How Long to Cook Beef Heart in the Instant Pot for Perfectly Tender Results

Beef heart is an underrated and affordable cut of meat that offers a surprising amount of nutrients. This cut is packed with protein, iron zinc selenium, and B vitamins. Beef heart is also one of the best sources of Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), an antioxidant that supports heart health.

While nutritious, beef heart can be intimidating to cook due to its dense, muscular texture When improperly prepared, it can turn out chewy and tough The good news is that by using an Instant Pot, you can transform beef heart into a tender, meaty delight with ease.

Why Pressure Cooking is Key for Cooking Beef Heart

Beef heart is a working muscle that gets quite a workout, so it contains connective tissues that require moist heat to break down. This is why slow braising was traditionally used for cooking beef heart. The Instant Pot uses pressurized steam to quickly tenderize tough cuts of meat in a fraction of the time.

Pressure cooking beef heart helps dissolve the collagen and connective tissues so you end up with meat that is fall-apart tender. No need for all-day braising! With an Instant Pot, beef heart can become meltingly tender in about an hour or so.

How Long Should You Cook Beef Heart in the Instant Pot?

Most beef heart recipes recommend cooking for 60-90 minutes on high pressure in the Instant Pot. The timing depends on the size and quantity of beef heart pieces.

Here are some timing guidelines based on the amount of beef heart:

• 1-2 lbs beef heart – Cook for 60-70 minutes
• 3-4 lbs beef heart – Cook for 70-90 minutes
• 5-6 lbs beef heart – Cook for 90+ minutes

Larger hearts may need a longer cook time closer to 90 minutes for the cores to become completely tender. Smaller 1 lb hearts likely only require 60-65 minutes.

I recommend cooking beef heart on high pressure and allowing for a full natural pressure release for at least 10-15 minutes after cooking completes. The natural release ensures the meat fibers have enough time to fully break down.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Cooking Beef Heart in the Instant Pot

Cooking beef heart in the Instant Pot is simple. Here is a step-by-step guide:

1. Rinse the beef heart and pat dry. Trim off any visible fat or sinew.

2. Cut the beef heart into 2-inch chunks. Cutting it into pieces helps the meat cook more evenly.

3. Place the beef heart chunks in the Instant Pot. Add 1 cup of water or broth to help create steam.

4. Add any additional seasonings you desire such as salt, pepper, herbs, onions, garlic, etc.

5. Secure the lid and make sure the pressure valve is set to “sealing.”

6. Select the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” function and adjust to high pressure (10-11 psi). Set the cook time to 70 minutes for a 3-4 lb heart.

7. Allow the Instant Pot to come to pressure. The timer will start counting down.

8. When the cook time is complete, let the pressure release naturally for 10-15 minutes until the float valve drops.

9. Carefully open the lid, tilting it away from you to avoid the steam.

10. Use forks or tongs to transfer the beef heart chunks to a cutting board.

11. Slice the beef heart across the grain. Season and serve while hot.

The cooked beef heart will have a firm yet tender texture similar to pot roast or brisket. It makes a wonderful main dish or taco filling.

Tips for the Best Instant Pot Beef Heart

Here are some helpful tips:

• Choose fresh, high quality beef heart when possible for better flavor and texture.

• Cut into uniform 2-inch chunks so the meat cooks evenly.

• Add broth or water to help create steam and prevent burning.

• Allow a full natural pressure release for at least 10-15 minutes.

• Slice across the grain for most tender results.

• Save the nutritious cooking liquid for gravy or sauce.

• Beef heart can be refrigerated for 3-4 days or frozen for later use.