This recipe makes flavorful, fork-tender beef with soft carrots, potatoes, and mild herbs — all pressure-cooked for deep, balanced taste. By leaving out tomato sauce, Worcestershire, and strong spices, it stays low in acidity but high in comfort. Each bowl is satisfying, gut-friendly, and reflux-safe, showing you can enjoy beef stew without harsh ingredients.

Ingredients Needed:

1 ½ pounds beef stew meat: cubed and trimmed of fat
1 tablespoon olive oil: heart-healthy base for browning
¾ teaspoon salt (or to taste): mild seasoning
¼ teaspoon white pepper (swap for black): gentle warmth
1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (no chili flakes): natural flavor
2 teaspoons garlic-infused olive oil (swap for minced garlic): gentle flavor, low FODMAP
1 small leek or green scallion tops, chopped (swap for onion): mild and low acid
3 cups low sodium beef broth: smooth and gentle base
1 pound baby potatoes, cubed: creamy and filling
3 large carrots, sliced: natural sweetness
1 tablespoon low acid balsamic vinegar (optional): adds mild depth
1 teaspoon dried parsley: herbal note
1 teaspoon dried thyme: aromatic warmth
2 tablespoons cornstarch + 2 tablespoons cold water: to thicken

How To Make Low Acid Instant Pot Beef Stew:

Brown the Beef:
Turn on the Sauté function. Add olive oil and once hot, brown the beef cubes on all sides for about 5 minutes. Season with salt, white pepper, and Italian herbs.

Add Aromatics:
Add chopped leek and drizzle in garlic-infused olive oil. Stir gently for 1 minute to release flavor without burning.

Deglaze & Add Broth:
Pour in beef broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom (these add flavor).

Add Vegetables & Seasoning:
Stir in potatoes, carrots, parsley, thyme, and optional low acid vinegar.

Pressure Cook:
Close the lid and set the valve to Sealing. Cook on High Pressure for 35 minutes. Allow a 10-minute natural release, then do a quick release.

Thicken the Stew:
Mix cornstarch and cold water in a small bowl. Switch to Sauté, pour in the slurry, and stir for 3–5 minutes until the stew thickens.

Serve & Enjoy:
Ladle into bowls and serve warm — a hearty, low acid, and deeply satisfying dinner.

Recipe Tips:

Skip tomato sauce and Worcestershire — both are highly acidic.
Use leeks and garlic-infused oil for a gentle flavor base.
White pepper gives mild spice without irritation.
Add a touch of low acid vinegar if you miss the tang of tomato.
Thicken near the end for a rich, stew-like texture.

How to Store & Reheat:

Room Temperature: Cool no longer than 2 hours before storing.
Fridge: Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat gently on the stove or Instant Pot “Sauté” setting.

Nutrition Facts (approx per serving):

Calories: ~ 370 kcal
Sodium: ~ 200 mg
Protein: ~ 32 g
Fat: ~ 13 g
Carbs: ~ 28 g
Fibre: ~ 3 g
Sugar: ~ 3 g

FAQs:

Can I make beef stew without tomato sauce?
Yes! This recipe uses broth, herbs, and gentle aromatics for rich flavor while staying low acid.

Is this stew good for acid reflux?
Definitely — it skips tomatoes, garlic, and Worcestershire sauce, which are all acid triggers.

Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, add mild ones like zucchini or green beans. Avoid tomato, bell pepper, or vinegar-based vegetables.

What’s the best cut of beef for this recipe?
Chuck roast or stew meat works best — both turn tender under pressure cooking.

Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes — it’s already dairy-free! Just use olive oil instead of butter if you prefer.

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