The short answer is yes, you can absolutely use an Instapot for pressure cooking. Instapot is a popular multicooker that can be used as a pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker, steamer, sauté pan, yogurt maker, and more. The main benefit of using an Instapot as a pressure cooker is that it cooks food very quickly by raising the boiling point of water above 100°C (212°F) under pressure. This allows food to cook up to 70% faster than traditional cooking methods. An Instapot can be a great tool for weeknight meals, as you can cook dried beans, grains, meat, and more in a fraction of the normal time.
What is an Instapot?
An Instapot is a popular brand of electric multicooker. It is designed to combine the functions of several common kitchen appliances into one convenient device. The main functions of an Instapot include:
- Pressure cooker – cooks food quickly by building up steam pressure
- Slow cooker – cooks food at low temperatures for long periods
- Rice cooker – cooks rice and other grains
- Steamer – steams vegetables, seafood, etc.
- Sauté – browns and sautés ingredients
- Yogurt maker – incubates yogurt
- Warmer – keeps food warm after cooking
Instapot models have various features and capacities, but most have these core functions. The pressure cooking function allows you to leverage the time-saving benefits of pressure cooking with the convenience of a multicooker.
Benefits of using Instapot as a pressure cooker
Here are some of the main benefits of using an Instapot for pressure cooking:
- Speed – Pressure cooking is much faster than regular stove top or oven cooking. Food can cook up to 70% faster.
- Convenience – Just close the lid and set the timer. No need to monitor it closely or add liquid during cooking.
- Versatility – Can cook a wide range of foods like beans, grains, meat, veggies, and more.
- Nutrient retention – The tight seal helps food retain more vitamins and minerals.
- Tenderizes – Pressure forces liquid into food, making meats and beans extremely tender.
- Energy efficient – Uses up to 70% less energy than conventional cooking.
- Safety features – Instapot has automatic pressure and temperature controls for safe pressure cooking.
While stove top pressure cookers have been around for ages, the Instapot electric model offers unmatched convenience. You simply add ingredients, set the timer, and walk away. The preset programs make it easy to cook rice, beans, meats, and more with perfect results every time.
How to use Instapot for pressure cooking
Using an Instapot for pressure cooking is easy. Here are the basic steps:
- Add the ingredients to the inner pot. Make sure not to fill past the max fill line (typically 2/3 full).
- Secure the lid and set the pressure release valve to “sealing.”
- Select a program or set time and pressure. Most recipes use high pressure for 5-20 minutes.
- Allow the Instapot to preheat for 5-10 minutes before pressurizing.
- Let the pressure fully release when done cooking.
- Open the lid carefully. Your food is ready to eat!
It’s important to use recipes designed for pressure cooking and follow recipe directions for timing and pressure settings. Always allow the pressure to fully release before opening the lid. Refer to your model’s manual for detailed safety instructions.
Tips for success
Here are some tips for great results when using your Instapot for pressure cooking:
- Don’t overfill. Stick to the max fill line.
- Use cooking liquid as needed. The minimum is usually 1/2 cup.
- Allow for preheating before pressurizing.
- Adjust cooking time based on amount of food.
- Quick release only if safe for the specific food.
- Use natural pressure release for beans, grains, etc.
- Check if meat and vegetables are fully cooked.
- Adjust seasonings after cooking if needed.
Foods you can cook
The pressure cooking function allows you to cook a huge variety of foods in your Instapot. Here are some of the most popular foods to pressure cook:
Beans
Dried beans are one of the best foods to cook in an Instapot. The high pressure significantly reduces cooking times. Beans that normally take 1-2 hours on the stove can be cooked in just 20-30 minutes!
Rice and grains
Perfect rice and wholesome grains like oats, quinoa, and barley are easy to make in the Instapot. Just add grain and water, press a button, and they’re done!
Tough cuts of meat
Affordable cuts like pork shoulder, beef chuck, and chicken thighs become fall-off-the-bone tender after pressure cooking. Cook times range from 15 minutes to an hour.
Vegetables
Dense vegetables like potatoes, beets, and carrots can be cooked to perfection in just a few minutes under pressure. It also takes just a minute or two to steam delicate veggies.
Chili
A pot of hearty chili can cook in around 20 minutes in the Instapot. Just sauté the meat and veggies first, then add remaining ingredients before pressure cooking.
Soup stocks
Homemade stocks are easy to make in an Instapot. Pressure extracts flavor from bones/carcasses in record time.
Yogurt
With the yogurt function you can make rich homemade yogurt. Just add milk and a yogurt starter and incubate.
Almost anything you’d simmer, boil, or braise can be made in your Instapot pressure cooker. Give these dishes a try!
Tips for getting started
If you’re new to using the Instapot for pressure cooking, keep these tips in mind:
- Start with a basic recipe like boneless chicken breasts, potato wedges, or dry beans.
- Refer to the manual and review pressure cooking time charts.
- Search for tested Instapot recipes to follow proven cook times.
- Use the preset programs for rice, beans/chili, meat/stew, etc.
- Don’t overfill the inner pot past the max fill line.
- Allow the pot to preheat before setting the timer.
- Use natural release for most dishes to prevent boiling over.
It may take a few tries to get the timing right for different ingredients. Start with recipes from reputable sources. With some practice, you’ll be pressure cooking like a pro!
Helpful accessories
These handy accessories can enhance your experience using an Instapot for pressure cooking:
Extra sealing rings
Having extra silicone sealing rings allows you to swap out flavors easily or replace worn rings.
Steam rack
A steam rack or trivet helps elevate foods like vegetables out of the cooking liquid.
Springform pan
For making cheesecakes and other desserts, a springform pan fits nicely in the Instapot.
Glass lid
A glass lid allows you to monitor food while sautéing or browning before pressure cooking.
Mini mitts
These give you better grip and protection when removing the inner pot after cooking.
| Accessory | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Extra sealing rings | Swap out flavors or replace worn rings |
| Steam rack | Elevate foods like vegetables |
| Springform pan | Make cheesecakes and desserts |
| Glass lid | Monitor food while sautéing |
| Mini mitts | Protect hands when removing pot |
Pressure cooking tips and tricks
Take your Instapot pressure cooking abilities to the next level with these handy tips:
- Use a quick water release for vegetables and seafood to avoid overcooking.
- Layer ingredients like pot roast vegetables from dense to delicate.
- Cook beans from dry for better texture – skip soaking beforehand.
- Add a bit of oil to rice and grains to prevent foaming/clogging.
- Use pasta cooking water for rice and grains to boost flavor.
- Brown or caramelize onions before pressure cooking for depth of flavor.
- Cook meat from frozen by adding 5-10 minutes to cook time.
- Use natural release, then quick release after 10 minutes for stews and chili.
- Make cheesecake, crème brûlée, and other custards in ramekins.
Keep notes on cook times and release methods you like best for various ingredients. Soon you’ll be able to perfectly pressure cook just about any dish!
Common questions
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about using an Instapot for pressure cooking:
Is pressure cooking safe?
Yes, pressure cooking is very safe when proper precautions are followed. Always follow manufacturer guidelines and recipe instructions. Don’t overfill the inner pot or use very fatty meats. Modern Instapots have many safety mechanisms to prevent accidents.
Does it require special care or cleaning?
Clean your Instapot after each use like you would any other appliance. Make sure the valves, float, and silicone ring are free of debris. Replace the ring every 6-12 months. Do not immerse the electrical base in water.
Can you cook frozen foods?
Yes, you can cook frozen meats, vegetables, and even frozen meals in the Instapot. Add a few extra minutes to the cook time to account for thawing. The boiling liquid and steam thaws then cooks the food.
Does pressure cooking retain nutrients?
Pressure cooking has been shown to retain more vitamins and minerals compared to boiling, steaming, or slow cooking. The vitamins are not leached out into cooking water. This makes pressure cooking one of the most nutrient-efficient cooking methods.
What size Instapot is best for pressure cooking?
An 8-quart Instapot gives you the most flexibility for pressure cooking different recipes. Smaller 3-6 quart sizes work for individual portions or side dishes. For larger families, a 10-quart may be useful.
Conclusion
Using an Instapot for pressure cooking is simple, fast, and yields delicious results across a variety of ingredients. The automation provides ease of use and safety. With a small learning curve, you can be preparing meals in minutes that normally take hours. Pressure cooking makes economical cuts of meat incredibly tender and reduces bean cooking time by 75%. If quick, healthy, homemade meals are a goal, then absolutely use your Instapot as a pressure cooker!