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Credit to image used in pin goes to Instant Pot and Maryjeanne.li. – Changes were made to the original image.
In my opinion, the Instant Pot is one of the best kitchen appliances out there. It is a super fast cooker that does the job of a slow cooker, pressure cooker, rice cooker, steamer, yogurt maker, and warming pot. It’s also very versatile and lasts for years.
And that’s why I’ve gathered some of the best tips and tricks so you can use your Instant Pot like a pro. These are hacks that’ll effectively maximize the use of your cooker and will make your life easier. So check them out and let me know what you think.
Freeze Meals in Round Containers
No time to cook meals? Why not dump your fully assembled freezer meal into your Instant Pot? Just be sure to freeze your meals in a round container, bowls, pots, pans, etc. that will fit inside your Instant Pot. Because the appliance is round, freezing meals in a big square flat container is not advisable since they still need to be defrosted before you can put them into your Instant Pot
Turn Slow Cooker Recipes into Instant Pot Recipes
Yes, you can use your instant pot as a slow cooker. If you’re going to cook meat dishes that usually take a long time to be tender and juicy with your slow cooker, then try it with your Instant Pot. You can cut your cooking time in half and make your dinner easier.
Printable Instant Pot Cheat Sheet
Having a hard time figuring out the cooking times for the Instant Pot? Then definitely check out this awesome printable; it’s an awesome cheat sheet. Cooking time won’t be an issue anymore with this simple smart trick. Also, consider giving this printout to your family or friends who are fond of using this cooker!
You can easily get a Instant Pot here
Pop Some Popcorn
Nothing’s better than popcorns for movie nights. But microwave popcorn isn’t the healthiest (yeah, lots of additives that aren’t good for your health). So grab your Instant Pot as a quick alternative. The way you make popcorn in your cooker is similar to the stove top version. In a minute, you’ll have fresh popcorn that tastes super good.
Make Some Cheesecake
This instant pot cheesecake will really make your day. All you have to do is to firmly press your crust into the bottom of the cooker (use a small spoon for the edges), put the filling in and watch as your dessert finishes quickly! Nobody would think that you made a New York cheesecake that tastes amazingly good in an Instant Pot.
Use it Instead of Your Microwave
Compared to the microwave, your Instant Pot is a much better alternative for reheating your food. It contains no radiation at all that’s harmful for your body. Just put your food in, push the keep warm or slow cook button and get your meal warm in a minute. This is a great option for health concerns.
Use the 1/2 Cup Rule
Because your Instant Pot is a pressure cooker as well, it needs to create steam and internal heat to cook your foods. And adding at least 1/2 cup of water, broth, or other liquid to your meal will make sure that it’s cooked perfectly. Definitely make this a habit when using your Instant Pot!
Instant Pot Poached Eggs
Poached eggs are tasty, healthy, but at the same time delicate to make. Thankfully you won’t need any Gordon Ramsey skills to make one by simply using your instant pot and silicon egg poachers. Just crack your eggs, put them in the cups and carefully place them on the cooker. Push the “steam” button and adjust the time based on your desired doneness. In a little time, you’ll have perfectly cooked eggs for your breakfast.
Remove Inner Pot Watermark
Now, If you’re someone who uses the Instant Pot a lot, you’ll notice that the inner pot starts to get watermarks or discoloration over time. And just because it’s getting older doesn’t mean you need to throw or give it away.
The easiest way to remove watermarks is by pouring vinegar into the pot and letting it sit for 5 mins. Rinse out after and your pot will look like new again. Doing this will not only keep you cooker fresh, but save you money as well!
Use a Small Brush to Remove Dried Food Residue
Here’s an easy and practical way to keep your cooker clean and free from dried food residue. Using a small brush or an unused toothbrush, scrub the food residue. These food particles, when not removed, can damage the functionality of your cooker. Wipe off with a damp cloth after and voila, brand new looking Instant Pot again.
Implement this cleaning tip every month or as needed and you’ll help your Instant Pot work efficiently and last longer.
Now, if you don’t have an Instant Pot yet, I suggest getting one here! (It’ll save you so much time and money!) They are a versatile and helpful kitchen gadget that can make your life so much easier. More than just cooking your meal, they can do a lot more than you expect. And applying these tips and tricks to your Instant Pot will definitely make things so much easier and faster. So give them a try and let me know what you think.
Now if you have any questions about these Instant Pot hacks and tips, just let me know in the comments below! I’d be glad to help you out!
Chasing Foxes was started in 2016 as a way for Grace and her husband, Silas, to start traveling. However, they started to realize that they had a passion for improving themselves, and wanted to help others level up their lives as well. So whether it's with cooking, travel, or staying healthy, they want to help you better your life bit by bit, as they do the same.