What is the Instant Pot IP Lux?
The Instant Pot IP Lux is a popular electric pressure cooker that can be used for fast, convenient cooking. It has several different cooking functions including pressure cooking, slow cooking, steaming, sautéing, and more. The IP Lux has a simple interface with manual pressure adjustment between low and high.
When using the pressure cooking functions, you need to ensure the pot is sealed and properly set to low or high pressure. The IP Lux has two pressure levels:
Low Pressure
Low pressure is around 5 psi and is suitable for more delicate ingredients like fish, vegetables, and eggs.
High Pressure
High pressure is around 10-11 psi and is best for tough cuts of meat, beans, grains, and hard vegetables. High pressure allows food to cook faster.
How to Turn Instant Pot IP Lux to High Pressure
Using the high pressure setting on your Instant Pot IP Lux is easy but important to get right for safe operation. Follow these steps:
- Make sure the silicone sealing ring is properly installed in the lid. This ring allows pressure to build up.
- Place food and liquid ingredients into inner pot of Instant Pot. Food should not pass the max fill line.
- Secure the lid and turn to locked position. You will hear a click.
- Select a pressure cooking program like Manual/Pressure Cook or Soup. Adjust cook time as desired.
- Press the Pressure button multiple times until the display reads “High”.
- Make sure steam release handle is in “Sealing” position.
- Select Start. It will take 10-15 minutes for pressure to build before cook time begins.
- Once cooking completes, allow pressure to drop naturally for 10 minutes. After 10 minutes, you can quick release remaining pressure by turning steam release handle to “Venting”.
- When valve drops, turn handle back to “Sealing” and unlock lid.
- Your food is ready, be careful of any remaining steam when removing lid. Enjoy!
It’s important to ensure the pot is sealed properly before selecting the high pressure setting. Never try to open the Instant Pot until all internal pressure has been released.
What to Consider When Using High Pressure
Here are some tips when cooking under high pressure in your Instant Pot IP Lux:
- Liquid is required to create steam and pressure. Use at least 1 cup liquid for 4-6 servings.
- Avoid filling pot more than 2/3 full for starchy items like rice or pasta. Overfilling can clog the steam release.
- Meats and vegetables generally take 15-35 minutes at high pressure to become tender.
- Beans, grains and tough cuts of meat may need 20-90+ minutes cook time on high.
- Prevents overcooking with natural release. Allow 10-15 minutes then quick release any remaining pressure.
- Adjust liquid to avoid scorching. Thicken sauces after cooking if needed.
- Use a quick release to prevent rising biscuits or breads from collapsing.
High Pressure Cooking Times
To give you an idea for high pressure cooking times in the Instant Pot IP Lux, refer to this general guide:
| Food | Cook Time (Minutes) |
|---|---|
| Chicken breasts boneless | 8-10 |
| Beef stew meat 1-inch chunks | 25-30 |
| Dry beans soaked | 25-30 |
| Steel cut oats | 10-12 |
| Potatoes quartered | 7-9 |
| Broccoli florets | 1-2 |
Times can vary based on size and amount of food, so monitor first tries with a new recipe. Use a food thermometer when in doubt!
Tips for the Perfect Instant Pot Meal
Follow these Instant Pot tips and tricks for the best high pressure meals every time:
1. Browning Meat First
Browning meat in the Instant Pot on Saute mode before pressure cooking helps develop flavor and color. Pat meat dry then cook in batches if needed.
2. Layering Food Properly
Place dense foods on bottom, delicate above. Put veggies on bottom under meat to prevent scorching.
3. Using Liquid
Include at least 1 cup broth, water or sauce so there is enough moisture to pressurize.
4. Allowing a Natural Release
Let pressure come down naturally for at least 10 minutes before quick release if possible. This prevents food from overcooking.
5. Checking Food for Doneness
Use a food thermometer or make a small cut to check meat and veggies are fully cooked through after releasing pressure.
6. Adjusting Cooking Liquid
Simmer uncovered after cooking to reduce or thicken pan juices and cooking liquids as desired.
7. Keeping Instant Pot Clean
Clean lid sealing ring, valves and inner pot well after each use. Check for debris or damage. Replace parts as needed.
Troubleshooting Common High Pressure Problems
Having issues getting your Instant Pot to pressurize on the high setting? Here are some common problems and fixes:
Pot Not Coming to High Pressure
– Check that steam release handle is in sealing position.
– Ensure enough liquid – use at least 1 cup for 4-6 servings.
– Make sure silicone sealing ring is installed correctly in lid.
– Look for debris in sealing ring, valves or rims preventing seal.
– Pressure valve may need replacement if worn out or damaged.
Burn or Food Stuck to Bottom
– Don’t fill inner pot over 2/3 full for foods that expand like rice or dried beans.
– Add thin liquid like broth first to prevent scorching.
– Place vegetables and meat on a trivet over liquids.
– Deglaze pot after cooking by simmering water to lift stuck bits.
Overcooked or Mushy Food
– Use less cooking time for fresh vegetables, seafood, eggs, etc. Start with minimum times.
– Allow natural pressure release; don’t rush it with quick release.
– Check food is done before releasing pressure by opening lid or lifting valve.
– Add extra liquid to recipes that turn out too thick.
Not Enough Flavor
– Sauté aromatics and meat in Instant Pot first to enhance flavor.
– Use umami-rich ingredients like tomatoes, soy sauce, broth.
– Season food well before and after cooking.
– Simmer sauce uncovered after pressure cooking to reduce and concentrate.
Conclusion
The Instant Pot IP Lux makes cooking with high pressure fast and easy once you get the hang of it. Be sure the pot seals properly, use enough liquid, and adjust cooking times as needed. Browning ingredients first, layering food properly, and allowing a natural release will prevent many common issues. Refer to the manufacturer’s manual if you continue to have trouble getting your IP Lux to pressurize on high after trying these troubleshooting tips. With a little practice, you’ll be able to whip up delicious Instant Pot meals in no time!