Home>Gift Ideas>Instant Pot Review: The Must-Have Kitchen Appliance
Gift Ideas
Instant Pot Review: The Must-Have Kitchen Appliance
Published: February 19, 2024
Discover why the Instant Pot is a game-changer in the kitchen with our in-depth review. Find out why this must-have appliance is a top choice for convenient and delicious meals.
(Many of the links in this article redirect to a specific reviewed product. Your purchase of these products through affiliate links helps to generate commission for Giftslessordinary.com, at no extra cost. Learn more)
Are you looking for a versatile and efficient kitchen appliance? Look no further than the Instant Pot! In this Instant Pot review, we will explore the features and benefits of this must-have kitchen appliance that has been gaining popularity among home cooks. Whether you're a busy student or a working parent, the Instant Pot can help you prepare delicious meals in a fraction of the time compared to traditional cooking methods. Keep reading to learn why the Instant Pot is a game-changer for anyone looking to simplify their cooking routine.
Overall Score: 8/10
The Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker offers a wide range of cooking options, including pressure cooking, slow cooking, rice cooking, steaming, sautéing, yogurt making, and food warming. With 13 customizable smart programs, this versatile appliance can prepare a variety of dishes up to 70% faster than traditional cooking methods. The stainless-steel construction is easy to clean and includes over 10 safety features for worry-free cooking. The free Instant Brands Connect App provides access to over 800 recipes. Perfect for growing families or meal prepping, this 6-quart cooker is a kitchen essential for convenient and delicious home-cooked meals.
Key Features
- 7-IN-1 FUNCTIONALITY: Pressure cook, slow cook, rice cooker, and more
- QUICK ONE-TOUCH COOKING: 13 customizable Smart Programs
- COOK FAST OR SLOW: Saves time and preserves traditional flavors
- QUICK AND EASY CLEAN UP: Finger-print resistant, dishwasher-safe components
- SAFETY FEATURES: Over 10 safety features and safe-locking lid
- GREAT FOR GROWING FAMILIES: Cook for up to 6 people
- VERSATILE INNER COOKING POT: Food-grade stainless-steel construction
- DISCOVER AMAZING RECIPES: Free Instant Brands Connect App
Specifications
- Color: Stainless Steel/Black
- Dimension: 13.38Lx12.20Wx12.48H
- Size: 6QT
Pros
- Versatile functionality for various cooking methods
- Saves time without compromising traditional flavors
- Easy to clean and includes over 10 safety features
Cons
- Tendency to scorch certain recipes without enough liquid
The Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker offers impressive versatility and time-saving features, making it a valuable addition to any kitchen. While it may have limitations when preparing certain recipes, its overall performance and convenience make it a top choice for busy families and home cooks.
Overall Score: 9/10
The Instant Pot Pro 10-in-1 Pressure Cooker is a versatile kitchen appliance that offers multiple cooking functions. It includes pressure cooking, slow cooking, rice/grain cooking, steaming, sautéing, sous vide, yogurt making, sterilizing, and food warming. Equipped with a premium cookware-grade inner pot with stay-cool silicone handles, it is safe to use and easy to clean. With convenient programmable settings and safety features such as overheat protection and a secure locking lid, the Instant Pot is perfect for busy families. The diffusing cover reduces noise and splashing, making it user-friendly. The product also includes accessories like an extra sealing ring and stainless-steel steamer rack. Users can discover new recipes through the free Instant Brands Connect App. The product dimensions are 13.00Lx12.70Wx12.80H, and it comes in a 6QT size and black color.
Key Features
- 10-In-1 Functionality
- Premium Cookware Grade Inner Pot with Stay-Cool Silicone Handles
- Convenient programmable settings
- Overheat Protection
- Includes free Instant Brands Connect App with new recipes
Specifications
- Color: Black
- Dimension: 13.00Lx12.70Wx12.80H
- Size: 6QT
Pros
- Versatile with multiple cooking functions
- Safety features for user protection
- Convenient and time-saving
- Includes free Instant Brands Connect App with new recipes
Cons
- LED SCREEN is harder to see in daylight
- Limitation in setting the temperature on certain modes
The Instant Pot Pro offers great functionality and convenience for busy families and individuals. With its safety features and user-friendly design, it stands out as a valuable addition to any kitchen. Although it may have a few limitations, its overall performance and efficiency make it a worthwhile investment.
Overall Score: 9/10
The Instant Pot Duo Plus is an 8-quart electric pressure cooker with 9-in-1 functionality. It also functions as a slow cooker, rice cooker, steamer, sauté pan, yogurt maker, warmer, and sterilizer, with a companion app providing over 800 recipes. The appliance features a stainless steel grey exterior, whisper quiet steam release, a large LCD display, and 25 customizable smart programs. The food-grade stainless steel cooking pot and versatility to cook fast or slow while serving up to 8 people make it a practical addition for households. Additionally, safety features include over 10 safety features, overheat protection, and a safe-locking lid. The inner pot and accessories are dishwasher safe, ensuring quick and easy cleaning. This well-received product has a customer rating of 4.7/5.
Key Features
- 9-in-1 Functionality: Pressure cook, slow cook, rice cooker, yogurt maker, steamer, sauté pan, sterilizer, warmer.
- Stainless Steel Grey: Matches any kitchen décor.
- Whisper Quiet Steam Release: With step-by-step cooking instructions.
- Quick One-Touch Cooking: 25 customizable Smart Programs.
- Versatile Inner Cooking Pot: Food-grade stainless-steel with anti-spin design.
- Quick, Easy Clean Up: Finger-print resistant, dishwasher-safe.
- Safety Features: Over 10 safety features, overheat protection, and safe-locking lid.
- Serves up to 8 People: Perfect for quick weekday family dinners.
- Discover Amazing Recipes: Download the Instant Pot app for access to over 800 recipes.
Specifications
- Color: Chrome
- Size: 8QT
Pros
- 9-in-1 functionality for versatile cooking
- Large LCD display and whisper quiet steam release
- Food-grade stainless steel with dishwasher-safe accessories
- Over 10 safety features ensuring peace of mind
- Serves up to 8 people and matches any kitchen décor
Cons
- Short power cord limits placement options
- Air fry compartment may not fit large quantities of food
- Sealing ring needs frequent cleaning to remove odors
The Instant Pot Duo Plus 8-Quart Electric Pressure Cooker is a versatile and practical addition to any kitchen. Its 9-in-1 functionality, safety features, and ease of use make it a favorite among users. While there are some limitations, such as the short power cord and air fry compartment size, the overall performance and convenience make it a worthwhile investment for busy households.
Overall Score: 8/10
The Instant Pot Stainless Steel Inner Cooking Pot is designed for use with the Instant Pot Mini 3-quart. Made with safe, food grade 304 (18/8) stainless steel, it features a polished surface for easy cleaning and even heat distribution. This pot also includes markings for precise measuring and access to the Instant Brands Connect App for quick and delicious recipes.
Key Features
- Stainless steel: High quality steel, food grade 304 (18/8) stainless steel
- Easy to clean: Polished surface, dishwasher safe, food sticks less
- Authentic: Genuine Instant Pot accessory
- Even heat: 3-ply bottom for even heat distribution
- Accurate measurements: Markings at 1/2 and 2/3 for precise measuring
- Discover amazing recipes: Includes access to Instant Brands Connect App
Specifications
- Color: Stainless Steel
- Dimension: 9.37Lx9.37Wx6.22H
- Size: 6 Quart
Pros
- High quality stainless steel construction
- Even heat distribution for consistent cooking
- Markings for precise measuring
- Easy to clean polished surface
- Access to Instant Brands Connect App for recipes
Cons
- Reports of inconsistent cook times
- Some customers received defective pots
The Instant Pot Stainless Steel Inner Cooking Pot is a high-quality, authentic accessory designed to enhance the cooking experience. With its durable construction, even heat distribution, and versatile use, this pot is a valuable addition to any kitchen. However, some users have reported issues with inconsistent cook times and receiving defective pots, which is something to consider before purchase.
Overall Score: 7/10
The Instant Pot RIO is a 7-in-1 electric multi-cooker that offers pressure cooking, slow cooking, rice cooking, steaming, sautéing, yogurt making, and food warming capabilities. The improved design includes advanced controls and anti-spin inner pot for easy sautéing. With quick one-touch cooking and 13 customizable smart programs, it allows for fast or slow cooking, perfect for growing families or meal prepping. The Instant Pot RIO also offers safety features, versatile inner cooking pot, and access to over 800 recipes on the Instant Brands Connect App. Some users found it to be a fantastic and versatile addition to their kitchen, while others encountered issues such as poor instructions and defective units.
Key Features
- Revolutionary, slim design in matte black finish
- Easy-to-use control panel with cooking progress indicator
- 7-in-1 functionality for various cooking methods
- 13 customizable smart programs for quick cooking
- Finger-print resistant with dishwasher-safe parts
- Includes over 10 safety features and safety-locking lid
- Great for up to 6 people, versatile inner cooking pot
- Access to over 800 recipes on the Instant Brands Connect App
Specifications
- Color: Chrome
- Size: 6 QT
Pros
- Easy and user-friendly
- Great for batch cooking and meal prep
- Versatile and functional
Cons
- Poor instructions for use
- Defective units encountered
The Instant Pot RIO offers a modern, versatile, and user-friendly cooking experience with its 7-in-1 functionality, safety features, and access to numerous recipes. However, some users have reported issues with instructions and defective units. Overall, it is a valuable addition to the kitchen for those looking to streamline their cooking process and explore new recipes.
Overall Score: 8/10
In this beginner-friendly recipe book, Instant Pot Essentials First Steps Easy Success, you will find colorful photos and simple, easy-to-follow recipes that are perfect for those just starting out with their Instant Pot. The book is designed to help beginner cooks achieve success with their meals, providing step-by-step instructions and tips to make the most of their Instant Pot experience.
Key Features
- Beginner-friendly recipes
- Colorful photos for visual guidance
- Easy-to-follow instructions
- Tips for Instant Pot success
Specifications
- N/A
Pros
- Great for beginners
- Simple and easy-to-follow recipes
- Visual guidance with colorful photos
Cons
Instant Pot Essentials First Steps Easy Success is a fantastic resource for anyone new to using an Instant Pot. With its beginner-friendly approach, colorful photos, and easy-to-follow recipes, it’s a great tool for those looking to make the most of their Instant Pot cooking experience.
Overall Score: 9/10
The Instant Pot Tempered Glass Lid is a 9.1-inch lid made of tempered glass with a steam vent. It's designed for use with all Instant Pot 6-quart models and features an ergonomic stainless steel handle and rim. It's dishwasher safe and includes access to the Instant Brands Connect App for new recipe ideas. Customers rave about its quality, perfect fit, and convenience, making it an essential accessory for any Instant Pot owner.
Key Features
- 9.1-inch lid made of tempered glass
- Designed for all Instant Pot 6-quart models
- Dishwasher safe and eay to clean
- Ergonomic stainless steel handle and rim
- Includes access to Instant Brands Connect App
Specifications
- Color: Glass Lid
- Dimension: 9.10Lx9.10Wx2.80H
- Size: 6 Quart
Pros
- High quality and durable material
- Can be used in the oven up to 220C/428F
- Provides a clear view of cooking without removing lid
Cons
- Some customers find the fit a bit sloppy
The Instant Pot Tempered Glass Lid is a must-have accessory for any Instant Pot owner. Its durability, convenience, and ability to enhance the cooking experience make it a highly valuable addition to the kitchen. Whether you’re slow cooking, sautéing, or browning, this lid provides the versatility and practicality that Instant Pot enthusiasts will truly appreciate.
Overall Score: 9/10
The Instant Pot Pro Crisp 11-in-1 Air Fryer and Electric Pressure Cooker Combo is a culinary powerhouse that revolutionizes the kitchen. With 11-in-1 functionality, the appliance can pressure cook, slow cook, steam, sauté, air fry, roast, bake, broil, and dehydrate. The 8-quart capacity caters to larger families, and the included free app with over 800 recipes adds culinary inspiration. The appliance is efficient, user-friendly, and safe, with 10+ safety features. While it may have a bulky size and a higher upfront cost, this versatile kitchen essential stands out for its performance, convenience, and innovative design.
Key Features
- 11-IN-1 FUNCTIONALITY: Pressure cooker, slow cooker, steamer, sauté pan, food warmer, sous vide, air fryer, roaster, mini oven, broiler, and dehydrator
- THE INSTANT POT THAT AIR FRIES: Pressure cooker and air fryer combo with 2 lids
- MOST VERSITILE: Premium Cookware Grade Inner Pot with Stay-Cool Silicone Handles
- EVENCRISP TECHNOLOGY: Air fryer lid delivers crunch with 95% less oil
- CUSTOMIZABLE COOKING PROGRAMS: Pressure Cook, Sauté, Slow Cook, and more
- FAST OR SLOW: Pressure cook for flavor, or slow cook traditional recipes
- INCLUDED ACCESSORIES: Stainless-steel steam rack, air fryer basket, and protective pad
- SAFETY FEATURES: Over 10 safety features, overheat protection, and safe-locking lid
- PERFECT FOR LARGER FAMILIES: Cook for up to 8 people
- DISCOVER AMAZING RECIPES: Free Instant Brands Connect App with 800+ recipes
Specifications
- Color: Stainless Steel
- Dimension: 15.35Lx12.57Wx14.78H
- Size: 8QT
Pros
- Versatility for simplified meal prep
- Innovative multicooker lids for expanded cooking options
- Efficient cooking with quick and consistent results
- Time-saving appliance for busy lifestyles
- User-friendly controls and display
Cons
- Learning curve for setup and full feature grasp
- Bulky size takes up considerable counter space
- Higher upfront cost compared to basic models
The Instant Pot Pro Crisp 11-in-1 Air Fryer and Electric Pressure Cooker Combo is a versatile and efficient kitchen essential, perfect for larger families and those looking to streamline meal preparation. While it may require some initial learning and comes with a higher cost, the appliance’s performance, convenience, and innovative design make it a standout choice for anyone seeking culinary versatility and efficiency.
Overall Score: 8/10
The Step-by-Step Instant Pot Cookbook offers 100 simple and delicious recipes for those new to cooking with an Instapot. The book includes photographs for every step, making it especially great for visual learners. The author, Jeffrey Eisner, has received high praise for his easy-to-follow instructions and the amazing flavors of his dishes. The book also provides details on how to use an Instant Pot, making it ideal for beginners. The durable book format features large print and colorful pictures. Overall, it's a great resource for anyone looking to get the most out of their Instant Pot.
Key Features
- 100 simple recipes
- Photographs for every step
- Detailed instructions for using an Instant Pot
Specifications
- Dimension: 7.40Lx0.90Wx9.10H
- Customer Rating: 4.7/5
Pros
- Visual instructions
- Easy-to-follow
- Great flavors
- Ideal for beginners
- Durable format
Cons
- Small photos
- Certain focus on cream cheese product
- Dessert section may lack interest for some
The Step-by-Step Instant Pot Cookbook is an excellent choice for those new to using the Instant Pot or cooking in general. With easy-to-follow instructions and delicious recipes, it provides a great resource for beginners. The visual aspect of the book makes it particularly useful for new cooks, and the author’s attention to detail ensures that the flavors of the dishes are exceptional. Although there are some minor drawbacks, the overall quality of the book makes it a valuable addition to any kitchen.
Overall Score: 8/10
The Instant Vortex Plus 6QT Air Fryer is a 6-in-1 kitchen appliance designed to air fry, roast, broil, bake, reheat, and dehydrate. It features advanced EvenCrisp technology for a perfect golden finish, along with a ClearCook window and internal light for easy monitoring. With replaceable air filters, this air fryer also has odor erase technology to eliminate unwanted smells. It offers customizable one-touch smart programs and fast preheating, making it ideal for quick, delicious meals. The non-stick, dishwasher-safe air fry basket and tray enable easy cleanup, and the temperature range of 95 to 400°F adds versatility. With a kitchen must-have, built-in safety features, and 100+ in-app recipes, this appliance is perfect for 4-6 servings.
Key Features
- 6-In-1 Functionality
- Watch your food cook
- Odor erase technology
- Even Crisp TECHNOLOGY
- One-Touch smart programs
- Fast preheating
- Easy clean-Up
- A kitchen must have
- Discover amazing recipes
- Safety features
Specifications
- Color: Stainless Steel
- Dimension: 13.78Lx11.81Wx13.39H
- Size: 6QT
Pros
- 6-in-1 functionality for versatile cooking
- Clear Cook window and internal light for monitoring
- Odor erase technology for eliminating smells
- Fast preheating and easy clean-up
- Built-in safety features and 100+ in-app recipes
Cons
- Occasional door misalignment during cleaning
- Possible temperature accuracy issues
The Instant Vortex Plus 6QT Air Fryer offers an array of versatile features, from 6-in-1 functionality to advanced technology and in-app recipes. While it may have a few minor drawbacks, its overall performance and ease of use make it a valuable addition to any kitchen.
- What is an Instant Pot?
- It's a super cool, high-tech kitchen appliance that does the job of multiple cooking gadgets all in one! It can cook things like rice, soup, yogurt, and even make homemade desserts.
- Why Should You Consider Buying an Instant Pot?
- It's a time-saver: With the Instant Pot, you can whip up tasty meals in a fraction of the time it would take with traditional cooking methods.
- It's versatile: You can use it to cook a wide variety of dishes, from soups and stews to steamed veggies and desserts.
- It's energy-efficient: The Instant Pot uses less energy than many other cooking methods, which could save you money on your energy bills.
- It's easy to use: Even if you're not a kitchen whiz, the Instant Pot's simple controls and pre-set cooking functions make it a breeze to use.
- Things to Consider Before Making a Purchase
- Size: Make sure to choose the right size for your needs. If you have a big family or like to cook in large batches, a larger Instant Pot might be the way to go. If you're cooking for just one or two people, a smaller model might be more suitable.
- Features: Different Instant Pot models come with different features, such as built-in smart programs, cooking presets, and even Bluetooth connectivity. Think about which features are important to you and make sure the model you choose has them.
- Price: Instant Pots come in a range of prices, so it's a good idea to set a budget and stick to it. Remember that a higher price doesn't always mean better quality, so do your research and make sure you're getting the best value for your money.
- Tips for Using Your Instant Pot
- Read the manual: It might not be the most exciting thing to do, but reading the user manual is crucial for understanding how to use your Instant Pot safely and effectively.
- Start with simple recipes: If you're new to using an Instant Pot, start with simple recipes like rice or soup to get the hang of how it works.
- Experiment with cooking times: Since the Instant Pot cooks food faster than traditional methods, you might need to adjust cooking times for your favorite recipes.
- Use the right amount of liquid: The Instant Pot needs liquid to create the steam that cooks your food, so make sure you're adding enough liquid to your recipes.
- Keep it clean: Regular cleaning and maintenance will help keep your Instant Pot in top shape and ensure it lasts for many delicious meals to come.
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overfilling: Don't fill your Instant Pot past the maximum fill line, as this can affect the way it cooks your food and even cause safety issues.
- Not using enough liquid: As mentioned before, using the right amount of liquid is crucial for successful Instant Pot cooking.
- Not letting the pressure release naturally: When your food is done cooking, follow the recipe's instructions for releasing pressure. Quick-releasing pressure can affect the texture and taste of your food.
- Not replacing worn or damaged parts: If you notice any wear and tear on your Instant Pot's sealing ring or other parts, replace them promptly to avoid safety or performance issues.
- Extra Accessories to Consider
- Steamer basket: Perfect for steaming veggies, fish, or even dumplings in your Instant Pot.
- Glass lid: Great for using your Instant Pot as a slow cooker or for keeping food warm.
- Silicone egg molds: These are perfect for making perfectly shaped eggs, both hard-boiled and as a mold for poaching eggs.
- Springform pan: Great for making cheesecakes or other desserts in your Instant Pot.
- Final Thoughts
- The Instant Pot can be a game-changer in the kitchen, but it's important to do your research and make sure it's the right fit for your cooking style and needs. With a bit of practice and experimenting, you'll be whipping up delicious meals in no time. Happy cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions about Instant Pot Review: The Must-Have Kitchen Appliance
You can cook a wide variety of dishes in an instant pot including soups, stews, rice, beans, meat, and even desserts like cheesecake.
Yes, the instant pot is designed with safety features such as a locking lid and pressure release valve to prevent any accidents while cooking.
The cooking time in an instant pot can vary depending on the recipe and the ingredients, but in general, it cooks food faster than traditional methods.
Yes, you can make yogurt in an instant pot using the “yogurt” setting. It’s a simple and convenient way to make homemade yogurt.
The size of the instant pot you should buy depends on the size of your household and how much food you usually cook. There are different sizes available, from 3 quarts to 8 quarts.