Using a pressure cooker as a slow cooker is a great way to get even more versatility out of this handy kitchen appliance. With just a few simple tips and tricks, you can easily convert your Insignia pressure cooker into a fully functioning slow cooker for simmering soups, stews, chilis and more.
Can You Use an Insignia Pressure Cooker as a Slow Cooker?
The good news is that yes, absolutely you can use an Insignia pressure cooker as a slow cooker! Most modern electric pressure cookers like the Insignia models have a slow cook function built right in. This allows you to prep your ingredients, set the cooker to slow cook mode, and come home hours later to a perfectly simmered meal.
The key things to look for are:
- A slow cook setting or function
- A digital timer that allows you to program cook times from 30 minutes up to 9+ hours
- Adjustable temperature settings for Low, Medium, and High
As long as your Insignia pressure cooker has these features, you should have no problem using it as a fully functional slow cooker. The main benefit of using a pressure cooker over a dedicated slow cooker is the versatility – you gain the ability to pressure cook AND slow cook in one appliance.
How to Use an Insignia Pressure Cooker as a Slow Cooker
Using an Insignia pressure cooker as a slow cooker is easy once you know how. Here are some step-by-step instructions:
- Prep your ingredients and add them to the inner pot of the pressure cooker.
- Secure the lid and set the pressure valve to the Venting position.
- Select the Slow Cook or Manual/Pressure Cook function. Use the +/- buttons to set the cook time, from 30 minutes up to 8+ hours depending on your recipe.
- Adjust the temperature – Low, Medium or High settings are typically available.
- The cooker will now slowly simmer your dish at the specified temperature and time. No pressure will build up.
- Once the cook time is complete, the cooker will switch to Keep Warm mode. Use caution when opening the lid as steam will escape.
- For best results, check on your dish every few hours and adjust seasonings. Add extra liquid if needed.
- Enjoy your slow cooked meal! The inner pot is oven safe so you can move straight to the table.
It really is that easy. The keys are making sure you don’t seal the lid, and that you vent the pressure valve so no internal pressure builds up. Then simply choose your cook time and temperature. Refer to your specific Insignia cooker’s manual if you need any clarification on selecting the right slow cook settings.
Tips for Using an Insignia Pressure Cooker as a Slow Cooker
Follow these tips to get the most out of using your Insignia pressure cooker as a slow cooker:
- Don’t fill past the max fill line: Overfilling can lead to a messy boil over, so stick within the recommended fill range.
- Brown or sauté ingredients first: This adds deeper flavor to dishes like stews, chilis or soups.
- Add enough liquid: Slow cooking requires moisture, so add broth, tomatoes, water etc. Check during cooking and add more liquid as needed.
- Layer ingredients: Place root veggies and potatoes on the bottom, then meat, and finally delicate herbs on top.
- Use the delay start function: Program your cook times so dinner is ready when you walk in the door!
- Reduce cook time vs. slow cooker: Pressure cookers heat a bit faster, so cut 15-30 minutes off recommended slow cooker times.
- Keep the lid on: Resist the urge to remove the lid during cooking – this will increase cook times.
It may take a few test runs to get the timing just right, but with some simple adjustments you’ll be making delicious soups, stews, dips and more in no time with your Insignia pressure cooker!
Best Recipes to Make in an Insignia Pressure Cooker on Slow Cook Mode
Here are some top recipes to try out in your Insignia pressure cooker on slow cook mode:
Chicken Noodle Soup
This classic is so easy in the pressure cooker. Just toss in chicken, vegetables, noodles and broth, and let it simmer away for a few hours. The flavor is outstanding and the noodles come out perfectly cooked.
Beef Stew
Tougher cuts of beef become fall-apart tender after a long simmer. And you get that rich flavor development. Add potatoes, carrots and celery for a comforting beef stew.
Pulled Pork
Pulled pork is a great hands-off dish for the slow cooker. Season a pork shoulder and let it cook low and slow for 8-10 hours until shreddable. Perfect for sandwiches!
Chicken Chili
Chili is meant for the slow cooker! Cook up spicy ground chicken chili loaded with beans, corn and peppers. Top with cheese, sour cream or avocado.
Vegetable Soup
Veggie soups are so nourishing. Slow cook a mix of chopped veggies like carrots, potatoes, celery, beans and tomatoes in broth for a hearty vegetarian meal.
Baked Beans
Sweet and smoky baked beans just require a long simmer to develop their signature flavors. Add molasses, mustard and your favorite mix-ins.
Pot Roast
Low and slow is the only way to get melt-in-your-mouth tender pot roast. Cook with onions, garlic, potatoes, broth and red wine for maximum flavor.
Tips for Adapting Slow Cooker Recipes
Want to use your favorite slow cooker recipes in your Insignia pressure cooker? Here are some tips for adapting traditional slow cooker recipes:
- Reduce the liquid called for: Pressure cookers trap and recirculate moisture so you usually need less liquid.
- Add 15-30 minutes to cook times: Slow cookers run cooler than pressure cookers so you may need a bit more time.
- Use cooking racks or trivets: This can help elevate food out of excess moisture if needed.
- Cut vegetables smaller: Larger pieces may not fully cook through on the quicker timeline.
- Stir periodically: Test recipes may require stirring once or twice during cooking.
- Check seasonings: Taste and adjust salt, herbs and spices once done. The flavor profile may change.
Make a few small test batch recipes while you get the timing down. Soon you’ll have all your slow cooker favorites adapted to your Insignia pressure cooker!
Maintenance Tips to Keep Your Insignia Pressure Cooker Working
To keep your Insignia pressure cooker in great working condition for years of slow cooking delicious meals, follow these simple maintenance tips:
- Read the manual: Follow all manufacturer guidelines for cleaning and storage.
- Clean after each use: Wash the inner pot, lid and valves/gaskets in hot soapy water.
- Don’t immerse the base: Wipe the control panel clean with a damp cloth.
- Check the gasket: Make sure it’s flexible, with no cracks. Replace yearly or as needed.
- Descale occasionally: Use white vinegar to remove mineral deposits if needed.
- Store properly: Put the lid upside down on the base and don’t cram in a cupboard.
- Replace worn parts: Get new gaskets, valves or other parts if they become faulty.
With occasional cleaning and component replacement when needed, your Insignia pressure cooker should function flawlessly as a slow cooker for years!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can all pressure cookers be used as slow cookers?
Most modern electric pressure cookers have a slow cook function, but not every model does. Check your specific cooker’s control panel and manual to see if it has options for slow cooking.
Where should I put the liquid in a pressure cooker slow cooking?
Add liquid ingredients like broth, tomatoes or water to the inner pot before adding the other ingredients. Vegetable juices will flavor the whole dish. Meat juices only come later in cooking.
How long can I slow cook in a pressure cooker?
Most models can slow cook up to 8-10 hours on low. Refer to your specific cooker’s time settings – some may go up to 24 hours. Avoid cooking anything longer than 12 hours to prevent over-cooking.
Can I convert any slow cooker recipe to the pressure cooker?
Most slow cooker recipes can be adapted to the pressure cooker, though you may need to adjust liquid amounts, cook times and cut food into smaller pieces. Check food is cooked through.
Do I need to stir food when slow cooking in a pressure cooker?
Stirring is not necessary, though it can help distribute flavors and ingredients. Taste and check consistency halfway through cooking, and add any additional needed liquid.
Can I use the slow cook function without the inner pot?
No, you should always use the removable inner pot when slow cooking in your pressure cooker. It is designed specifically for use in this appliance. Never run the cooker empty.
Conclusion
Using your Insignia pressure cooker as a slow cooker opens up a whole new world of simmered dishes like flavorful soups, stews, chilis and more. Just utilize the slow cook setting, program the times as needed, add your ingredients, and let the pressure cooker do the work. In no time you’ll be making fall-apart roasts, bean dips, hearty chilis and so much more, all in the convenience of your pressure cooker. Happy slow cooking!