The Instant Pot aura is a great new addition to the Instant Pot family of products. With its sleek design and easy-to-use interface, it makes pressure cooking simpler than ever. But one common question people have is whether you can use the aura for pressure cooking or if it’s only designed for air frying.
Can You Pressure Cook with the Instant Pot aura?
The short answer is yes, absolutely! The aura has all the same pressure cooking functionality as other Instant Pot models. The main difference is that it also includes a built-in air fryer, so you get two appliances in one. But the pressure cooking is just as good as Instant Pots that focus solely on that.
The aura has several features that make it great for pressure cooking:
- 10-in-1 Functionality – It can pressure cook, slow cook, sauté, steam, make yogurt, sous vide cook, bake, air fry, roast and keep food warm. So you get a ton of versatility.
- Easy-Seal Lid – The lid locks into place and seals the pot for pressure cooking. When pressure cooking is done, it releases steam safely.
- Cooking Programs – There are preset buttons for common foods like meat, beans, rice, soup, multigrain, etc. Takes the guesswork out.
- Adjustable Pressure Levels – Cook at either high or low pressure as needed for the recipe.
- Delay Start Timer – You can delay the cooking up to 24 hours so your food is ready when you are.
So in terms of core pressure cooking functionality, the aura has everything you need. The built-in air fryer just gives you another cooking option after pressure cooking is done.
Tips for Pressure Cooking with the aura
Here are some tips to get the most out of using your aura for pressure cooking:
- Use the liquid amounts recommended in recipes. Usually 1/2 to 1 cup of water or broth is needed to build pressure.
- Let the pot naturally release pressure, especially for meats and large pieces of food. A quick release may cause food to be undercooked in the center.
- Cut food into even-sized pieces so it cooks evenly. Smaller pieces also cook faster.
- Avoid filling the pot more than 2/3 full for foods like beans or grains that expand during cooking.
- Use the delay start so food is ready when you want it, like starting beans in the morning to be ready for dinner.
- Use the keep warm function to hold food at the perfect serving temp until you’re ready to eat.
Sample Pressure Cooking Recipes
Here are a few sample recipes to give you an idea of how to pressure cook with the aura:
Beef Stew
- 1 lb beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 3 cups beef broth
- 4 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 potatoes, cubed
- 1 onion, diced
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1 tsp each salt, pepper, garlic powder
Coat beef in flour and spices. Add to pot with remaining ingredients. Pressure cook on high for 25 minutes. Natural release 10 minutes.
Chicken and Rice
- 1 lb chicken breasts
- 1 cup rice
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 tbsp oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Add all ingredients to pot and stir together. Pressure cook on high for 8 minutes then natural release. Shred chicken before serving.
Black Beans
- 1 lb dried black beans
- 6 cups water
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp oregano
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp salt
Rinse beans then add to pot with remaining ingredients. Pressure cook on high for 25 minutes then natural release. Use in burritos, rice bowls, etc.
Conclusion
The Instant Pot aura absolutely can be used for pressure cooking despite also having air frying capabilities. With adjustable pressure levels, built-in programs, and all the standard features, it works great for making stews, beans, rice, chicken, and more. Just follow recipes carefully, adjust liquid if needed, and let the pressure release naturally. In no time, you’ll be making delicious pressure cooked meals with your aura!