The Instant Pot Duo Nova is a versatile multi-cooker that can be used for pressure cooking, slow cooking, steaming, sautéing, and more. One of the key functions of the Duo Nova is its ability to slow cook at a variety of temperatures. This allows you to prepare dishes with precision and get optimal results.
Slow Cook Temperature Options
The Instant Pot Duo Nova has 3 temperature settings for slow cooking:
- Low – 190°F (88°C)
- Medium – 200°F (93°C)
- High – 210°F (99°C)
Having multiple slow cook temperatures gives you flexibility to cook foods at the ideal temperature for the ingredients and recipe. Here is an overview of what each temperature setting is best used for:
Low – 190°F (88°C)
The low slow cook setting maintains a temperature of 190°F or 88°C. This lower heat is ideal for all-day simmering of tough cuts of meat to make them tender. It’s also good for cooking beans and legumes thoroughly without overcooking. The low setting can cook for up to 20 hours safely.
Medium – 200°F (93°C)
The medium or default slow cook temperature is 200°F or 93°C. This is considered the standard slow cooking heat for most recipes. Medium heat will gently cook food for 4-8 hours until fork-tender and flavorful. It’s suitable for stews, chilis, roasts, and other classic slow cooker dishes.
High – 210°F (99°C)
The high slow cook setting maintains a temperature of 210°F or 99°C. It can cook foods faster at a higher heat for 2-4 hours. High is good for cooking ground meats and thicker sauces or gravies that benefit from a more rapid simmer. It also brings liquids to a boil faster.
How to Choose the Right Slow Cook Setting
Picking the proper slow cook temperature for your recipe can ensure the best results. Here are some tips:
- Cook tough, fibrous meats like beef chuck roast, pork shoulder, or lamb on low for maximum tenderness.
- Choose the medium setting for most classic slow cooker recipes and to get food fork-tender.
- Use high heat for quick-cooking cuts like chicken breasts or pre-browned ground beef that just need 2-3 hours.
- Simmer beans, stews, chilis, and curries on low for best flavor melding without overcooking.
- The high setting can reduce liquids and thicken sauces faster.
Slow Cook Time Guidelines
Cooking time can vary depending on the exact recipe, ingredients, and size of portions. But in general, here are the estimated time ranges for each slow cook setting:
| Temperature | Time Range |
|---|---|
| Low – 190°F (88°C) | 8-20 hours |
| Medium – 200°F (93°C) | 4-10 hours |
| High – 210°F (99°C) | 2-5 hours |
Refer to recipe cooking times as a starting point. Then check food periodically for doneness, adjusting time up or down as needed.
Tips for Best Slow Cook Results
Follow these tips when slow cooking with your Instant Pot Duo Nova:
- Browning meat: Browning meat before slow cooking enhances flavor and color.
- Liquid required: Use at least 1 cup liquid for 6 hours or more on low. Use 1⁄2 cup liquid for 4 hours on low or 2-4 hours on high.
- Don’t lift the lid: Avoid removing the lid during cooking to maintain heat and moisture.
- Layer ingredients: Place vegetables on bottom, then meat, then potatoes/grains on top.
- Cooking thickeners: If using milk, cream or cornstarch, stir in at end of cooking.
- Allow natural release: Let pressure release naturally rather than quick release to finish cooking.
Common Slow Cooker Dishes & Suggested Settings
Here are some typical slow cooker recipes with recommended Instant Pot Duo Nova temperature settings:
| Dish | Suggested Temperature |
|---|---|
| Pot roasts | Low |
| Pork shoulder | Low – Medium |
| Chicken thighs | High |
| Stews | Low – Medium |
| Chili | Low |
| Beans | Low |
| Soups | Low – High |
| Oatmeal | High |
As you get familiar with your Instant Pot Duo Nova, you’ll find which temperatures work best for your favorite recipes.
Conclusion
Having multiple slow cook settings gives you control over cooking temperatures with the Instant Pot Duo Nova. Low heat excels at braising tough cuts of meat for tenderness. Medium is ideal for most classic slow cooked dishes. High speeds up cooking times for quick-cooking ingredients or reducing liquids. Following recipe guidelines and getting to know your Duo Nova will help you choose the right slow cook temperatures for outstanding results.