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    Home » Real Food » Instant Pot » How to Use an Instant Pot (Instant Pot 101)

    How to Use an Instant Pot (Instant Pot 101)

    By Kristen Chidsey | 188 Comments | Published December 22, 2019 | Updated December 21, 2021 *This post may include amazon links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

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    Feeling overwhelmed by your new Instant Pot? Do NOT fear!! These tips will guide you on how to use an Instant Pot, turning you into an Instant Pot Master. This Instant Pot 101, is the ULTIMATE Beginners Guide to Electric Pressure Cooking.  Learn the jargon, the parts, and how the instant pot works.  Before long, the Instant Pot will surely become your new favorite kitchen appliance. 

    Feeling overwhelmed by your new Instant Pot? This beginner's guide will walk you through the essentials of using an electric pressure cooker and will leave you feeling confident and ready to conquer using your Instant Pot.

    Once you master the basics of using the Instant Pot, check out Instant Pot Recipes to get cooking and sign up for my top Instant Pot Secrets!

    Picture of Instant Pot with Text that reads Instant Pot 101 A beginners guide to electric pressure cooking.

    If you have recently been gifted or purchased an Instant Pot, chances are you are either feeling excited or completely overwhelmed.

    One look at the manual that came with the Instant Pot and you are feeling even more confused than when you first opened the box. It is really lacking in information!

    I have helped thousands of people put aside their fears and tackle cooking in their Instant Pot and I want to help you!

    How to Use an Instant Pot

    Using an Instant Pot is not hard. In fact, I have found it has made my life immensely easier, but it is a bit of a learning curve.

    First I will walk you through the basic Instant Pot parts and jargon. Then I will show you how to set cooking time and how to release pressure. After that, you will be well on your way to becoming an Instant Pot Master!

    And if you learn better through video, be sure to check out my YouTube Video!

    Instant Pot Parts

    Before we talk about HOW an instant pot works, let's break down the standard pieces and parts of the Instant Pot. That way you will know which piece is which.

    Inner Pot

    The stainless steel pot that fits inside the Instant Pot, is called the inner pot. It is removable for washing. And essential for cooking--do NOT operate your Instant Pot without the inner pot.

    Some people prefer to have two inner pots or a ceramic insert. Frankly, I think one stainless steel inner pot is sufficient unless you plan to make yogurt frequently. Then an extra inner pot helps out tremendously.

    Inner Pot for Instant Pot sitting next to Inner Pot.

    Inner Ring

    This is the silicone ring that fits on the lid of the Instant Pot that helps to seal in the pressure. It is removable and should be removed and washed thoroughly any time it gets dirty.

    The inner ring can cause the MOST issues when it comes to pressure cooking. You need to be sure it is always tightly inserted on the lid. If not, pressure will not be reached properly and you may experience a burn warning.

    If you notice any tears on your inner ring, or it becomes loose over time, be sure to immediately replace it.

    I personally like to have a set of inner rings and use one for savory and one for sweet dishes--that way my cheesecake won't taste like chili!

    Red Arrow pointing to inner ring on Instant Pot.

    Floating Valve and Shield

    The shield prevents food from getting trapped in the pressure release valve.

    The float valve is designed to be pushed up once there is sufficient pressure inside the cooker. Once pushed up, the silicone band seals the instant pot and the pin of the float valve serves as a lock, preventing the lid from being opened before pressure has released. The float valve will float back down as pressure is released, unlocking the lid from the Instant Pot.

    (And in case you misplace your Floating Valve, you can get an extra to fit your model on this here.)

    Arrows pointing to the Floating valve and shield on lid of instant pot.

    Condensation Cup

    This plastic cup collects any moisture or condensation that leaks out during the cooking process. It also collects moisture that may drip down from the lid once you open the Instant Pot. 

    It removes easily to be cleaned. Be sure to check it every once in a while to keep it from getting nasty.

    Plastic cup attached to Instant Pot to collect condensation.

    Stainless Steel Trivet

    Most Instant Pot models will come with a metal rack, often referred to as a trivet.

    This is used often for cooking things you do not want to be submerged in liquid, such as Instant Pot Baked Potatoes and Instant Pot Baked Sweet Potatoes It is also used for pot-in-pot cooking.

    Stainless Steel Rack for Instant Pot on white counter top .

    Using the Instant Pot

    Now that you know the parts of your Instant Pot, it is time to use your Instant Pot.

    I always suggest starting off by doing a water test. This is a way to get comfortable using the Instant Pot without wasting any actual food. It is quick and easy to do, so well worth the extra few minutes.

    After doing the water test, keep in mind the following steps whenever you use your Instant Pot.

    • Be sure your inner pot is secured into the base of your inner pot.
    • Always use thin, cold, liquid (water, broth, beer, juice, etc) to achieve and maintain pressure.
      • 3-Quart Instant Pot: ½ cup thin liquid
      • 6-Quart Instant Pot: 1 cup thin liquid
      • 8-Quart Instant Pot: 1 ½ cups thin liquid
      • 10-Quart Instant Pot: 2 cups thin liquid
    • Check to be sure that the sealing ring is attached securely to the lid and place the lid on the inner pot.
    • Be sure the vent knob is sealed.
    • Set the cooking time using manual or pressure cook to control the time yourself.
    • Remember it will take anywhere from 5 to 20 minutes for the Instant Pot to come to pressure. This is determined by how full the inner pot is.
    • Once the cooking time has started, it will count backward.
    • After the cooking time has elapsed the Instant Pot will default to holding the food warm. It will count upward showing how long since the cooking time has elapsed.
    • Based on the recipe's instructions, allow the pressure to release naturally or do a quick release of pressure.
    • After pressure has been released, it is safe to remove the lid and enjoy your recipe!

    Instant Pot Key Tips

    While the basic steps outlined above, will give you success when using your electric pressure cooker, they are not thoroughly explained.

    Below I break down the key aspects of using your Instant Pot in more detail, giving you even more confidence to use your Instant Pot as it is intended.

    Liquid is Essential in Pressure Cooking

    In order for pressure to build in a pressure cooker, there must be liquid, but not any liquid will do! You need to have thin liquid. Examples of thin liquids would be broth, wine, beer, juice, or water.

    Keep in mind that sauce, like tomato sauce or BBQ sauce, is thicker, and will need to be thinned out in order to prevent a burn notice.

    Never OVER fill the Instant Pot

    It is very important to note that the max fill line on the Instant Pot is not intended for pressure cooking or for cooking foods that expand, such as rice or beans.

    It is best to never fill the Instant Pot more than ⅔ of the way full for pressure cooking and only ½ full for rice and beans.

    What happens if you overfill the Instant Pot? First, it will take a long time to reach pressure and a long time to release pressure. It is also NOT advised to do a quick release if you did happen to overfill the Instant Pot, as that would result in a mess!

    Red arrows showing where to fill the instant pot to for pressure cooking.

    Instant Pot Functions

    At first glance at your Instant Pot, it looks like you can cook just about anything with a simple touch of a button. There is a function for Yogurt, one for multi-grain rice, regular rice, stew, beef, and poultry.

    It may be tempting to put in chicken, hit the poultry button, and walk away.

    DO NOT DO THIS!!!

    To rely solely on the pre-set cooking settings could very well result in over-cooked chicken, undercooked rice, or dried-out beef. These functions are set based on the AVERAGE cooking time and are just a starting point. Check out my Instant Pot Functions Post that tells you exactly how to use each and every function on your pressure cooker.

    Personally, I stick to using the saute function, the manual (or pressure cook) function, and the yogurt function.

    Close up of buttons on Instant Pot.

    How to Seal the Instant Pot

    In order for pressure to be reached, the Instant Pot needs to be well sealed.

    Therefore, it is crucial you assure that the inner ring is properly attached to the lid of the Instant Pot and you ensure your vent knob is pointed to the sealed position.

    If those two things are not done, pressure will NOT be trapped and your Instant Pot will not reach pressure to begin the cooking time.

    You will know that your Instant Pot is properly sealed when the float valve (red or silver depending on your model), when the pin raises to the upright position, the lid locks, and the timer begins to count down the cooking time.

    Having trouble with your float valve rising? Check out Reasons Your Instant Pot May Not Be Sealing.

    Showing the knob on an Instant Pot Lid to the Sealed position.

    How to Release Pressure

    After the cooking time has elapsed you may wonder how the pressure is released.

    You have two options, you can do a natural pressure release or a quick release of pressure.

    • Natural Pressure Release (or NPR) is when the pressure is slowly released on its own. This is when you leave your Instant Pot alone and allow the float valve to float down on its own. It is best to use a natural pressure release for meats, recipes with high starch (like rice or grains), and recipes with a high volume of liquid.
    • Quick Release (or QR) is when you manually turn the valve to "Vent" and allow the pressure that has been built up to release rapidly. This method is used for things like seafood or delicate vegetables.

    Important Tip for using Quick Release on your Instant Pot: Use a long handle of a wooden spoon to manually turn the valve from seal to venting AND STAND BACK to prevent yourself from getting burned by the steam.

    How to Determine Cooking Time

    Determining cook time on the Instant Pot is one of the most commonly asked questions I am faced with when it comes to using your Instant Pot.

    I have worked at length to create a guide that will help you convert your favorite recipes into Instant Pot recipes.

    Of course, you can follow recipes that have been tested by others as well--I experimented with baked potatoes and sweet potatoes over a dozen times before I nailed a consistent cooking time I could rely on.

    Or experiment yourself! Use my guide as a starting point and then through trial and error perfect a recipe to suit your needs and your Instant Pot.

    It is important to note that just like traditional cooking, you will need to account for altitude if living at higher elevations. I have an Instant Pot Altitude Chart to help with that!

    **An electric Pressure Cooker does not reach the same pressure a stove-top pressure does, so you will need to increase cooking time by a few minutes for an electric pressure cooker if the recipe was written for a stove-top pressure cooker. 

    Cooking Time is NOT amount of time recipe takes

    It is important to note that when planning your meals that you don't count on the pressurized cooking time as the amount of time it will take to complete the meal.

    When it comes to pressure cooking, you need to account for the time it takes to come to pressure and the time it takes to release pressure.

    Therefore the total time for pressure cooking is

    Time to Come to Pressure + Cooking Time + Time for Pressure to Release = Total Time 

    The amount of time needed for a recipe to come to pressure and time to release pressure varies based on recipes. 

    Now you are ready to browse through my Instant Pot Recipes and get cooking. And remember, I am always happy to answer any questions you may have! Simply leave a question below in the comments and I will get back to you ASAP!

    My Must Have Instant Pot Accessories

    I am often asked what are my favorite Instant Pot Accessories, I try to keep things super simple, but these are my favorite accessories and why you may need them.

    • 7 inch springform pan: Great for Instant Pot Cheesecake or Instant Pot Lasagna.
    • Clear Lid: this is great for using your instant pot as a slow cooker or for making yogurt.
    • Cake Pan: I use this for my Instant Pot Breakfast Casserole, but it also works for Instant Pot Lasagna.
    • An Egg Tray: Perfect for holding eggs when making Instant Pot Eggs.
    • Heat Safe Bowl: An essential for making Instant Pot Oatmeal.
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    About Kristen Chidsey

    Hi, I am Kristen, creator of A Mind "Full" Mom. I believe that making a wholesome family meal does not need to be hard or expensive! I love nothing more than to share with you delicious solutions for your hungry family.

    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    1. Linzi

      May 12, 2021 at 10:41 am

      Hello Just got my instapot. I feel stupid but the instructions to me aren't clear. Adding liquid must be in the removable pot NOT the instant pot itself correct?

      Reply
      • Kristen Chidsey

        May 12, 2021 at 11:28 am

        That is correct Linzi! Let me know if you have any other questions.

        Reply
    2. Roxanne Cunningham

      March 27, 2021 at 11:58 am

      I am going to use you Corn Beef recipe. I have 2.26# FROZEN Corn Beef. I do not see a seasonings packet in it? Do I need seasonings? I want to Instapot this for tonight's dinner, can it be cooked frozen and for how long? Your recipe says 85 min. so I do not know how much longer. I also plan on using 2 cups of beef broth no beer, no carrots either. I have never cooked anything for this long.

      Reply
      • Kristen Chidsey

        March 27, 2021 at 12:20 pm

        Hi Roxanne! If it is labeled corned beef, it may already be soaked in heavy seasoning brine. Adding additional pickling spices will add tremendous flavor, but not necessary. Because it is frozen I would cook for 100 minutes. Enjoy!

        Reply
    3. Lori Patton

      January 14, 2021 at 4:49 pm

      I’m making my first meal in Instant Pot, your sweet and sour chicken. I’m not sure about the meaning of put pot on sauté and add cornstarch ... does the lid go back on the pot after it’s added?? When I pushed the sauté button nothing happened but the “stay warm” button is lighted and a new amount of time is now showing? Hope I haven’t ruined my masterpiece!

      Reply
      • Kristen Chidsey

        January 14, 2021 at 5:01 pm

        Hi Lori! You need to hit cancel to stop the stay warm feature. Then hit saute again and mix in the cornstarch mixture.

        Reply
        • Debbie Andrews

          March 14, 2021 at 12:47 am

          I put the top on my Insta pot and it keeps saying off even after I have pushed pressure cook how do I make it cook

          Reply
          • Kristen Chidsey

            March 14, 2021 at 8:14 am

            Hi Debbie, can I ask what model you have? For most models, you want to be sure your sealing ring is on and your vent knob is closed. Hit pressure cook and then use the plus/minus button to set the time. It will take a few seconds and then you should see the word "On" I would test with the water test to be sure your pot is working correctly too.

            Reply
    4. Tina

      January 08, 2021 at 3:48 pm

      I have a 5.89lb chicken- can it make it by in my 6 qt?? I didn’t realize it was that big and want to try it, just don’t want a mess.

      Reply
      • Kristen Chidsey

        January 08, 2021 at 4:08 pm

        Try placing it in the pressure cooker while still in the packaging and see if your lid will fit on it. I have had one that size fit, BUT it depends on how thick the cavity is. If it does not fit, here is my recipe for Instant Pot Rotisserie Chicken, and if it does not fit, here is my Oven Rotisserie Chicken.

        Reply
    5. Pam

      January 01, 2021 at 3:17 pm

      I just got my instant pot for christmas. I have been reading recipes. They say to seal the instant pot but the book that came with my pot says it automatically seals is this something new.

      Reply
      • Kristen Chidsey

        January 01, 2021 at 4:08 pm

        That is the model you have. No worries about having to turn the knob to the sealed position.

        Reply
    6. Kate

      December 29, 2020 at 6:35 pm

      I've had my IP Duo for over a year, and used rarely. Just didn't seem worth all the effort. Resuts varied greatly despite my best efforts. I found YOU today while investigating how to cook dry beans fast so we can have chili tonight. Followed your easy instructions exactly and they came out PERFECTLY. Started your "instruction 101" and everything is starting to click in my brain. Excited to try out more recipes! BTW, your readers may find it helpful to place their IP on a cookie sheet on top of the stove so you can use the hood vent extraction to remove steam from the kitchen and "trap" anything that may unexpectedly escape especially on QR. Just be sure it's level and secure.

      Reply
      • Kristen Chidsey

        December 30, 2020 at 7:26 am

        Hi Kate! I am so glad you found ME 🙂 I am so happy to help people learn to use their instant pots and not be fearful of them. I love the tip for a cookie sheet as well--great one! I hope you find many more recipes to enjoy here and reach out with questions anytime.

        Reply
    7. Ashley

      December 28, 2020 at 8:21 am

      I just got my Instant Pot yesterday and you are correct about being overwhelmed! It’s not even out of the box yet but I knew I needed to do some research on where to start. Thank you for all this information, I had no idea about most of it. I’ve only ever used a crock pot before and see how this is very different and more involved.

      Reply
      • Kristen Chidsey

        December 28, 2020 at 8:39 am

        Happy to help Ashley! Reach out with questions anytime!

        Reply
    8. Anita Patterson

      December 06, 2020 at 1:59 pm

      Thank you so much. I just got my IP and I am finding out that I love it. With your help I am sure to enjoy it, understand it and cook great food.

      Reply
      • Kristen Chidsey

        December 07, 2020 at 6:53 am

        YAY! I am so excited for you to get started using your Instant Pot! Please reach out anytime with any questions!

        Reply
    9. Sheila Loew

      November 24, 2020 at 8:49 am

      Thank you for sharing your information and recipes

      Reply
      • Kristen Chidsey

        November 24, 2020 at 10:08 am

        You bet Sheila 🙂

        Reply
    10. Samantha

      November 06, 2020 at 2:19 pm

      I just got an IP and went looking for how to make baked potatoes in it and came across your site. Thank you so much- you demystified so many questions I had! Book marking this for sure!!!

      Reply
      • Kristen Chidsey

        November 06, 2020 at 3:26 pm

        I am so happy to help! Please reach out with questions anytime!

        Reply
        • Samantha

          November 06, 2020 at 6:27 pm

          Oh-I do have a question- is it supposed to release some steam while heating up or cooking?

          Reply
          • Kristen Chidsey

            November 07, 2020 at 6:56 am

            It can release a tiny bit--as long as it does not last more than 1 minute, you should be fine. I find that some models (8 quart models especially) do release a bit more steam.

            Reply
      • Diane Stulberg

        November 08, 2020 at 2:55 pm

        Just got one. I need to familiarize myself how
        to use it.

        Reply
        • Kristen Chidsey

          November 09, 2020 at 6:39 am

          Well, reach out with questions any time Diane!

          Reply
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