Since each Instant Pot model is a little different, it’s important to read the manual and learn about the various features and settings of your Instant Pot. What extras and accessories can you buy for an Instant Pot? The buying guide below details which and how many programs are available with each model. The fancier models tack on additional programs (like Sous Vide, Broil, Dehydrate, Air Fry, and more). What are the Instant Pot smart programs?Įach Instant Pot has a minimum of five built-in smart programs (Pressure Cook, Slow Cook, Sauté, and Keep Warm) that make up its multi-functionality. the Mini), which is perfect for cooking for 1–2 people. Last but not least is the 3-quart Instant Pot (a.k.a. The 8-quart and 10-quart sizes, on the other hand, are ideal when you’re feeding a large family, cooking for a party, or doing weekly meal prep. The 6-quart Instant Pot is the most popular option-many recipes call for a 6-quart Instant Pot, and a meal cooked in the 6-quart variety feeds 3–6 people.
There are four Instant Pot sizes: 3-, 6-, 8-, and 10-quart options. For slow-cooking, there you’ll need to adjust for less liquid and more time. Generally speaking, when adapting for pressure cooking, the liquid and cook time will be cut and adjusted from a manual pressure cooker.
With a willingness for some trial and error, many recipes can be adapted for the Instant Pot. But once you get more comfortable with the machine, it’s excellent for tougher cuts of meat like baby back ribs or proteins that usually require a long cook time. It’s great for beginner cooking and simple meals, like stews and oatmeal. Because the Instant Pot is a pressure cooker and slow cooker wrapped up in one (with a bonus Sauté function, no less), it’s designed to help you remove the guesswork of figuring out the ideal amount of heat, pressure, and time your food needs.