Using an Instant Pot can be a great way to quickly cook meals, but it’s important to know how to safely use it. One key safety question is: how do you know when it’s safe to open the Instant Pot after cooking? There are a few things to look for to avoid potentially dangerous steam burns. In this article, we’ll go over the signs that indicate your Instant Pot is ready to be opened, as well as precautions to take. Having the right information will help ensure you can enjoy delicious Instant Pot meals safely.
Wait for the float valve to drop
The main indicator that your Instant Pot is ready to be opened is the position of the float valve. This valve pops up while the pot is pressurized. It looks like a silver post sticking out of the lid. Never try to open the lid while the float valve is still up.
You need to wait until the float valve drops back down flush with the lid before attempting to open it. This shows that the pressure has been fully released inside the pot. It usually takes 10-15 minutes after cooking finishes for the float valve to drop on its own as the pot depressurizes.
If you’re in a hurry, you can quick release the pressure by carefully turning the steam release handle to the venting position. Keep hands and face clear of the steam coming out. After steam stops shooting out, you can try turning the handle back to sealing position. The float valve should drop shortly after.
What if the float valve won’t drop?
If 15 minutes have passed after cooking or quick releasing and the float valve still won’t drop, there might be a clog.
First, make sure the pressure release handle is in the sealing position. Leave it alone for another 5-10 minutes to give the pot more time to release remaining pressure.
If the float valve remains up, press down gently on the lid. If it still won’t budge, the pot is still pressurized – do not try to force it open.
Try quick releasing again. If that doesn’t work, carefully use a wooden spoon to clear away any food debris blocking the valve.
As a last resort, allow the pot to continue cooling down until the float valve finally drops, which could take up to a few hours. Do not attempt to pry open the lid while pressurized.
Check the lid for errors
Inspect the lid for any concerning errors before opening the Instant Pot:
1. Lid slipping or moveable
The lid should not lift at all when pressurized. If you notice the lid moving or see gaps appearing, the seal might be compromised. Do not open it. Let the pot fully cool and depressurize.
2. Leaking steam
You should not see steam escaping from anywhere around the lid edges. Leaking steam indicates a poor seal that could prevent safe pressure cooking. Do not force the lid open if you notice leaking.
3. Deformed or damaged lid
Carefully inspect the lid for any warping, cracks, or other damage. Small dents are okay, but anything that affects the lid’s shape can impact the seal. Replace any severely deformed lids right away.
Use natural pressure release when possible
For most dishes, you should allow the Instant Pot to naturally release its pressure and steam gradually after cooking finishes. This is called natural pressure release or NPR. It typically takes 15-20 minutes. NPR is the safest approach as it prevents a sudden rush of hot steam when you remove the lid.
Quick release with the steam release handle is faster but can cause a dangerous burst of steam right when you open the lid. Only use quick release if instructed by a recipe, and take proper precautions.
With natural release, you will know the pot has depressurized once the float valve drops down. This lets steam escape more slowly versus opening the venting handle. Allowing a natural release ensures no pressurized steam will escape when removing the lid.
Unlock and remove the lid properly
Once you’ve confirmed the float valve is down and there are no other lid issues, you can start opening the Instant Pot:
- Turn the lid counterclockwise to unlock it.
- Gently turn the lid toward you to let any remaining steam escape away from your face and hands. Pause if you see a rush of steam.
- Tilt the lid up and lift it off the pot.
- Continue tilting the lid away as you remove it to prevent drips.
Always open the lid carefully, using the handles and standing back to avoid burns.
Take extra care with certain foods
Some types of foods call for extra caution when releasing pressure:
Foods that foam and froth
Foods prone to foaming and frothing can clog the pressure release valve and steam vigorously when opened. These include rice, beans, applesauce, oatmeal, etc. Always allow natural pressure release with these dishes to prevent splattering.
Foods with skins
Foods cooked whole with skins like potatoes or sausages can trap steam underneath their skins. Remove the lid away from you and use oven mitts to avoid steam rushes.
Thick sauces and stews
Viscous liquids like stews and chilis can continue bubbling when opened and spurt out. Use natural release and lift the lid carefully tilted away from you.
Large volumes of liquid
Lots of boiling broth or water in the pot forms bursts of steam when the lid is removed. Tilt the lid, lift slowly, and stand back.
Use accessories to hold lid upright
The Instant Pot lid can be awkward to remove while trying to avoid hot steam and drips. Lid holders and stands make this process safer.
These accessories grip the removed lid upright, allowing steam to escape away from you. They also provide a stable base to set the hot lid down without spilling the condensation.
Some options are:
- Silicone lid holders that clamp onto the rim
- Plastic lid stands
- Metal racks that grab the handle
Look for a sturdy, heat resistant lid holder designed to fit the Instant Pot. Having a handy place to rest the lid makes opening it much less risky.
Use oven mitts for protection
Always wear oven mitts or pot holders when opening the Instant Pot. They protect your hands and arms from:
- Escaping steam
- Splatters from bubbling foods
- The extremely hot lid and pot
Look for thick, insulated mitts that cover your hands, wrists, and forearms. Potholders work too but don’t provide as much coverage.
The mitts allow you to grip the hot lid safely. They also help if you need to tilt the lid to release remaining pressure. Never open the pot bare-handed!
When in doubt, don’t open it yet!
If at any point during the opening process you’re unsure if the pot is still pressurized, stop. Do not try to force the lid open. Double check the float valve and walk away for a few more minutes if needed. It’s always safer to wait until completely depressurized rather than risk an accident.
Trust the indicated signs rather than guess if the Instant Pot is ready. Rushing can lead to dangerous steam explosion hazards. Avoid burns by taking your time and verifying the pot is completely safe to open.
Conclusion
Opening your Instant Pot properly is crucial for safe use. Always wait for the float valve to drop before attempting to remove the lid. Inspect the lid for any errors or leaks first too. Use natural pressure release when possible and tilt the lid away from you as you lift it. Wear oven mitts for protection. Accessories like lid holders can also make the process easier. Taking these precautions will help prevent painful steam burns. Pay attention to the visual signs that your Instant Pot is depressurized, and avoid prematurely forcing it open. A little patience goes a long way for safely enjoying Instant Pot cooking.
| Signs Instant Pot is Ready to Open | Signs Instant Pot is Still Pressurized |
|---|---|
| – Float valve has dropped down | – Float valve still popped up |
| – No steam leaking from lid | – Steam leaking or lid loose |
| – Lid is not damaged | – Lid is warped or cracked |
| – Used natural pressure release | – Tried quick pressure release |
| – No lid errors or faults | – Lid difficult to turn and open |
| Food Type | Special Care When Opening |
|---|---|
| Rice, beans, oatmeal | Use natural release only |
| Meat with skins | Open lid away from you |
| Thick stews, chilis | Tilt lid, lift slowly |
| Lots of boiling liquid | Stand back from steam |