You have one of the hottest small appliances on the market, the Instant Pot, and now you want to know how to use the Instant Pot, which is where I can help. After cooking and testing well over 800 recipes, for cookbooks such as my 175 Best Instant Pot Recipes, I'm confident I can help you get started or perfect your current Instant Pot skills even further.
Whether you received the Instant Pot as a gift or bought one for yourself to find out what all the hoopla is about, you need to have some basics to get started and some useful tips that I have picked up along the way. There are thousands of dishes that the Instant Pot excels at cooking. Anything from appetizers to main meals to desserts can be cooked in my favorite Instant Pot. And frankly, there are some recipes that should be avoided and prepared using standard cooking methods.
What Is an Instant Pot
The Instant Pot has many different functions, including pressure cooking, slow cooking, sautéing, yogurt-making, and a whole range of programmed push-button cooking options.
When you first start using your Instant Pot, do not be intimidated by all the cooking program keys, the operation keys and the LCD display. Of all the function buttons, pressure cooking is most likely the function you will use most often. The sauté function is also useful, as Browning or simmering ingredients with this function helps to improve the quality of many dishes. And if you want to try your hand at making yogurt, you will be using the yogurt function.
The remaining program keys you see, such as meat, poultry, soups, etc., also are pressure-cooking functions. They are preprogrammed to high or low pressure and the recommended cooking time to make is easier for some users. You can use these programs, if you prefer, and adjust the time to what is stated in the recipe you are using. As for me, I never use these preprogrammed functions. I feel I have more control and can follow the recipe much better by using the pressure-cook function.
There are several Instant Pot models available, and different models have different cooking programs. Refer to the user manual that came with your appliance for a more detailed explanation of its programs.
Core Instant Pot Functions
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- Pressure cooking (with keys including Pressure Cook or Manual Pressure, Soup/Broth, Meat/Stew, Bean/Chili, Rice, Multigrain, Porridge, Steam, Cake and Egg)
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- Sautéing
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- Slow cooking
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- Yogurt-making (including subprograms for making yogurt, and pasteurizing milk)
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- Sterilizing
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- Keeping food warm
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- Delaying the start of cooking (when using this function, make sure the ingredients you are using are safe to stand at room temperature until cooking begins)
In addition to the cooking programs, there are operations keys that enable you to adjust the pressure, temperature and cooking time of some programs. Every well-tested recipe will tell you what adjustments you need to make for that recipe. Keep in mind that it is very important to follow the steps exactly as written to ensure that you get the best results, safely and mess-free. (Consult your user manual for instructions on how to make the necessary adjustments to pressure, temperature, and cooking time for each program.) Some newer Instant Pot models use a dial, rather than push buttons, to select the cooking program.
Pressure Cooking
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- In some Instant Pot models, the pressure cooking function is labeled Pressure Cook; in others, it is labeled Manual (for manual pressure) instead.
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- You must have a minimum of 1 cup (250 mL) liquid in the pot. Check the user manual for your specific model for the amount of liquid needed to bring your pot to pressure. Many of the recipes call for 1 cup (250 mL) water to be added to the pot; if your model requires more liquid, increase the amount of water as necessary. In other recipes, there is sufficient liquid from other ingredients, tomatoes, for example, to meet at least the minimum requirements without the addition of 1 cup (250 mL) water.
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- The cooker must be no more than two-thirds full for any recipe, and no more than half full for ingredients, such as beans and grains, that may foam or expand during cooking.
After cooking thicker and stickier foods, such as beans or grains, or foods high in fat, take extra care when opening the lid, as these foods may bubble and spurt out.
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- Some Instant Pot models have High and Low Pressure options, some use only High Pressure, and others include Custom options. Follow the recipe instructions for choosing the pressure level. If the recipe uses Low Pressure and your model does not have that setting, you can cut the cooking time in half and use High Pressure, checking the food for doneness as per the instructions in the recipe. You may need to experiment a bit with cooking times, and the results may not be as intended.
The actual cooking time does not start until after working pressure is reached, which can take about 10 to 20 minutes, depending on the volume and temperature of ingredients in the pot. You should plan for this additional time when you are deciding how long the recipe will take until it is done.
Releasing Pressure
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- Quick Release: When the cooking time is done, press Cancel and turn the steam release handle to Venting. This immediately releases all of the pressure in the pot and stops the cooking process. When the float valve drops down, you will be able to open the lid. Keep your hands and face away from the hole on the top of the steam release handle so you don't get scalded by the escaping steam. You may want to use an oven mitt when turning the handle. Never cover the steam release handle with a towel or any other item that catches the releasing steam.
The type of pressure release used in a recipe can increase the overall cooking time. While pressure cooking is a faster cooking method, the time the Instant Pot takes to come to pressure and to release pressure should be accounted for when you are planning your meals.
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- Timed Release: When the cooking time is done, press Cancel and let the pot stand, covered, for 10 minutes or whatever amount of time is noted in the recipe. After the designated standing time, turn the steam release handle to Venting, wait for the float valve to drop down, then remove the lid. This release method is often used for dishes that benefit from additional time in the cooker's steam.
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- Natural Release: When the cooking time is done, press Cancel and let the pot stand, covered, until the float valve drops down. Turn the steam release handle to Venting, as a precaution, and remove the lid. This release method can take about 10 to 25 minutes, depending on the volume of ingredients and the pressure level. It is used for dishes that foam and could cause clogging of the exhaust valve or spewing of ingredients out through the exhaust valve. It is also used for certain dishes that benefit from the additional standing time. This release method may be called NPR (natural pressure release) in some cookbooks and blogs.
Steaming
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- Many recipes you will find use the Pressure Cook or Manual function to steam food, either directly on a steam rack or in a steamer basket, or in a heatproof dish, bowl or pan placed on a steam rack.
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- Be very careful when removing steamed items from the Instant Pot after the cooking time is done. For foods placed directly on the rack (such as eggs, peppers, potatoes, etc.), or for foods in small containers, such as silicone baking cups, custard cups or ramekins, small silicone oven mitts or silicone-coated tongs will help you remove them without burning yourself.
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- Shallow dishes and pans can be easily removed from the pot using the handles of the steam rack to lift the rack straight up out of the pot, with the dish or pan on top, and transfer it to the countertop. Make sure you still protect your hands with silicone oven mitts!
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- For deeper bowls and dishes that would be difficult to remove using the steam rack handles, use a silicone sling.
Making foil packets or parchment packets is a wonderful way to steam delicate foods such as fish. You can see exactly how to make packets for cooking en papillote (in parchment).
The lid must always be closed and locked and the steam release handle turned to Sealing when you are using a pressure cooking function.
Sautéing
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- The lid must always be kept off when you're sautéing or browning food. Do not even partially cover the pot with the lid, as you might do on the stovetop when simmering sauces, as the pressure can build in the pot and be very dangerous.
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- Always press Cancel when you are done sautéing, before moving on to other steps, such as pressure cooking or slow cooking.
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- The Sauté function has three temperature settings — Less, Normal and More — in all Instant Pot models, and some have a Custom option. Follow the instructions in the recipe for the best setting.
For best results, wait to start sautéing or browning until the display says “Hot.”
Slow Cooking
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- Unless you are directed by a recipe to leave the lid off, the lid should be closed and locked, and the steam release handle turned to Venting, when you are using the slow cooking function.
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- Fill the cooker half to three-quarters full to avoid over- or under-cooking.
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- Avoid removing the lid during the cooking time. Doing so releases valuable heat, which can alter the amount of cooking time your dish gets at the correct temperature. If looking at your slow-cooking dish is something you feel you must do, use the Instant Pot glass lid instead of the pressure cooking lid.
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- All Instant Pot models have three temperature settings — Less, Normal and More — for slow cooking, and some have a Custom option as well. Follow the recipe instructions for the ideal setting.
Never use frozen meats when slow cooking, as your dish may never reach a safe temperature.
For All Instant Pot Functions
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- Use the right tools and Instant Pot accessories will make the whole process easier and get you the best results. On the linked page, you will find my suggestions for what kitchen tools you should have on hand. Many of these items are gadgets you already have. Some are items that work exceptionally well with the Instant Pot.
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- Ingredients should be added in the order listed and as directed in the instructions.
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- All ingredients must be added to the inner cooking pot, never directly into the cooker housing.
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- Keep the steam release valve free of any obstructions. After use, make sure to clean the valve and screens.
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- Keep your Instant Pot clear of any cupboards, to prevent damage from the steam release.
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- Whenever you are opening the lid after cooking, tilt the lid away from you so you don't get scalded by escaping steam.
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- Make sure the sealing ring inside the lid is correctly placed so that the pot has a tight seal. After many uses, you may want to replace the ring if it has lost some of its form or has picked up odors. Replace the sealing ring only with authorized Instant Pot rings.
Pressure Cooking at High Altitudes
At altitudes above 3,000 feet (914 meters), recipes will require a change in cooking time or temperature or both. Refer to how to instructions provided by Instant Pot to learn the adjustments needed for your altitude. As a general rule, increase the cooking time by 5 percent for every 1,000 feet beyond 2,000 feet above sea level. You do not need to adjust your cooking time below 3,000 feet.
Getting The Most From Your Instant Pot
With all the wonderful dishes you can make in your Instant Pot, it's no wonder it has quickly become a favorite small kitchen appliance and has such a large and devoted fan base. Its ability to rapidly prepare a delicious meal — even with just five ingredients — while using very little counter space is sure to please new and experienced users alike.
Here are some tips on how you can make your Instant Pot even more useful:
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- Make homemade stocks and sauces for use in other recipes.
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- Cook dishes ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze them until ready to serve.
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- On hot summer days, use your Instant Pot instead of heating up the house with your oven.
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- Prepare an all-in-one meal with several different components using a steam rack and the stacking techniques described in several of the recipes in this book (see variation, page 33, or recipe, page 88, for example).
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- Make a side dish, such as steamed vegetables, to accompany a main dish prepared by other methods.
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- When feeding a crowd, or anytime your oven is filled to capacity, use your Instant Pot to prepare one of the dishes for your feast.
Instant Pot Benefits
An Instant Pot offers many benefits to the home cook, but when it comes to ingredients, two bonuses in particular stand out:
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- You can often use tougher, and therefore less expensive, cuts of meat, and they will become fork-tender in your Instant Pot
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- You can prepare beans, rice and stocks from scratch, without any processed ingredients
Time to Get Food on the Table
Once you have decided on a recipe you want to prepare, scan the ingredient and equipment lists to make sure you have everything you need on hand and read the recipe all the way through before you start, to avoid unexpected surprises like necessary marinating or refrigeration time. For best results, purchase fresh meats, poultry, fish, vegetables, and fruits just before you want to use them or, at the most, 2 to 3 days ahead.
You will have the most success with your dishes if you have all of the ingredients prepped and ready to go before you start following the recipe steps (unless otherwise directed in the method).
It's a good idea to measure out ingredients ahead of time. This is a great way to speed up your cooking and make sure you have everything ready to use when you need it.
Quick Tips for Best Results
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- Use the manual included with your Instant Pot for a complete description of the control panel and all of the cooking programs, operation keys and indicators. The manufacturer is the expert on how to use its equipment for best results and safety.
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- Measure ingredients carefully for optimal results.
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- Follow the recipe steps exactly and in the order listed.
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- Clean the cooker's inner pot, lid and housing according to the manufacturer's directions after each use.
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- Clean the anti-block shield on the inside of the lid, the exhaust valve, the condensation collector and the sealing ring regularly to keep your cooker functioning properly.
Safety Note: As with any cooking appliance, parts of the Instant Pot will become very hot. Be careful when handling the inner pot and any bakeware or steaming inserts used for cooking, and always be very cautious when releasing the steam from the vent and when opening the lid.
Information on this page is adapted from my cookbooks 175 Best Instant Pot Recipes and 5 Ingredient Instant Pot Recipes.
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