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10 Best Instant Pots
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Buying Guide for the Best Instant Pots
Choosing an instant pot can be a bit overwhelming given the variety of models and features available today. An instant pot is a versatile kitchen appliance that combines several functions such as pressure cooking, slow cooking, rice cooking, and more into one device. The right instant pot for you will depend mostly on your cooking habits, family size, and which features you think you'll use most often. Before making a choice, consider your kitchen space, the meals you often prepare, and whether you’d like to explore new cooking methods or keep things simple. Understanding the key specifications will help you find an instant pot that best fits your lifestyle.CapacityCapacity refers to how much food the instant pot can hold, usually measured in quarts or liters. This spec is important because it determines how much you can cook at one time. Small capacities (around 3 quarts) are ideal for singles or couples, medium (6 quarts) suits most families of 3-5, and large capacities (8 quarts or more) are best for larger families or meal prepping. Think about how many people you usually cook for and whether you like making extra for leftovers. Choose a size where your typical meals will fit comfortably without filling the pot to the brim.
Functions/ModesInstant pots come with different numbers and types of built-in cooking functions, such as pressure cook, slow cook, steam, sauté, rice, yogurt, and more. This matters because more functions mean more versatility, but it can also make the device more complex to use. If you like trying different recipes or want one pot to replace many kitchen appliances, choose a model with a broader range of functions. If you mainly want to pressure-cook or slow-cook, a simpler model with fewer modes might be better and easier to use.
Control PanelThe control panel determines how you interact with your instant pot. Some use simple buttons and basic digital displays, while others have more advanced touchscreens or programmable settings. A simple panel is easier for beginners and those who just want to get cooking quickly. More advanced panels allow for more customization but may take time to learn. If you want quick meal prep without fuss, stick with straightforward controls. If you like customization and programming delayed starts or special settings, an advanced panel may be worth considering.
Inner Pot MaterialThe inner pot is where your food cooks, and it’s usually made from stainless steel or has a non-stick coating. Stainless steel pots are durable, easy to clean, and safe for most cooking styles, but may require extra oil to prevent sticking. Non-stick coatings are easier for some foods and cleaning, but may wear out over time and need more careful handling. If you value longevity and don’t mind a bit more scrubbing, stainless steel is a good choice. If easy clean-up is more important for your lifestyle, consider a non-stick version, but be prepared to replace it if the coating degrades.
Safety FeaturesSafety features in instant pots are built to prevent accidents like burning, steam release issues, or overheating. These include pressure release valves, lid lock, overheating protection, and more. Most modern instant pots include multiple safety mechanisms, but it’s good to read up on which ones a model offers. If you are new to pressure cooking or have kids around, prioritize models known for robust safety systems so you can cook with peace of mind.
Included AccessoriesAccessories like steam racks, extra sealing rings, or ladles can come with your instant pot. While these extras are not essential, they can make certain recipes easier or help you get started right away. If you want to jump into more complex cooking like steaming or yogurt making, check what’s included so you don’t need to buy extra items separately. If you plan to use the pot mainly for basic tasks, accessories may be less critical.