Can You Cook Skirt Steak In An Instant Pot? Here’s How!

Skirt steak, known for its bold flavor and chewy texture, is a versatile cut of meat that can elevate any meal. But can you cook skirt steak in an instant pot? The answer is a resounding yes! This kitchen marvel offers a convenient and efficient way to achieve tender and juicy skirt steak, unlocking its full potential.

The Benefits of Cooking Skirt Steak in an Instant Pot

• Time-Saving: Pressure cooking significantly reduces cooking time, allowing you to prepare succulent skirt steak in a fraction of the time it takes on a stovetop or grill.
• Tenderizing: The high pressure and moist environment of the instant pot break down tough muscle fibers, resulting in incredibly tender and flavorful meat.
• Flavorful: The closed environment of the instant pot intensifies flavors, allowing marinades and seasonings to penetrate deeply into the steak.
• Convenient: With minimal prep and cleanup, cooking skirt steak in an instant pot is incredibly convenient.

Choosing and Preparing the Perfect Skirt Steak

• Select High-Quality Meat: Opt for a skirt steak with good marbling, which indicates tenderness.
• Trim Excess Fat: Remove any excess fat around the edges to prevent shrinking during cooking.
• Marinate (Optional): Marinating the steak for at least 30 minutes enhances flavor and tenderness. Use a mixture of your favorite herbs, spices, and liquids.

Cooking Skirt Steak in an Instant Pot

Ingredients:

• 1 pound skirt steak
• 1/4 cup marinade (optional)
• 1 cup water or broth

Instructions:

1. Marinate: If desired, place the steak in the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Season: Remove the steak from the marinade and season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
3. Add Liquid: Pour 1 cup of water or broth into the instant pot.
4. Place Trivet: Insert the trivet into the instant pot.
5. Add Steak: Place the seasoned steak on the trivet.
6. Pressure Cook: Secure the lid on the instant pot and set to “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” on high for 6 minutes (for medium-rare) to 8 minutes (for medium).
7. Natural Release: Once the cooking time is complete, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining pressure.
8. Rest: Remove the steak from the instant pot and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Slicing and Serving

• Slice Against the Grain: To ensure tenderness, slice the steak against the grain, which breaks down the muscle fibers.
• Serve Immediately: Serve the skirt steak immediately with your favorite sides, such as grilled vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a flavorful sauce.

Tips for Perfect Skirt Steak in an Instant Pot

• Use a Sharp Knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts and prevents tearing the steak.
• Don’t Overcook: Skirt steak is best cooked to medium-rare or medium to preserve its tenderness. Overcooking can result in a tough and chewy texture.
• Experiment with Marinades: Marinating the steak in a flavorful mixture enhances its taste and tenderizes the meat.
• Try Different Liquids: Experiment with using different liquids, such as beef broth, vegetable broth, or even red wine, to add depth to the flavor.
• Serve with a Sauce: A flavorful sauce, such as chimichurri or a classic red wine sauce, complements the rich taste of skirt steak.

Summary

Cooking skirt steak in an instant pot is a game-changer in the kitchen. This versatile appliance delivers tender, juicy, and flavorful skirt steak in a fraction of the time it would take using traditional methods. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a novice home cook, the instant pot makes it effortless to enjoy this delicious cut of meat at home.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I cook other types of steak in an instant pot?
A: Yes, you can cook other cuts of steak in an instant pot, such as flank steak, New York strip, and even rib-eye. Adjust the cooking time and pressure based on the cut and desired doneness.

Q: How do I prevent the steak from sticking to the instant pot?
A: Make sure to use the trivet to elevate the steak from the bottom of the pot. You can also lightly spray the trivet with cooking spray or add a splash of oil to the liquid.

Q: Can I sear the steak before cooking it in the instant pot?
A: Yes, searing the steak on a hot skillet or grill before pressure cooking adds a nice crust and enhances the flavor. However, this step is optional and not necessary for tender results.