How do you thicken curry in Instant Pot?

Thickening curry in an Instant Pot can be tricky since the pressure cooking method tends to thin out sauces. However, there are several effective techniques you can use to get a nice thick curry from your Instant Pot.

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Using a Roux

One of the most straightforward ways to thicken curry in an Instant Pot is to use a roux. A roux is a mixture of equal parts fat (like oil or butter) and flour that is cooked to form a paste. The roux helps thicken liquids through a process called gelatinization.

To use a roux to thicken Instant Pot curry:

In a separate pan or skillet, melt 1-2 tbsp butter or oil over medium heat.
Whisk in an equal amount of all-purpose flour (1-2 tbsp) and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly. This forms a smooth roux paste.

Add the roux paste to your cooked curry in the Instant Pot. Mix well to incorporate.
Select the Sauté function on the Instant Pot and simmer the curry for 5-10 minutes, stirring frequently, until thickened to your desired consistency.

The roux will absorb moisture from the curry as it simmers and thicken up the sauce nicely. Start with a smaller amount of roux and add more if needed to reach your preferred thickness.

Using Cornstarch Slurry

A cornstarch slurry is another easy way to thicken up Instant Pot curries. Cornstarch is a powerful thickening agent that gelatinizes when heated.

To use a cornstarch slurry:

In a small bowl, whisk together 1-2 tablespoons cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water until smooth. This forms your slurry.

Pour the slurry into your cooked Instant Pot curry and stir well to incorporate.
Select Sauté and simmer the curry for 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until thickened.

The slurry will rapidly thicken up the curry sauce as it heats. Start with a smaller amount of slurry and add more if needed. Make sure to thoroughly cook the slurry for at least 5 minutes to eliminate any starchy taste.

Cooking Down the Curry

For an easy method without adding any thickeners, you can let your Instant Pot curry simmer down to reduce excess liquid.

To cook down the curry:

After pressure cooking, select the Sauté function on the Instant Pot.

Let the curry simmer, uncovered, for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
As the curry simmers, moisture will evaporate, naturally thickening up the sauce.
Taste and adjust seasonings as needed after reducing.

This hands-off method concentrates the flavors as well. You can reduce the curry as much or as little as you like to reach your ideal consistency.

Adding Cream or Coconut Milk

For a creamy curry base, you can finish it with a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk. The fat and emulsifiers in these dairy products can help thicken up the sauce nicely.

To use cream or coconut milk:

In a small bowl, whisk together 1⁄4 cup heavy cream, coconut milk, or coconut cream.
Pour the cream or milk into your cooked Instant Pot curry. Stir well to combine.
Simmer for 2-3 minutes to allow it to thicken. Be careful not to boil.

Season with salt and spices as needed.

The cream or coconut milk adds a luxurious, velvety texture to the curry. You can also stir in a cornstarch slurry along with the cream for extra thickening power.

Using Lentils or Beans

Adding cooked lentils or beans to your Instant Pot curry is a great way to thicken it up naturally. As the lentils or beans simmer in the curry, they will help absorb moisture and add body.

To use lentils or beans:

Cook your choice of lentils or beans using the Instant Pot or stove top.
When the lentils or beans are tender, drain any excess liquid.

Add the cooked legumes to your Instant Pot curry. Stir to combine.
Simmer for 5 minutes to allow the legumes to absorb liquid. Season to taste.

Red lentils and chickpeas work particularly well to thicken curries. You can also mash some of the legumes to release more starch and make the curry thicker.

Using Instant Pot Yogurt Function

If your Instant Pot has a Yogurt function, you can use it to thicken curry in a unique way. The low heat and constant stirring creates the perfect environment for starch molecules to swell up and thicken the sauce.

To use the Yogurt function:

Add your cooked curry to the Instant Pot stainless steel inner pot.

Select the Yogurt function and adjust to the lowest temperature, around 105°F.
Let the curry churn and thicken for 30-60 minutes. Stir occasionally.
Once thickened to your liking, turn off the Yogurt function.

The Yogurt function essentially turns the Instant Pot into a pot on the lowest simmer, gently evaporating moisture as it stirs. This avoids scorching or over-reducing.

Using a Pressure Cooker Thickening Lid Attachment

Some Instant Pot pressure cooker models offer a special thickening lid attachment accessory. This lid has an inner tray that prevents excess moisture from escaping during cooking.

To use a thickening lid attachment:

Assemble your Instant Pot with the thickening lid instead of the standard lid.
Add your curry ingredients to the pot insert as usual.
Pressure cook on high for the minimum time specified in your recipe.

Use quick release to depressurize when done.
Your curry will have less excess moisture and be thicker.

The special lid makes it easy to get perfect thick curry every time. No extra steps needed! Check your model to see if this accessory is available.

Letting the Curry Rest

Don’t forget to let your curry rest! Allowing the piping hot curry to sit for 5-10 minutes off the heat will give it time to thicken up.

As curry rests, a couple things happen:

Heat continues to gently reduce excess moisture and evaporate water

Starches released into the sauce have time to fully absorb liquid and swell
Spices and flavors have time to fully develop and meld

For best results, transfer your piping hot curry to a serving dish and let it rest, uncovered, as you prepare any other serving items. This simple step can make a significant difference in the final thickness.

Conclusion

With the right technique, you can easily achieve thick, luxurious Instant Pot curry. Quick-mixing a roux, slurry, or dairy at the end works wonderfully to bind up excess moisture. Allowing the curry to simmer down or adding beans also offers easy and natural thickening.

Experiment with these different methods to find your perfect balance of rich, thick curry from your Instant Pot every time.