What exactly is an Instant Pot, anyway? This wonder machine is a programmable, electric pressure-cooker, which means it combines heat and pressure to cook food in about half the time of traditional methods. Most models also have settings for sear, sauté, steam, slow-cook, and simmer. You can also use the Instant Pot to cook rice, make yogurt, and walk your dog. OK, that last one was just wishful thinking, but the Instant Pot really can cook almost anything. Along with all those functions, though, can come a fair bit of confusion. We have a few tips for making sure the start of your pressure-cooking journey is as smooth as possible. If you recently acquired an Instant Pot, use these pointers to get started. If you’re still on the hunt for one, I personally use the 6-quart Duo Nova; large enough to fit a whole chicken, but not so big that it takes up all my spare counter space. If you’re regularly feeding four or more people, you might want to go with an 8-quart model. One safety matter worth noting: If using the “quick release” function (as opposed to “natural release,” which is more gradual), be very, very careful to keep your hands and face away from the valve (to avoid being burned by the power and heat of the quick release in pressure). Use quick release when the food you’re cooking relies on a specific time to cook properly, such as poached eggs. Feel free to enlist tongs for turning the valve, and wear an oven mitt. You also need to account for the time on the other end for the pot to release pressure and normalize before you can open it, which can take up to 30 minutes. RELATED: 6 Genius Ways You Can Use Your Instant Pot for Meal Prep I use my Instant Pot’s pressure cooking setting to make beans, rice, eggs, and a whole chicken for shredding, but I stick to the slow-cook method when I want to let the flavor develop more. Of course, when I inevitably forget to plan ahead, it’s incredibly helpful to have the pressure-cook feature to save dinner. RELATED: A Clear Breakdown of the Differences Between an Instant Pot, Pressure Cooker, Slow Cooker, and Crock Pot
