting.
- Finish the sauce: Open the lid once the pressure pin drops. Remove the steak to a serving dish. For a thicker gravy, turn on SAUTE mode and boil the sauce until reduced, or mix 1 tablespoon corn starch with 1 tablespoon cold water and stir this slurry into the boiling sauce to thicken further.
- Serve: Pour the rich sauce over the steak and serve hot for a hearty meal.
Notes
- Slicing the bottom round steak into large squares helps it cook evenly and absorb flavors better.
- Dredging with corn starch not only helps in browning but also thickens the sauce during cooking.
- To prevent overcooking, follow the pressure cook time closely since tougher cuts of steak can become chewy if pressure cooked too long.
- The crushed tomatoes add acidity and richness that compliment the beef broth and vegetables perfectly.
- This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or steamed rice to soak up the flavorful sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: American