Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Golden Mushroom Beef Stew?
It is a rich and flavorful pressure cooker dish made with beef stew meat, golden mushroom soup, red potatoes, carrots, and onions.
What cooking method is used for this recipe?
This recipe is specifically designed for a pressure cooker to reduce cooking time while maintaining deep flavor.
How long does the stew cook under pressure?
Once the pressure cooker reaches high pressure, the stew should be cooked for 15 minutes.
What type of beef is best for this stew?
The recipe calls for 1.5 lbs of beef stew meat.
What is the key ingredient for the gravy?
The primary base for the thick gravy is a 10-ounce can of condensed golden mushroom soup.
Do I need to sear the meat first?
Yes, sear the meat in canola oil for at least one minute without stirring to achieve a good brown crust.
What kind of potatoes should I use?
The recipe recommends using 4 red potatoes cut into chunks.
How many carrots are needed?
Use 4 carrots, peeled and cut into chunks.
What type of mushrooms are used?
The recipe uses 8-12 button mushrooms, rinsed and halved.
How much water do I add to the pressure cooker?
Add between 10 to 20 ounces of water, or enough to reach about halfway up the ingredients.
How can I make the gravy thicker?
Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with half a cup of cold water and stir it into the boiling stew after pressure cooking.
What oil is recommended for browning the meat?
The recipe suggests using 2 tablespoons of canola oil.
Can I add more beef flavor to the stew?
Yes, adding 1-2 beef bouillon cubes is an optional way to boost the savory profile.
What seasonings are included in this recipe?
The stew is seasoned with salt, pepper, and 1-2 teaspoons of dried parsley.
Should the onion be finely minced?
No, use one large onion cut into larger pieces for a hearty texture.
Is this a one-pot meal?
Yes, everything from searing to pressure cooking is done in the same pressure cooker pot.
What should I garnish the stew with?
Fresh parsley is recommended as a garnish for serving.
Is this recipe faster than a slow cooker?
Yes, it is adapted from a slow cooker recipe to drastically reduce the cooking time using pressure.
Do I need to peel the red potatoes?
The recipe indicates they should be cut into chunks; peeling is optional as red potato skins are thin.
What heat setting is used to start?
Begin by heating the oil over medium-high heat for searing the meat.
When do I add the vegetables?
Add the onions, carrots, mushrooms, and potatoes once the meat has been browned on all sides.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 12 total ingredients, including seasonings and optional bouillon.
What is the texture of the finished stew?
It results in tender meat and vegetables in a thick, savory golden gravy.
Is the beef bouillon cube mandatory?
No, the beef bouillon cube is listed as an optional ingredient for extra flavor.
Can I use frozen vegetables?
The recipe specifies fresh carrots, onions, and mushrooms for the best results.
What size should the carrots be?
The carrots should be peeled and cut into hearty chunks.
Is golden mushroom soup the same as cream of mushroom?
No, golden mushroom soup is beef-stock based and contains tomato puree, giving it a different color and flavor than cream of mushroom.
Do I stir the meat immediately after adding it to the pot?
No, let it sit for at least one minute to ensure a proper sear.
How is the pressure released?
After the 15-minute cook time, carefully release the pressure before removing the lid.
Can this be served immediately?
Yes, serve it warm after the thickening step if you choose to do so.