Jewish Brisket and Individual Flans: Mastering Instant Pot Recipes

When one thinks of the Instant Pot, the memories may be limited. However, two particular recipes have made their way into my regular rotation: one for a creamy individual flan and another for a delicious and tender Jewish brisket. In this article, we'll delve into these two mouth-watering recipes, providing step-by-step instructions and tips for perfection every time.

The Creamy Individual Flan

Flan is a traditional dessert that has been a favorite for many. Recently, I discovered a simplified version of this classic dish that can be prepared in an Instant Pot and enjoyed almost immediately. This recipe is special because it requires ingredients you likely already have in your pantry, making it incredibly convenient and cost-effective.

Ingredients

3 whole large eggs plus 2 tablespoons liquid egg white 1 1/3 cups whole milk plus 1/2 cup water 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract 3/4 teaspoon rum extract for extra flavor (optional) 1 tablespoon of sugar (adjust to taste) 8 four-ounce ramekins Cooking spray for greasing ramekins

Instructions

Spray 8 four-ounce ramekins with cooking spray and set aside. In a blender or a mixing bowl, mix the eggs, egg whites, milk, water, vanilla, rum, and sugar until well combined. Pour the mixture evenly into the prepared ramekins. Place the ramekins in a larger pot or heat-safe dish. Fill the pot with enough water to reach halfway up the sides of the ramekins. This is the water bath method which ensures even cooking. Close the Instant Pot and select the "Manual" or "Pressure Cook" setting. Set the time to 7 minutes. Once the cooking cycle is over, let the pressure release naturally for 5-10 minutes. Then carefully remove the ramekins. Allow the individual flans to cool in the refrigerator overnight. They can be served chilled or at room temperature. Serve and enjoy this creamy and rich dessert with a light touch of rum extract for extra flavor.

Easy and Delicious Jewish Brisket

Brisket is a staple in Jewish cuisine, and preparing it in an Instant Pot makes the process both simple and quick. Whether you're hosting a gathering or cooking for yourself, this recipe ensures a perfect, tender brisket every time.

Ingredients

4–5 pound brisket 2 tablespoons tomato paste 4–5 average size carrots, roughly chopped 1 large onion, roughly chopped 6 cloves of garlic, roughly chopped 2 sprigs of rosemary 1 cup of dry red wine (pro tip: never cook with wine you wouldn't drink) 1 1/2 cups beef bone broth 1 tablespoon chicken base Salt and pepper 2 tablespoons of avocado oil (or any high smoke point oil)

Instructions

Start by browning the brisket and sautéing the onions and carrots in a large skillet. You can do this directly in the Instant Pot on the sauté setting, but some prefer the skillet for easier deglazing. Place the brisket, vegetables, tomato paste, garlic, rosemary sprigs, wine, beef bone broth, chicken base, and seasonings in the Instant Pot. Seal the Instant Pot and select the "Manual" or "Pressure Cook" setting. For a flat cut brisket, set the time to 1.5 hours. For a point cut, set to 2 hours. Make sure to let the pressure release naturally for 30 minutes before carefully opening the lid. Once the brisket is tender, shred it and serve with your choice of sauce or sides.

Tips for Success

When preparing Instant Pot recipes, timing is crucial. Always allow for the natural pressure release, which can take an extra 30 minutes. Also, be mindful of the different pressure release methods—manual vs. natural—to ensure the best results. Lastly, prepping the vegetables and browning the meat beforehand speeds up the entire process and enhances the flavors.

Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting out, these two Instant Pot recipes are sure to make your kitchen experiences more enjoyable. From the creamy individual flan to the tender Jewish brisket, you're sure to find something to suit your taste preferences. Happy cooking!