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If you haven’t heard of an Instant Pot, then where have you been? A lot of people would class it as a pressure cooker, which it is, albeit an electric one. However, Instant Pot is also able to perform a number of other different functions, from being used as a slow cooker, rice cooker, steamer, warmer, saute pan, and even a yogurt maker. It is a multi-cooker that can replace many items in your kitchen, and be used in one. But is it any good? Will it be worth the money? Here are some things that everyone should know about an Instant Pot, before they part with their cash to buy one.
Nothing is Instant
In the pot, the pressure inside has to build before the pot can actually start cooking. After that, the pressure then has to return back down after the cooking period is over. This means that if a recipe says that it will only take ten minutes, then you need to allow extra time. That is only counting cooking time, and not the time beforehand, or the time after. For example, an Instant Pot turkey recipe here would take a little longer than stated, because of the heating and cooling, pre and post cooking. Just something to bear in mind.
Size Matters
In order for the pot to work well, the Instant Pot needs to be running around two-thirds full. So although you can buy pots of certain sizes, what can actually go in the pot will be less than what the pot states. An eight-quart pot, for example, could only hold six quarts worth inside. This isn’t a major deal-breaker, but again, something to consider when you’re looking at what pot to get.
Less Energy Usage
An Instant Pot uses much less energy compared to what a slow cooker does. As it is on for less time, as it cooks efficiently, it means that you will use less power. It is also very well insulated, compared to a lot of older model slow cookers, meaning that the heat really does stay in the pot. This means less energy, and also much quicker cooking of food. As a result, it can also mean that the pot doesn’t heat up the home like it would if you were using the stove.
Delayed Start Time
With something like a slow cooker, which can be used, you will turn it on, and then leave it all day until several hours later. But with the pressure cooker settings, meals can be prepared really quickly. If you’re out all day, then you can put everything in before you go, program it, but you can delay the start time until half an hour before you will be home, for example. Then it is ready as you walk in.
No Babysitting
You don’t need to sit and stir the Instant Pot, or check on things like liquid levels. The pot will even switch itself off when it is done, so there is no worry about burning, scorching, or anything else like that. Simple!
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