While shopping at Aldi, I happened to find a great price on grass-fed stew meat. I couldn’t pass up the deal, but I wasn’t sure how to use it outside of traditional stew. If you’ve ever found yourself in the same situation, I’ve got the perfect method for you! Stew meat is known for being tough, but with the right technique, you can transform it into juicy, crispy bites perfect for burrito bowls, taco bowls, or any meal prep dish throughout the week. This method is easy, and uses the Instant Pot to achieve the most tender results. Plus, it’s a great way to take advantage of this less expensive cut of meat and make it incredibly versatile.
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Why This Method Works
Stew meat typically comes from tougher cuts of beef, but pressure cooking helps break down the connective tissues, making it fork-tender. Then, crisping the meat in its own fat adds incredible texture and flavor, similar to the delicious barbacoa or crispy beef from Chipotle.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb grass-fed stew meat (or more, adjust as needed)
- 1 1/2 cups water per pound of meat
- 1 – 2 tsp salt
Instructions:
- Salt the Meat – Generously season the stew meat with salt and let it sit for about 10 minutes. This helps with flavor and tenderness.
- Pressure Cook in the Instant Pot – Add the meat to the Instant Pot along with 1 1/2 cups of water per pound. Set the Instant Pot to the Stew/Meat setting and cook for 35 minutes. Once done, release pressure and open the lid.
- Separate the Meat and Liquid – Carefully remove the meat from the Instant Pot and place it in a bowl. Strain the cooking liquid into another container and let it cool so the fat can separate.
- Crisp It Up! – Once the fat has separated, scoop some of it into a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the tender beef and crisp it up in the fat, stirring occasionally until the edges are golden and crispy.
- Use & Store – Your crispy, juicy beef is now ready to use! Serve it in burrito bowls, tacos, salads, or grain bowls throughout the week. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
need a link?
- Our Place Dream Cooker
- gold measuring cups and spoons set
- Instant Pot Duo 7 in 1 pressure cooker
- white enamel cast iron skillet 12″
- reusable silicone lids set
- Lodge 10″ cast iron skillet
- Instant Pot Pro Max Smart Pressure Cooker
- Comfee 10 in 1 compact pressure cooker
- stainless steel tong set
- air tight glass food storage set
- Carori 9 in 1 Programmable pressure cooker
Ways to Use This Tender Beef:
- Chipotle-Style Burrito Bowls – Serve with rice, black beans, fajita veggies, and guacamole.
- Tacos or Lettuce Wraps – Add toppings like cheese, salsa, and crema.
- Breakfast Scrambles – Toss with eggs and potatoes for a protein-packed start to the day.
- Salads – Use in a hearty salad with avocado, corn, and a zesty dressing.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Budget-Friendly – Turns inexpensive stew meat into something delicious.
- Easy Meal Prep – Make it once and use it all week.
- Versatile – Works in tacos, bowls, salads, and more.
- Incredibly Flavorful – The crisping step makes all the difference!
If you try this method, let me know how you use your tender beef in the comments! And if you’re looking for more easy meal prep recipes, check out my Amazon storefront for my favorite meal prep containers and kitchen essentials. Happy cooking!
How to Make Stew Meat Crispy and Tender: A Meal Prep Hack
Ingredients
- 1 lb grass-fed stew meat or more, adjust as needed
- 1 1/2 cups water per pound of meat
- 1 – 2 tsp salt
Instructions
- Salt the Meat – Generously season the stew meat with salt and let it sit for about 10 minutes. This helps with flavor and tenderness.
- Pressure Cook in the Instant Pot – Add the meat to the Instant Pot along with 1 1/2 cups of water per pound. Set the Instant Pot to the Stew/Meat setting and cook for 35 minutes. Once done, release pressure and open the lid.
- Separate the Meat and Liquid – Carefully remove the meat from the Instant Pot and place it in a bowl. Strain the cooking liquid into another container and let it cool so the fat can separate.
- Crisp It Up! – Once the fat has separated, scoop some of it into a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the tender beef and crisp it up in the fat, stirring occasionally until the edges are golden and crispy.
- Use & Store – Your crispy, juicy beef is now ready to use! Serve it in burrito bowls, tacos, salads, or grain bowls throughout the week. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
