The Instant Pot is a timesaving tool that’s taking modern kitchens by storm. This 7-in-1 gadget is capable of multiple cooking techniques. It’s not only a pressure cooker – it also functions as a slow cooker, rice cooker, sauté pot, steamer, warming pot and yogurt maker.
With the ability to cook six times faster than traditional devices, the Instant Pot helps busy families prepare elaborate meals quickly, such as beef brisket and pork shoulder; however, it can also be used for many other purposes. It’s safe, easy to use and clean, and an excellent choice for one-pot meals! Follow our guide on Instant Pot basics to get inspired and use this multipurpose pot in fun, unexpected ways.
What’s Your Instant Pot Size?
With different models available, you can choose a pot size that is just right for you. The 3-quart pot is ideal for a one- to two-person household and is the perfect travel size. A 6-quart pot is optimal for a family of four. If you meal prep frequently, host gatherings often or have a large family, the 8-quart model that’s great for big batches may be best for you.
The Instant Pot is easy to use but may take some getting used to. Get ahead of the learning curve with these quick descriptions of some of the buttons and settings:
Manual: The Instant Pot has accurate, automatic settings for dishes like soup, meat, beans/chili, rice and poultry. The manual button allows you to change these default settings to the cooking times and temperatures you desire. If you need to adjust the pressure, click the pressure button until low or high pressure lights up. Adjust the time by using the +/- buttons.
Pressure: This setting allows you to switch from low to high-level pressure-cooking. This function is great for preparing practically any food including desserts like cake, cheesecake, flan and bread.
Sauté: The sauté setting is excellent for browning and searing your food as you would in a skillet, giving it a toasty, caramelized flavor. Choose between three temperature ranges – “less” (275°-302°), “normal” (320°-349°) and “more” (347°-410°), and sauté with the lid open. Use the sauté setting to sear roasts for extra flavor before pressure cooking or slow cooking until fully done, as with this 4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Pot Roast recipe.
Steam: Steaming is one of the most healthful cooking methods for preserving the nutrients of your food. Select the steam button to steam vegetables, seafood, eggs, rice, or to simply reheat a meal. Be sure to use the steam rack included with the Instant Pot.
Slow Cook: Easily cook foods like soup, stew or chili as you typically would in a slow cooker but in less time! Add the ingredients, close the lid and press the “Slow Cook” button. The default slow cook time is four hours; to adjust, use the +/- buttons.
Yogurt: Try your hand at making homemade yogurt using the Instant Pot! With two ingredients (milk and a yogurt starter), you can create a creamy, healthy and tasty yogurt at home.
With the Instant Pot, you’re not limited to just one cooking technique! In one cooking session, you can sauté your onions to caramelize them, switch to high or low pressure-cooking when it’s time to add the meat and turn on the “Keep Warm” setting until it’s time to eat.
No matter what dishes you’re preparing, utilizing the Instant Pot makes for hands-free, fast-cooking meals with an abundance of flavor.
